Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound is one of few breeds developed in America. It's prowess as a raccoon hunter is unmatched. History Historians have poured through records to determine the Black and Tan Coonhound's ancestry. It is believed that the Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound, the Talbot Hound, and the Bloodhound are all sires of this breed. The Talbot Hound had been in England since the 11th century and was a well-known hunter. When bred with the Bloodhound and the Virginia Foxhound, those hunting instincts were combined with an extreme sense of smell, making the Black and Tan Coonhound one of the best sight hound breeds. Both scouts and Native American fighters owned these dogs in the 1700's, when it was the first breed to be recognized as separate from the American Foxhound. The American Kennel Club recognized the dog as its own breed in 1945, and it is the only coonhound to be part of the Hound group in that organization. The other Coonhounds the Bluetick Coonhound, the English Coonhound, the Plott Hound, the Treeing Walker Coonhound, and the Redbone Coonhound are all in the Miscellaneous category or not recognized at all. These dogs have been used in raccoon hunting (thus the breed name), as well in the hunting of large game. However, recent bans on hunting antlered animals with dogs have relegated this canine to solely coon hunting and being a companion. Appearance The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large dog measuring between 25 and 27 inches at the withers for males and 23 to 25 inches at the withers for females. Average weight is between 65 and 130 pounds, depending on the size and sex. The torso has a boxy appearance since it is about as long as the dog is tall. This gives the Black and Tan Coonhound a solid body. The legs are well muscled and powerful. As for the head, the skull is usually between 9 and 10 inches long in the males; females measure between 8 and 9 inches long. The eyes can be anything from hazel to dark brown. The ears hang low and are very long. Combined, these features create a friendly and eager expression. Black and Tan Coonhounds have a short, dense, and glossy coat that is black and tan. In general, the body is mostly black. Tan markings appear avoe the eyes, on the cheeks, across the chest, and down the legs. Temperament This breed has a friendly demeanor. It gets along well with other dogs, since it's bred to work in a pack. The Coonhound can also be outgoing and playful. If they are reserved at all, it is around strangers, though they are always easy to approach. Aggression is very rare. Health Issues The average lifespan of the Black and Tan Coonhound is between 10 and 12 years, which is average for a purebred dog of this size. Common health problems include ear infections, hip dysplasia, ear cancer, and eye problems. Like most dogs, old age and cancer are a common cause of death. However, this breed is generally health. Pet Care Owners should exercise their Black and Tan Coonhounds with daily walks or runs and regular playtime. Obedience training is necessary, as with all dogs. Owners should be especially vigilant when out on walks, since this breed is driven by instinct to chase small animals up trees and bark at them. Grooming needs are minimal because the short coat doesn't need constant brushing. What Owners Have to Say Most owners commend this dog for its laid-back nature and friendliness. They are also loved for their family-oriented nature. Is this the right dog for you? If you are looking for a large, athletic dog, then the Black and Tan Coonhound may be a good choice. This dog is very energetic, so it will love going outdoors, playing games with the family, and running loose in the backyard. Upkeep is minimal because the short coat doesn't need taken care of. Plus, if this dog is exercised properly, it can be very gentle and relaxed while indoors with the family. This is a good match for large household or families with multiple pets, especially with other dogs. However, the presence of small animals, such as cats, may be troublesome. Black and Tan Coonhounds, like all Coonhounds, instinctively chase small animals. They may run after family cats and bark at them. Coonhounds can be rowdy, especially when young, making them hard to control. If they catch a whiff of an interesting scent, they may disobey your commands and run off to track the trail. They will chase moving objects, including bikers and joggers, if they are left unchecked. If they aren't allowed to run and burn off excess energy, these dogs can be extremely destructive. They will find an outlet for their pent-up energy, even if it means chewing on furniture and digging at the carpets. Owners should supply a lot of toys to prevent this from happening. Other less desirable traits include a distinctive odor, like all hounds, and a very loud bark. Black and Tan Coonhounds can be very loud and it may be hard to silence them, especially if they've spotted a squirrel or other animal. Shedding, stubbornness, and other typical "doggy"� traits are also a concern. For most owners, the Black and Tan Coonhound's positive attributes trump the negative ones. However, these owners are all aware of training practices and other tricks to eliminate bad behaviors. Do your research before buying a hound and you'll end up satisfied, too.

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