BLACK AND TAN COONHOUND
APPEARANCE
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a powerful hunting dog. This dog has a large oval head with low set ears, smooth skin over its face and round hazel to dark brown eyes. Its expression is eager, friendly and alert. Their coat is short and dense. The color of the coat is black with tan markings on the muzzle, chest, and legs. The weight of the Black and Tan Coonhound is around 65-100 pounds, and the height is around 21-27 inches.
PERSONALITY
This breed is highly intelligent, loyal, obedient, and quite adept at problem solving. Easygoing and generally good natured, the Black and Tan Coonhound is a dog with a lively nature and a very curious streak. The dog should not be allowed to run without a leash or the benefit of a good fence, as it may chase after scents. If left alone for too long it may bay and howl. Beware of drool.
TRAINING
Coonhounds have a reputation for being difficult to train. Most coonhounds are very food oriented and will do almost anything for a treat. Sometimes willful, it requires ongoing, firm training. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, patience, and consistency. They display talent in agility, tracking, and hunting.
EXERCISE
An energetic and boisterous breed, the Black and Tan Coonhound needs daily vigorous exercise and stimulation. They enjoy securely leashed walks and make excellent jogging and hiking companions. Daily exercise including walks and runs are highly recommended. The Black and Tan Coonhound, bred as a working dog, cannot lie still for a long time.
SOCIALIZATION
These dogs are good with children and generally with other pets, although they can be dominant with other dogs. They do best in a home with older considerate children. This breed typically gets along well with other dogs but is not recommended for a home with cats or other small household pets. Their reaction around strangers can vary from being reserved to being friendly depending on his personality.
LIVING CONDITIONS
This breed is not recommended for apartment or city dwelling. They do best in a secluded rural setting where they can safely romp and roam freely or in a home with a large securely fenced yard. They need a large area outside for them to play in, as they are highly energetic.
GROOMING
An occasional brushing is all that takes. Bathing or dry shampooing should be done when necessary. However, regular attention should be paid to the ears and eyes to keep them healthy. Black and Tan Coonhounds have a tendency to drool so regular wiping of the face is recommended.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Black and Tan Coonhound is around 10-12 years. This breed is prone to Hip and elbow dysplasia and eye problems, one being Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
HISTORY
This breed originated in the United States, and in 1945 they were recognized as a Hound. The Black and Tan Coonhound is a scent hound used to hunt down deer, stag, mountain lion, bear, cougar and most commonly, raccoon. The Black and Tan Coonhound was registered with the AKC in 1945.
