Black and tan coonhound

Breed Description

The Black and Tan Coonhound is directly descended from one of the oldest dog breeds and represents a classic hunting dog. Coonhounds were developed in the USA by crossing Bloodhounds and Black and Tan Virginia Foxhounds. Members of this breed hunt by scent and are primarily used for raccoon hunting.

These dogs are lighter and faster than their ancestors, the Bloodhounds, and belong to the foundational type of hounds. Breeds of this type were depicted in ancient rock paintings from the Stone Age. The earliest written references to similar dogs, such as Xenophon’s “KinД”getikos,” written 2400 years ago, describe hunting with dogs resembling the Coonhound. In 1576, Queen of England’s physician, John Caius, also described these dogs in his book “On English Dogs.”

The Black and Tan Coonhound is primarily a working dog, capable of enduring harsh winters, summer heat, and challenging landscapes. Their main purpose is to pursue and bay raccoons. They hunt exclusively by scent.

Previously in the USA, raccoons were valued for their fur and meat, but hunting them was not easy, as these animals are quite cunning and mostly nocturnal. Therefore, dogs were used in hunting that could not only track but also outsmart the creature. Raccoon hunting competitions remain a popular spectacle in the southern states of the USA today. A raccoon is tied to a tree, and several Coonhounds are released to track it. The winner is the dog that finds and bays the raccoon first. The Black and Tan Coonhound was officially recognized by the FГ©dГ©ration Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1945 but is rarely bred in Europe.

These hardworking dogs enjoy the company of their families and have a great sense of humor. They make excellent home companions: at home, they are calm, affectionate, and playful. Their unique physical traits and good-natured character make them very appealing. The dark markings on their black fur form distinctive “pumpkin seeds” above their expressive eyes.

In Europe, Black and Tan Coonhounds are extremely rare, but they are fascinating, hardworking, and good-natured partners. With these dogs, one can form a great team for hunting, working in mantrailing, or as rescue dogs. The price of a puppy ranges from 35,000 to 50,000 rubles.

Appearance

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an elegant hunting dog of medium to large size with a long, high-held tail. At first glance, it resembles a Bloodhound or St. Hubert Hound, but it looks slimmer compared to the Bloodhound. In Russia, this breed is extremely rare, while in the southern states of the USA, it is widely used for tracking game by scent.

The resemblance to the Bloodhound is not coincidental, as it is one of the ancestors of the Coonhound, and their working functions are similar. Both types of dogs have excellent scenting ability and work in packs. The Coonhound specializes in hunting raccoons, which is where its name comes from: “raccoon” means raccoon. In German, its official name is “Schwarz-Lohfarbener WaschbГ¤renhund” (Black and Tan Raccoon Dog).

The Coonhound has short, dense fur, allowing it to withstand harsh conditions. The fur color is black with bright tan markings, making it easily recognizable. Its long, drooping ears are set far back. The Coonhound has large, soft eyes with a friendly expression.

The breed possesses good musculature and moderate bone structure. Males are more muscular and heavier compared to females. Coonhounds are friendly and affectionate, and they interact well with children.

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an American original breed and the largest of the six types of Coonhounds. The weight range is about 34-45 kilograms, and the height of males varies from 63 to 68 cm, with females being slightly shorter. The expected lifespan of the Black and Tan Coonhound, according to the American Kennel Club, is between 10 to 12 years.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The black and tan coonhound has a long, proportionate head with smooth lines. The skull is moderately wide and slightly rounded. The expression of the head is serious and attentive, emphasizing the hunting nature of the breed.

Морда

The face of the coonhound is long and square, with well-defined jaws. The nose is large, black, and has wide nostrils, perfectly suited for tracking game.

Уши

The ears are long, thin, soft to the touch, set low, and hang close to the head. They help collect scents while hunting, which is characteristic of the breed.

Глаза

The eyes of the kunhaund are oval-shaped, medium-sized, and usually dark brown or hazel in color. Their expression is attentive, friendly, with a hint of wariness.

Зубы

The teeth are strong with a scissors bite. The jaws are powerful, which highlights the working qualities of the breed. Healthy teeth are important for hunting work.

Корпус

The body is elongated, muscular, with a deep chest that ensures endurance. The back is straight and strong, while the loin is short and powerful.

Конечности

The limbs are strong, straight, and have sturdy joints. The paws are oval with dense pads, which helps the Kunhounds move confidently over rough terrain.

Хвост

The tail is long, set high, and remains vertical in motion. It helps the dog maintain balance and maneuverability while working.

Шерсть

The wool is short, dense, and tightly adheres to the body. It provides protection from weather conditions and requires minimal maintenance.

Окрас

The breed's coloration is black with bright tan markings above the eyes, on the muzzle, chest, legs, and under the tail. This contrasting coat emphasizes the elegance and working qualities of the coonhound.

Character

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a loyal hunting dog specializing in tracking work. With great enthusiasm, it follows the scent of its prey, remaining silent until it spots its target, at which point its voice becomes loud and clear. However, its hunting skills are not limited to raccoons; the Coonhound also successfully hunts boars and cougars, demonstrating persistence and determination that have been valued for centuries.

This hunting instinct should not be confused with training difficulties. The Black and Tan Coonhound is intelligent and easily trainable when provided with clear guidance and a consistent approach. It is important to remember that it is, by nature, a pack and hunting dog that requires constant activity. With the right outlets, such as mantrailing, training goes smoothly. A bored and idle Coonhound can cause problems in the home, so it needs regular and lengthy outdoor walks.

These dogs allow their owners to experience nature more fully due to their keen senses. The combination of a friendly disposition, resilience to stress, and lack of aggression makes them excellent companions that help slow down the pace of modern life. While walking, it’s important to keep in mind its hunting instincts. If the Coonhound catches the scent of a rabbit or raccoon, it may become restless and try to run away.

Black and Tan Coonhounds generally get along well with children. While they can be a bit loud around little ones, their sociability and attachment to family make them great companions. It’s essential to teach children how to interact properly with dogs to ensure safe and pleasant engagement.

As pack animals, Coonhounds enjoy the company of other dogs and easily find common ground without requiring a strict hierarchy. They are not timid and, although they love to play and have fun, they become exceptionally focused when they start working on a trail.

The Black and Tan Coonhound has a balanced and friendly character. It is sociable and gets along well with other dogs and people, making it an excellent working hound capable of effective teamwork.

Care and Maintenance

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a loyal and energetic hunting dog that requires special care and living conditions to maintain its health and happiness. Below are key aspects of caring for and maintaining this breed.

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an extremely active breed that needs significant physical exercise. Daily walks, runs, and outdoor play are essential for maintaining their physical condition and mental health. These dogs require at least 40-60 minutes of active exercise every day. It’s best to divide this time into several short sessions that include walking, running, and playing.

These dogs have strong hunting instincts, making them excellent companions for hunting and tracking work. If you are not using your Coonhound for hunting, it is important to provide alternative forms of activity, such as scent work or rescue dog tasks. This helps satisfy their natural instincts and prevents boredom and frustration.

The Black and Tan Coonhound has a short, shiny coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. To keep their coat clean and healthy, it is advisable to brush the dog weekly with a medium brush, rubber glove, or grooming mitt. During shedding periods, typically occurring in the spring and fall, brushing should be done more frequently-2-3 times a week-to reduce the amount of loose hair.

The Black and Tan Coonhound should be bathed as needed to prevent unpleasant odors. Special attention should be given to their ears, as they are prone to wax buildup and may become sources of infection. It is recommended to regularly check their ears and clean them with a solution recommended by a veterinarian.

Feed the Coonhound a professional diet divided into two meals a day. The average food amount is between 3 to 5 cups of kibble, depending on the dog’s age, weight, and activity level. It is important to monitor their diet to avoid obesity. Always provide the dog with fresh, clean water.The Black and Tan Coonhound is an intelligent and easily trainable dog, but it may show stubbornness. Training should be consistent and based on positive reinforcement.The Black and Tan Coonhound thrives in a home with a spacious, well-fenced yard. These dogs love to explore their surroundings, so it’s important to create a safe and protected space for play and training. Inside the home, Coonhounds behave calmly and friendly, making them great pets for families with children and other dogs.Coonhounds are social animals that appreciate the company of people and other dogs. They require plenty of attention and interaction to be happy. If left alone for long periods, they may become anxious and destructive. It’s important to spend enough time with them, providing engaging activities and toys to prevent boredom.The Black and Tan Coonhound is a loyal and energetic breed t

Training and Education

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a true hunting breed that requires significant physical activity outdoors. Its excellent sense of smell and persistence in tracking scents make it an outstanding candidate for search and rescue work or tracking. These dogs are highly intelligent, but they can easily become distracted if they encounter an interesting new scent.

Sometimes they may display stubbornness, providing the owner an opportunity to show patience and find an effective approach to working with them. Coonhounds are used to spending long hours in pursuit of their prey, and without regular activity, they may become frustrated, disobedient, and destructive, often accompanied by loud barking.

Regular physical exercise is essential for both the dog’s well-being and your peace of mind. The Black and Tan Coonhound requires about 40-60 minutes of daily exercise, such as play sessions in the yard or long walks. Ideally, owners should divide exercise into several short sessions throughout the day, including morning and evening walks, jogs, or bike rides, along with one or two short play sessions.

In public places, these dogs should be kept on a leash. As hounds, they have a strong instinct to chase any small animal they detect. Yards must be equipped with high and secure fences, and walks should be conducted on a leash. Their strong hunting instinct and tendency to wander mean they may chase interesting scents and run away. A leash will help control the coonhound in such situations. Even in the yard, the area should be securely enclosed, otherwise the dog may attempt to escape.

Large breeds with deep chests, like the Black and Tan Coonhound, are prone to bloat, a potentially fatal condition related to digestion. This is most common if the dog eats before or after exercise. It’s best not to feed the dog an hour before or two hours after intensive activity.

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a typical pack dog, which makes it very social. It feels best in the company of other dogs. Its passion for work becomes clear when hunting. The Black and Tan Coonhound is independent, dog-oriented, and goal-driven. As a family dog, it is suited only if it has a job. In its free time, it will be happy to be a cuddly “couch potato.” It is very attached to its owner, but is not suitable for novices. It’s important to train with it professionally and daily for good upbringing and education. It is best transported in a suitably large kennel in the car. With this foundation, you can engage in various activities and travel together. The best breeders offering pedigree puppies can be found at Zoonica.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a black and tan coonhound puppy is a responsible and important decision that requires careful consideration. This breed is known for its energy, intelligence, and strong hunting instincts, so it’s crucial to take multiple factors into account when selecting a puppy. Here are some steps and tips to help you choose a healthy and suitable black and tan coonhound puppy.

Before you start looking for a puppy, thoroughly research the breed. Learn about their temperament, behavioral traits, and needs to ensure that this breed fits your lifestyle and expectations.

Find a reputable breeder who specializes in black and tan coonhounds. A good breeder should have positive reviews and be willing to provide all necessary information about the puppies and their parents. Visit several breeders to compare their living conditions and breeding approaches.

When visiting a breeder, pay attention to the environment in which the puppies are kept. They should grow up in a clean, safe, and stimulating space. Make sure the puppies have enough room for play and socialization, as well as access to fresh water and quality food. Inspect the pens or areas where the puppies and their mother are housed.

Check the health of the puppies. A healthy puppy should be active, curious, and playful. Observe the condition of its coat, eyes, ears, and nose. The puppy should show no signs of infections, parasites, or other health issues. Ask the breeder for veterinary documents verifying vaccinations.

Get to know the puppy’s parents. The breeder should provide information about the pedigree, including titles, achievements, and tests for genetic diseases.Every puppy has its unique temperament, and it’s important to choose one that matches your expectations and lifestyle. Watch the puppies’ behaviors in a group and individually. The puppy should not be overly fearful or aggressive. Look for a puppy that shows healthy curiosity, sociability, and playfulness.Don’t hesitate to ask the breeder questions about the breed, puppy care, and specific traits. A good breeder will always be ready to answer all your questions and provide recommendations for caring for and raising the puppy. Also, inquire about guarantees and options for returning the puppy if any issues arise.Before bringing the puppy home, prepare a safe and comfortable space for it. Purchase all necessary accessories, such as food and water bowls, toys, bedding, a leash, and a collar. Ensure you have a plan for training and socializing your puppy.The first few days in a new home will be stressful for the puppy, so try to create a calm and comfortable environment. Give the puppy time to adjust to the new conditi

Health and Illnesses

The Black and Tan Coonhound, known for its energy and outstanding hunting skills, is generally a healthy and resilient breed. Their muscular build and vitality contribute to maintaining excellent physical condition. However, like any dog, Coonhounds can experience specific health issues that require attention and care. It is essential to be aware of potential diseases to ensure your pet has a long and happy life.

One common issue in this breed is hip dysplasia. This genetic condition occurs when the joint develops improperly, which can lead to pain and mobility problems. Symptoms include limping, difficulty standing, and reluctance to run or jump. Treatment may involve lifestyle and exercise changes, and, in severe cases, surgery.

Large breeds like the Black and Tan Coonhound are prone to bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This condition happens when the stomach fills with gas and may twist, disrupting circulation and requiring immediate medical attention. Symptoms include restlessness, abdominal swelling, drooling, and vomiting without bile. GDV can be prevented by feeding the dog smaller portions several times a day and avoiding vigorous activities right after eating.

Due to their long, floppy ears, Coonhounds are susceptible to ear infections. It is important to regularly check their ears for odor, redness, and discharge. Routine cleaning with ear solutions recommended by a veterinarian can help prevent infections and keep the ears clean.

Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure, which can lead to blindness if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Symptoms include redness of the eyes, tearing, decreased vision, and changes in pupil size. Treatment involves medication and, in some cases, surgery.

Black and Tan Coonhounds can suffer from various skin conditions, such as allergies and dermatitis. These issues can arise from food allergens, external irritants, or parasites like fleas.Regular veterinary visits can help identify potential and hidden problems early on. A vet will be able to conduct necessary examinations, vaccinate the dog, and provide care recommendations.The Black and Tan Coonhound is an energetic and friendly breed that requires attentive care and regular health check-ups. Being informed about potential diseases and consulting a veterinarian in a timely manner will help maintain your pet’s health at a high level.