American English Coonhound
Profile
The American English Coonhound is a versatile hunting dog known for its endurance and determination. They have a melodious bark and are skilled at tracking and treeing raccoons, as well as other game. They are friendly, loyal, and make great family pets.
Characteristics | Details |
Dog Breed Name | American English Coonhound |
Breed Group | Hound Group |
Origin | United States |
Alternative Names | Treeing Walker Coonhound, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bluetick Coonhound, Redbone Coonhound |
Suitable Weather | Moderate to cool temperatures. |
Avg. Weight | 45-65 pounds |
Avg. Height | 22-27 inches |
Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
Coat Color | Tricolor |
Coat Type | Short and dense coat |
Shedding Frequency | 60-90 days. |
Activity Level | High |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Grooming | Moderate |
Dog Cost | $500 – $800 |
Table Of Contents
History
The American English Coonhound is a breed that originated in the United States in the 17th and 18th centuries. They were developed by crossing English Foxhounds with various other hound breeds to create a versatile hunting dog that excelled at tracking and treeing raccoons. Today, they are still primarily used for hunting and tracking game.
Highlights
Known for their excellent hunting abilities, especially in tracking and treeing raccoons.
A highly energetic and athletic breed, requiring plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Friendly and sociable, making them great family pets that get along well with children and other animals.
They have a distinctive howl and bay that can be heard for miles, making them excellent for hunting purposes.
Their short coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing and occasional baths.
Appearance
The American English Coonhound is a medium to large-sized breed with a muscular build. They typically weigh between 45-65 pounds and stand around 21-27 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sleek, athletic appearance with a short coat that comes in a variety of colors including red, blue, tri-color, and white and black. Their long, floppy ears and expressive eyes give them a friendly and alert expression.
Personality & Behaviour
The American English Coonhound is a friendly, outgoing, and energetic breed known for its hunting skills and endurance. They are intelligent and independent, with a strong prey drive and a love for the outdoors. This breed is loyal and affectionate towards their family members, but may be reserved with strangers.
They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. American English Coonhounds are known for their distinctive baying howl and are often used for hunting raccoons and other small game.
TemperamentAmerican Cocker Spaniel
Compatibility with Children | Good with Children |
Compatibility with other Dogs | Good with Other Dogs |
Compatibility with Strangers | Highly Friendly |
Playfulness | Highly Playful |
Protectiveness | Moderate Protective |
Trainability Level | Highly Trainable |
Energy Level | High |
Barking Level | Moderate |
Need of Exercise | High |
Compatibility with Children
The American English Coonhound is known for being friendly, outgoing, and energetic, making them a great match for families with children. They are patient and tolerant, making them well-suited for households with young kids. Their playful nature and love for outdoor activities make them a fun companion for children to play with.
However, it is important to supervise interactions between the dog and children to ensure that both parties are safe and comfortable. With proper training and socialization, the American English Coonhound can be a wonderful family pet.
Compatibility with other Pets
American English Coonhounds are generally friendly and sociable dogs that get along well with other pets, including dogs and cats. They have a strong pack mentality and enjoy the company of other animals.
However, due to their strong prey drive, they may not be the best fit for households with small animals like rabbits or birds. Proper socialization and training from a young age can help ensure that American English Coonhounds coexist peacefully with other pets in the household.
Best Compatible Dogs with American English Coonhound
1. Beagle
2. Bloodhound
3. Black and Tan Coonhound
4. Treeing Walker Coonhound
5. English Foxhound
Care Requirements
The American English Coonhound is an active and energetic breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need daily walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard to burn off their energy. Mental stimulation is also important for this intelligent breed, so puzzle toys and training sessions are recommended.
Regular grooming, including brushing their short coat and cleaning their floppy ears, is necessary to keep them looking and feeling their best. Additionally, they thrive on human companionship and will do best in a home where they are included in family activities.
Monthly Maintenance Cost
The American English Coonhound is a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. However, they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Monthly maintenance costs for an American English Coonhound may include:
- Food: $30-$50
- Veterinary care (including vaccinations and check-ups): $50-$100
- Grooming supplies (such as brushes and shampoo): $10-$20
- Training classes or toys: $20-$30
- Heartworm and flea prevention medication: $15-$30
Overall, the monthly maintenance costs for an American English Coonhound can range from $125 to $230.
Health
The American English Coonhound is a healthy and active breed, but like all dogs, they are susceptible to certain health issues. It is important for owners to be aware of these common health problems and take necessary precautions to prevent them.
Some of the common health issues seen in American English Coonhounds include:
- Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition in which the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to arthritis and pain.
- Ear infections: Coonhounds have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to infections.
- Obesity: These dogs are prone to gaining weight if not given enough exercise and a balanced diet.
- Bloat: A serious condition in which the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow to vital organs.
To prevent these health issues, owners should:
- Provide regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
- Feed a balanced diet to prevent obesity.
- Clean and check ears regularly to prevent infections.
- Schedule regular vet check-ups to catch any health issues early.
By being proactive in their care, owners can help ensure their American English Coonhound stays healthy and happy for years to come.
Food & Feeding
The American English Coonhound is a high-energy breed that requires a balanced diet to maintain optimal health and energy levels. It is important to feed your Coonhound a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for active breeds. Look for a food that contains a good balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support their overall health.
Feeding your American English Coonhound should be done in two meals a day to prevent bloating and aid in digestion. The recommended amount of food will vary depending on your dog’s age, size, and activity level. As a general guideline, adult Coonhounds typically require 2-3 cups of high-quality dry dog food per day, divided into two meals.
It is important to monitor your Coonhound’s weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to prevent obesity. Additionally, always provide fresh water for your dog to drink throughout the day.
Regular exercise is also important for the American English Coonhound to help maintain their physical and mental well-being. Consult with your veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations for your individual dog.
Fun Facts About American English Coonhound
The American English Coonhound is descended from English Foxhounds that were brought to America in the 17th and 18th centuries.
This breed is known for its incredible endurance and stamina, making them excellent hunting companions for long treks through the wilderness.
American English Coonhounds have a distinctive baying howl that they use to communicate with their owners and other dogs while out on the hunt.
These dogs are highly intelligent and independent, but they also have a strong desire to please their owners, making them relatively easy to train.
The American English Coonhound is a versatile breed that excels in a variety of dog sports and activities, including agility, obedience, and tracking.
Cost
The average cost of an American English Coonhound ranges from $500 to $1,000. Prices can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, and location. Some may be priced higher for show quality or proven hunting abilities. Adoption fees can range from $50 to $300.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the history of the American English Coonhound breed?
The American English Coonhound breed is descended from English Foxhounds that were brought to America in the 17th and 18th centuries. They were bred specifically for hunting raccoons and other small game, and have since become popular as a versatile hunting and tracking dog.
2. What is the temperament of the American English Coonhound?
American English Coonhounds are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are highly energetic and love to be active, making them great companions for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. They are also known for their intelligence and loyalty.
3. How much exercise does an American English Coonhound need?
American English Coonhounds are high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They should be given at least an hour of vigorous exercise each day, such as running, hiking, or playing fetch. Without enough exercise, they may become bored and destructive.
4. Are American English Coonhounds good with children and other pets?
American English Coonhounds are generally good with children and other pets, especially if they are socialized from a young age. However, they have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for households with small pets like cats or rabbits. It’s important to supervise interactions between the Coonhound and smaller animals.
5. How much grooming does an American English Coonhound require?
American English Coonhounds have short, dense coats that are easy to maintain. They should be brushed regularly to remove loose hair and prevent matting. They may need occasional baths, especially if they get dirty while out hunting or playing. Their ears should also be checked regularly for signs of infection.
