Black and tan coonhound
The Black and Tan Coonhound was developed in the American South from Bloodhound and Foxhound stock to trail and tree raccoon and opossum by scent alone, working at night and often alone rather than in a pack.
It stands 58 to 69 centimetres, weighs 29 to 45 kilograms and lives ten to twelve years, with a short dense black coat and tan markings, and long heavy ears. It is easy-going and affectionate at home and utterly committed on a trail, with the deep bawling voice its work requires. Like the other coonhounds it is a poor match for suburban life, and for the same reason: the noise and the nose.
- Origin
- American South, from Bloodhound and Foxhound stock
- Size
- 58–69 cm; 29–45 kg
- Lifespan
- 10–12 years
- Coat
- Short dense black with tan markings
- Voice
- A deep carrying bawl, used freely
- Health
- Hip dysplasia, ear infections, bloat
Related: Bloodhound · American English coonhound · Black Russian terrier · Bluetick coonhound
3 black and tan coonhound photos, newest first
Living with a black and tan coonhound
Expect volume. The bawl is loud, deep and carries a very long way, and it is used whenever the dog finds something interesting.
They need serious exercise and, ideally, scent work. Tracking and nosework satisfy the drive; a walk around the block does not.
The long ears drag through everything and trap moisture. Clean and dry them weekly at minimum.
Deep chest means bloat risk. Learn the signs — unproductive retching, swelling, restlessness — and treat it as the emergency it is.
Recall is unreliable once the nose engages. Secure fencing and long lines. Ask for hip scores.
General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.
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