Everyone wants a pet that’s friendly and playful. If you’re looking for such a pet, then Black and Tan Coonhound is the perfect dog breed for you to choose.
This breed originates from the USA and makes an excellent companion. Whether you want a travel partner or a walking partner, this breed won’t disappoint you.
About The Breed
If we talk about the exact origin of the Black and Tan Coonhound, it can be traced way back to a thousand years ago from the Talbot hound’s bloodline.
The mountain people of the Smokies and the Ozark might be behind the creation of this majestic breed.
When he notices any prey, he will put his nose to the ground and devote all his attention to them. Raccoons are primarily his prey, but deer, mountain lions, and bears are also on his list.
The Black and Tan are one of the six coonhound breeds and the most recognizable. Their distinctive coloring and size make it easy to recognize them.
These dogs can easily pick up and follow a smell regardless of how faint it is. This ability gave them the title of the cold nose and made them hunter’s favorite companions.
These dogs are filled with stamina making them great jogging partners. The Black and Tan Coonhounds are simple creatures; even a daily walk is enough to keep them satisfied.
As long as they get something to sniff and follow, they are good to go. These dogs choose comfort over anything and will always try to snatch your space on the sofa.
Black and Tan Coonhound Dog Breed History
Also known as Scenthounds, the Black and Tan Coonhounds are the descendants of the Talbot hounds (kings and nobles used them as hunting dogs).
The English Foxhound is the direct ancestor of this breed. In the 1700s, this breed was developed in the USA.
They get their long ears, size, scenting ability, and coloring from the bloodhounds and foxhounds found in their family tree.
The main purpose behind their breeding was to tree possums and raccoons, but they are capable of much more.
Their versatile personality made them a top choice among colonial settlers who originally bred them to “trail and tree.”
This term means to find his target and tree them until the hunter gets there. They were recognized in 1945 by the American Kennel Club.
Grand Mere Big Rock Molly was the first Black and Tan registered by this club. Despite having so many fine qualities, this breed is not a famous companion dog.
Black and Tan Coonhound Dog Breed Job Card/Overview
| Breed Name | Black and Tan Coonhound |
| Other Name | American Black and Tan Coonhound |
| Dog Breed Type | Hound dogs |
| Origin | USA |
| Parent Breeds | Foxhounds and Bloodhounds |
| Height | 23-27 inches |
| Weight | 75-100 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Coat Type | Dense, Short coat |
| Common Colors | Coal-black |
| Grooming Needs | Medium |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Temperament | Responsive, Loyal, Smart, Passionate |
| Apartment Living | Not recommended for apartment living |
| Pet-Friendly | Yes |
| Health Concerns | Canine hip dysplasia, Ectropion, and hypothyroidism |
| Overall Health | Healthy |
| Intelligence Level | High |
| Trainability | Easy |
| Energy Level | High |
| Activity | Active |
| Litter Size | 8 puppies |
What To Know
• They are known for their friendly, loyal, and determined nature.
• Coonhounds require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.
• Their short coat is low-maintenance, needing occasional brushing and bathing.
• Consistent training is essential to harness their hunting instincts and ensure good behavior.
Characteristics
Adaptability
Black and Tan Coonhounds exhibit moderate adaptability. Their natural hunting instincts make them excel in outdoor environments, but they can adapt to indoor living with proper exercise.
They thrive in homes with yards but can adapt to apartment living if exercised regularly.
Socialization helps with their adaptability, making them comfortable around other pets and people. They require a consistent routine to adapt well to family life.
Adaptability
Adaptive to Apartment Living
Suitable for New Owners
Sensitivity Scale
Comfortable Being Alone
Comfortable with Cold Weather
Comfortable with Hot Weather
Friendliness
Black and Tan Coonhounds are known for their warm and friendly nature. They’re not just hunting experts but make excellent family companions too.
Their love for people, including children, is evident through their affectionate demeanor.
They often form strong bonds with their owners, making them loyal and devoted pets. Their friendly disposition and sociable character make them a great addition to any loving household.
All About Friendliness
Lovable with Family
Kid-Friendly
Dog-Friendly
Frank with strangers
Personality
The Black and Tan Coonhounds were originally bred to work with other hounds, so they bond well with other canine buddies.
These dogs act reserved in front of someone new, but they will never be vicious or shy in front of strangers.
Having a hunting background, this breed gets headstrong sometimes and wants to do things their way.
This behavior looks adorable when they are cute little fur balls, but as they grow up, this behavior can get dominant.
If you do consistent and patient training with them, you can get this negative behavior under control.
The Black and Tan Coonhounds might grow in size very soon, but they don’t mature early. You can expect to have a naughty baby by your side for at least three years.
They have easy-going personalities, but as soon as they get on a scent trail, they become very serious. These scenthounds can easily find their way back home because of their strong nose.
Temperament
Friendly with Children
Black and Tan Coonhounds are known for their friendly disposition towards children. These affectionate dogs are patient and gentle, making them excellent companions for families.
Their loyalty and protective nature make them watchful over kids, while their playful spirit ensures they enjoy interactive games and activities.
Coonhounds are an ideal choice for those seeking a family-friendly pet that harmoniously coexists with children.
Amicable to Other Pets
Black and Tan Coonhounds are typically amicable to other pets. They possess a friendly and social nature, making them good companions for other animals.
These hounds often thrive in multi-pet households when introduced at a young age.
However, their strong hunting instincts can lead to chasing smaller animals, so supervision and early socialization are key to ensuring harmony with other pets in the home.
Barking Tendencies
Black and Tan Coonhounds are known for their vocal nature. They have strong barking tendencies, a trait stemming from their history as hunting dogs.
When they catch an interesting scent, they tend to bay or howl. While this can be an asset during hunts, it might be a challenge for city living.
Proper training and socialization can help manage their barking tendencies and ensure a quieter coexistence with your neighbors.
Possibilities of Staying Alone
Black and Tan Coonhounds are generally social dogs, but they can adapt to staying alone with the right approach.
Provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation before leaving. Toys and puzzles can keep them engaged.
Gradually increase alone time to prevent separation anxiety. Ensure a secure space, and consider a companion pet if possible.
Regular exercise and love are key to a content Coonhound when left alone.
Pros And Cons Of The Black and Tan Coonhound dog Breed
Pros
- Excellent scent-tracking abilities.
- Great family-friendly temperament.
- Low grooming and shedding.
- Strong and athletic breed.
- Loyal and protective nature.
Cons
- High energy and exercise needs.
- Frequent barking and howling.
- Prone to weight gain.
- Can be stubborn and independent.
- Requires consistent training and socialization.
Male Vs. Female Attitude
The Black and Tan Coonhounds are friendly dogs regardless of their gender.
Appearance
General Appearance
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a striking breed with a sleek, muscular body. Its coat is shiny black with tan markings on its face, chest, and legs.
The breed has expressive, soulful eyes and long ears that frame its face. The tail is long and tapering.
These dogs have a dignified and alert appearance, reflecting their strong hunting heritage. Their elegant build and distinctive coloring make them stand out in the canine world.
Coat Color
Anyone can guess; even a child can guess the coat color of a Black and Tan Coonhound as it’s clearly in their name.
Yes, the most common colors in this breed are coal black and tan. These dogs have a short and dense coat that protects their skin while they run around chasing a smell.
You’ll notice rich tan markings on their chest, muzzle, back thighs, and legs. Their toes look like they are being drawn with a black pencil.
Use a firm bristle brush or a hound mitt to brush your pet’s coat. Brushing helps to distribute the natural oils of the skin and remove dead or loose hair.
Keep a regular check on their long and elegant ears to avoid infections.
Nail care and dental hygiene are mandatory to maintain your dog. Brushing their teeth twice or thrice a week will prevent bad breath and keep their teeth healthy.
Shedding
Despite having a dense and short coat, the Black and Tan Coonhounds shed a lot. You should increase brushing at this time to remove dead hair.
Size
The Black and Tan Coonhounds are not only strong but also very huge. Their doll eyes will almost make you forget how big they are. These dogs can grow tall anywhere between 25-27 inches. Their size makes them a good choice for being watchdogs.
Health
Generally, the Black and Tan Coonhounds are considered a healthy breed. But you know, like all breeds, this breed can get some health issues too.
- Cataracts
- Hip dysplasia
Health And Grooming Requirements
Shedding Quantity
Drooling Capability
Effortless to Groom
Overall Health
Capable of Gaining Weight
Size
Maintenance And Care
These scenthounds are pack dogs, so they can adjust in a kennel only if it’s warm and dry and they have another pet to give them company.
They can survive outdoors as long as the weather is not too cold. If they are going to be your only pet, you should consider them keeping inside with you, so they don’t feel alone.
If you have set some rules to keep your dog outside, make sure it’s done only during the day, and you take them inside when the sun sets.
A big fenced yard should be in your house as these dogs will chase anything that smells interesting.
A fenced yard means your pet won’t roam anywhere he likes. You can also microchip them and give them name tags, as these dogs won’t stop wandering.
The Black and Tan Coonhound will chew anything it sees as they don’t know what’s good or bad for them.
Keep your garbage bins in a place not reachable to them. Leftover food shouldn’t be put on the table because they’ll eat in a whiff.
Grooming
Grooming a Black and Tan Coonhound is straightforward due to their short, dense coat. Regular brushing with a soft bristle brush helps remove loose hair and keeps their coat shiny.
Bathing is necessary only when they get exceptionally dirty. Pay attention to their ears; clean them regularly to prevent infections.
Keep their nails trimmed and maintain good oral hygiene. Coonhounds are low-maintenance in the grooming department, making them an excellent choice for busy pet owners.
Food And Nutrition
You should give your Black and Tan Coonhound a diet of 3-5 cups of high-quality dog, dividing it into two meals a day.
This is only a recommended amount. A dog’s diet depends on his age, size, health, environment, and allergies, among other factors.
These factors can entirely change the diet of one dog from another, even puppies from the same litter or gender.
The first thing you should do after getting this breed as your pet is to take them to a vet.
A vet will help to determine the dietary requirements of your pet and make a unique diet plan that will keep your dog healthy.
Exercise And Activity Level
This breed has lots of stamina that you will get tired of while exercising with them. Take them on daily walks, and they will be happy.
Physical Requirements
Energy range
Intensity
Exercise Requirements
Capable for Playfulness
Trainability
Black and Tan Coonhounds are trainable dogs, but they have a strong independent streak due to their hunting background.
They are intelligent, eager to please, and respond well to positive reinforcement methods. Consistency, patience, and socialization are key to their training success.
With the right approach, these hounds can be taught obedience and even excel in activities like tracking and agility, making them well-rounded companions.
Trainability
Effortless to Train
Smartness
Capable for Mouthiness
Tendency to Attack Prey
Urge to Howl or Bark
Wanderlust Ability
Children and other pets
Despite their size, the Black and Tan Coonhounds behave patiently with kids. These are pack dogs, so they bond well with other pets and canine buddies. Socialization starting from puppyhood, helps your pet to be on its best behavior.
Conclusion
These dogs go anywhere their nose takes them, so never put them off leash.
Black and Tan Coonhound is a remarkable breed, blending history, loyalty, and hunting prowess. With their friendly temperament and minimal grooming needs, they make great family pets.
However, their exercise requirements and consistent training are crucial for their well-being.
This breed’s rich heritage and unwavering loyalty make them a unique and wonderful addition to the right home.
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FAQs On Black and Tan Coonhound Dog Breed…
Where do the Black and Tan coonhound dog breeds come from?
Black and Tan Coonhounds originated in the United States, specifically in the Appalachian region. They were developed by crossbreeding American and European hounds to create an exceptional hunting dog for tracking raccoons and other game.
What is the best diet routine for a Black and Tan Coonhound?
A balanced diet of high-quality dog food, tailored to their age and activity level, is best for a Black and Tan Coonhound.
How much exercise is required for a Black and Tan Coonhound?
Black and Tan Coonhounds require at least 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including brisk walks and active playtime to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
I am a passionate animal lover with a lifelong commitment to pet care. With over a decade of experience as a pet owner, I’ve nurtured a variety of furry and feathered friends, from cats and dogs to birds and reptiles. I possess a deep understanding of their unique needs, behavior, and health. My mission is to share my knowledge and insights to help fellow pet enthusiasts provide the best possible care for their beloved companions.