The Black and Tan Coonhound, which hails from the United States, is a versatile dog that excels in both the show ring and the field. They're a great playmate, jogger, or walker, and a great bed warmer at home, too.
Although this breed has a strong hunting instinct, it is rarely considered a family dog because of its specialised skills and strong hunting instinct. New dog owners who are unfamiliar with the breed's intensity will have a tough time adjusting to its needs. For those who appreciate the hound's independence and sense of humour, they may be a wonderful companion and at home tend to be easy-going, playful, and gentle.
Find out everything you need to know about the Black and Tan Coonhound dog breed right here.
Highlights
- Living in the city with a dog is not recommended because of the howling and barking.
- Smells may easily sway me. The only way to stop him from following someone else is to put him on a leash first.
- Coonhounds are prone to roaming if given the opportunity, so it's important to keep an eye on them at all times. A few miles down the road, they'll look up and realise that they've been gone for a long time.
- In addition to running or jogging, this dog is happy with 30 to 60 minutes of daily activity and walks that allow for lots of sniffing time.
- When young, this breed is lively and bouncy, but it gets along well with youngsters.
- If given the opportunity, will put on weight quickly.
- The fact that they may be so stubborn and self-reliant makes training them difficult.
- It is impossible to keep a Coonhound quiet and orderly if it is bored. He is in desperate need of human company and instruction.
- Obedience training is highly encouraged and is likely to lead to a stronger bond with your dog.
- The Black and Tan Coonhound is not a dog that should be purchased from a puppy broker or pet store. There are no guarantees that the dog was born to healthy parents from reputable breeders. Make sure that the puppy's parents have been checked for genetic illnesses relevant to the breed before you buy them.
- To avoid being duped by breeders who say that their dogs are disease-free, inquire about the health concerns they've encountered. Inquire about previous Coonhound owners to determine if they're satisfied with their new pet. It could spare you a lot of heartache in the long run if you do your homework now.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a de-shedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
70 to 100 pounds
Lifespan
10 to 12 years
Height
23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder
History
The Black and Tan Coonhound, a legitimate American breed, is likely the result of a mix between the Bloodhound and the Foxhound, notably the black and tan Virginia Foxhound. The Appalachian, Blue Ridge, Ozark, and Smoky Mountains were the primary breeding grounds for the Black and Tan Coonhound, which was employed to hunt raccoons and bears in the region's difficult terrain. As with their Bloodhound forebears, they trailed with their noses to the ground, but at a little faster rate. Even while they could follow any creature, they preferred to follow raccoons and opossums at night, and would often do so. A treed quarry would bring out the dogs in force.
Coonhounds were the first breed of dog to be recognised by the United Kennel Club in 1900. The only coonhound breed recognised by the AKC for decades, the breed is currently popular as a pet. The AKC first recognised the breed in 1945.
Personality and Temperament
The black and tan coonhound is a workhorse that is attentive, perceptive, loyal, and enthusiastic. Some of his friends may be more reserved around strangers than he is.
The black and tan may appear a little rambunctious because he was bred to work alone. This breed may be more difficult to train than others. Also, he's probably a howler, too. The black and tan's breeding and innate working methods are reflected in this commotion.
Even though the Black and Tan Coonhound isn't your usual family member, it still makes an excellent companion animal. It's easy to live with this dog because he is mellow, friendly, peaceful, and non-obtrusive. Even in the presence of a strong fragrance, this breed may have a tough time turning away from it in the wild. The Coonhound is a robust, independent, and stubborn dog, as befitting a dog of its ancestry. Children may find them too autonomous for their own good, even if they are gentle and forgiving. They are wary of meeting new people. They have the potential to howl and bay.
Care
Playing in the yard or going for an exhilarating jog are just some of the ways you can keep your coonhound active every day. It's safe to assume, based on its pedigree, that this breed will be drawn to every small animal that crosses its path. A coonhound can be trained to hunt virtually any animal thanks to its powerful nose and versatility, making it an excellent choice for anybody interested in hunting as a pastime.
Health
The Black and Tan Coonhound, like many breeds, is susceptible to various health issues. Black and Tan Coonhounds can be affected by the following:
Hip Dysplasia (HD)
In this disorder, the thigh bone does not fit securely into the hip joint, and it is hereditary. The pain and lameness of one or both of a dog's rear legs can indicate a condition known as hip dysplasia.
Arthritis can occur in a dog as he gets older. The Orthopaedic Foundation for Animals or the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program provide X-ray screenings for hip dysplasia (Penn HIP). Hip dysplasia should never be bred into a dog population. When a child is growing rapidly due to a high-calorie diet or if they are injured when leaping or falling on slick floors, hip dysplasia can be exacerbated.
Hypothyroidism
Thyroid hormone deficiency is common in this breed due to a genetic predisposition to an endocrine disorder.
Cataracts
Cataracts impair vision because of the opacity of the lens of the eye. The dog's eye(s) will appear clouded. It's common for dogs to develop cataracts as they become older, and the condition can be surgically removed to improve their vision.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Nutrition
The Black and Tan Coonhound, despite its modest 70-pound weight, can carry a remarkable quantity of food. Because of their massive size and high level of activity, Coonhounds thrive best on a high-protein diet that includes meat from animals such as chicken or cattle. Make sure these are the first-listed components on the kibble you purchase, and we also recommend supplementing this food with high-quality lean meats from time to time.
In order to prevent bloat caused by quick eating, you should divide their meals into two smaller ones each day. These dogs are known for their appetites, and you'll need to regulate their food consumption carefully to keep them from becoming overweight. There should be no wheat or soy filler in the food and no artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives in the three to five cups of dry kibble your dog eats each day. At all times, clean, fresh water should be available.
Grooming
The short, dense coat of the black and tan coonhound requires weekly brushing with items like a brush or rubber grooming glove in order to eliminate the dead hair before it ends up all over your home. Grooming on a regular basis will help keep their skin and coat healthy as well.
Basic grooming requirements for blacks and tans are also included. Because they are so active, these dogs should have their nails clipped frequently so that they don't injure themselves. Dogs of all breeds should have their teeth washed at least twice a week using a canine toothpaste. Cleaning and inspecting this breed's ears on a regular basis is essential to preventing infections.
Exercise
Only 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day is all this dog requires. Although this dog has a high prey drive, it should always be walked on a strong leash and the owner of a black and tan coonhound needs a tall, robust fence. Your coonhound was developed to sniff out scents, so allow it to do so while out for a stroll.
Training
The black and tan coonhound is a loyal and clever dog, but they can be difficult to teach because of their independence. Dogs like this aren't obedient to their masters at all costs, but they can be trained.
It is recommended that this breed be socialised and trained as a puppy since once they've learnt something, they'll be more likely to do it that way. Consistent training from the beginning is quite essential."
Children and Other Pets
Kids love Black and Tan Coonhounds because they are kind and tolerant. To be clear, dogs and young children should never be left alone together. Both dogs and their owners should be closely monitored at all times to prevent any nipping or teasing.
Dogs like Black and Tan Coonhounds like the companionship of other canines. In the event that no one is home during the day, it's great if your dog has at least one canine companion to keep him from becoming bored and engaging in destructive behaviour.
Cats and rabbits can also get along well with them if they're raised in the same household. Don't leave them unattended with other pets unless you are certain that they get along. Be sensible about this.
Puppies
The noses of Black and Tan Coonhound puppies are immediately used to get an understanding of their environment. You’ll want to train and socialise them early on to new people, animals, and places, so put a slack leash on around its neck so it won’t feel constrictive.
You should anticipate to pay between $500 and $1,800 for a Black and Tan Coonhound, depending on where you live, the breeder, and the availability of the dog. For this reason, we strongly advise you to shop around for a reputed breeder before making your puppy purchase, as they will almost certainly charge you more.
It’s also a good idea to meet the parents and have a good look around the breeding facilities beforehand. Breeders who take pride in their work will show it in the dogs' and facility's condition, and they should also provide a health guarantee. Because they care so deeply about their puppies, many breeders will even offer to take them back and find them a new home if you can't handle them.
Dog breeds similar to Black and Tan Coonhounds
The Bloodhound, the Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound, and the Treeing Walker are all similar to this breed.
Bluetick Coonhound
For those who want a leaner-looking dog, this breed has black and brown markings with blue ticking.
Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound
Black and Tan Coonhounds descended from this breed, which is also an American hunting dog. Similar in temperament to its ancestor, it has a gentle disposition.
Treeing Walker
Another American breed, this dog is a coonhound. With a white undercoat, it's covered in a coat of black and tan markings.
