Read About Coon Hound

Coon Hound and everything you need to know about it is contained in this article. Specialized breeds developed for specific hunting of unique game in region specific hunting grounds, these dogs make surprisingly good family pets, though for everyone.

Coon Hound - Dog Type Facts

1. Type Description:

   Coonhounds are true American Hounds bred exclusively to hunt game and grounds unique to America.

2. Varieties:

   There are six types of Coonhounds -- American English Coonhound, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bluetick Coonhound, Plott Hound, Redbone Coonhound, Treeing Walker Coonhound.

3. AKC Group:

   • Black and Tan Coonhound -- Hound Group • Bluetick Coonhound -- Listed in Foundation Stock Service • Plott Hound -- Miscellaneous Class • Redbone Coonhound -- Miscellaneous Class • Treeing Walker Hound -- Listed in Foundation Stock Service • American English Coonhound - Listed in Foundation Stock Service

4. Popularity:

   These dogs are very popular as hunting dogs, but they are slow to gain favor as family pets.

5. History:

   In 1659, Robert Brook brought to America the first pack of Foxhound. All the Coonhounds with the exception of the Plott owe their ancestry to these foxhounds. The foxhounds were then bred to develop coonhounds to hunt raccoons and other quarry unique to America.

6. Physical Traits:

   All coonhounds share common physical traits like athletic structures, lean muscle, tapering tails, upturned look, hanging ears, excellent noses, straight forelegs and strong hind legs.

Coon Hound - Dog Type Defining Characteristics

1. Shared Characteristics:

   These share exceptional hunting capabilities, excellent nose for following trails, unparalleled stamina, greater endurance, unfailing devotion, high intelligence and extreme courage.

2. Training:

   Training these hounds range from medium to difficult as most coonhounds are strong minded and like to make individual decisions. Early, consistent and firm training is required. Some also demand much socialization.

3. Child Friendly:

   Many are child friendly, but some like Black and Tan Coonhound may not be suitable for small children.

Coon Hound - Dog Type Concerns

1. Benefits:

   Assured loyalty, easy going behavior, friendly demeanor and ability to play good watch or guard dogs are the major benefits.

2. Liabilities:

   These dogs are not for all. Hunting skills are inherent and they are prone to chase any fast moving creatures. Apartment living and unleashed urban life will wreck havoc on both themselves and neighboring pets. This mistake should never be committed. These are not the dogs that should be chosen because the pups are 'so cute'.

3. Health Issues:

   Though all are known to be healthy, some may suffer from hip troubles, PRA, eye troubles and ear infections. Always examine them closely after every hunting expeditions for any tears, bleeding wounds, thorns, scratches, ticks or other injuries.

4. Specific Care Needs:

   These dogs need firm handling and regular vigorous exercise. Also train them for leashing.

5. Special Household Needs:

   Tall fencing and medium to large yards are a must for these creatures. Provide some shelter in the yards.

Coon Hound - How to Choose a Dog Type

1. What to Look for:

   The temperament of these dogs should be balanced between easy going family living and fierce hunting instincts. The coat should be smooth and eyes shining clearly.

2. Supplies:

   All regular dog needs are needed here.

3. Expense:

   The buying cost of puppies range from $150-650 depending on the breed you want. But trained hunting dogs can be very expensive.