Black & Tan Coonhound - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Large

Height: 58 - 68 cm (23 - 27 inches)

Weight: 23 - 34 kg (50 - 75 lb)

Life Span: 12 years

Grooming: Reasonable

Exercise: Demanding

Feeding: Demanding

Temperament: Protective and keen workers

Country of Origin: United States

AKC Group: Hound

Other Names: American Black and Tan Coonhound

Temperament:

The Black and Tan Coonhound is patient, good-natured, loyal and intelligent. Black and Tan Coonhounds are passionate and dedicated workers that require firm and on-going training. They are best suited to older and considerate children as they can play rough. They can be aggressive towards other unknown dogs and are generally cautious with strangers. Black and Tan Coonhounds are protective pets and make good watchdogs.

Grooming:

Weekly brushing is necessary to keep the coat looking healthy and shiny. Black and Tan Coonhounds need to have their long ears checked regularly and kept clean.

Exercise:

Regular exercise is essential for these natural hunting dogs. Black and Tan Coonhounds are best suited for energetic families or hunters who can take them out regularly. These active dogs are ideal for farms and should be taught at an early age not to wander.

History:

The Black and Tan Coonhounds have evolved from the Bloodhound, Irish Kerry Beagle and the foxhound (in particular the Virginia Foxhound of the 1700s). It is also thought that Black and Tan Coonhounds are related to the 12th century Talbot Hound. This breed is best known for it's raccoon hunting skills, but has also been successful hunting other types of game such as stag, bear, opossum, mountain lion and deer. The Black and Tan Coonhound was officially recognized in 1945.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Well-proportioned, alert and powerful.

Color: Black with tan markings.

Coat: Short, sleek and dense.

Tail: Strong and carried at a right angle to the back when in action.

Ears: Set low, long and hanging in graceful folds.

Body: The length of the body is the same or slightly greater than the height. The back is level, strong and powerful and the ribs are full and well-sprung. The chest reaches to at least the elbows.

Additional Comments:

Black and Tan Coonhounds are likely to howl if left alone for long periods of time.

Black and Tan Coonhounds are one of the most highly specialized breeds with their exceptional ability to track raccoons and opossums. Once these dogs have their game cornered up a tree they change the tone of their voice and stay by the tree barking until the hunter arrives.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/black_and_tan_coonhound/