The American English Coonhound

Background

The American English Coonhound traces its ancestry from Foxhounds who were brought to the Southern United States. The breed developed from the hunting “Virginia Hounds” during the 17th and 18th centuries and was refined over time by Robert Brooke, Thomas Walker, and if you can believe it -- George Washington. They were used to hunt raccoons at night and American Red Foxes during the day.

The American English Coonhound was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2011.

Sizing up

  • Weight: 45 to 80 lbs.
  • Height: 21 to 27 inches
  • Coat: Short to medium in length
  • Color: There are three distinct patterns: redtick, bluetick, or tricolored which includes black, tan, blue, brown, red, and white
  • Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

What’s the American English Coonhound like?

The American English Coonhound makes for a great house pet because he’s generally quiet, loves to lounge around, and requires less than strenuous amounts of exercise. Coonhounds do have a tendency to chase prey and other small animals so keep an on eye on them outdoors. A strong prey drive might also render them unsuitable for households with other small pets such as hamsters or guinea pigs. They are generally good with children and are very loyal to their family.

Training should start immediately because if not trained right away the Coonhound can become destructive and harder to train later. They do require that you to have a little more patience during training than other breeds might.

The American English Coonhound is fairly easy to groom and a weekly brushing with a hound mitt or a rubber brush will keep his coat clean and shiny. He does shed, but if you keep up with the brushing you’ll remove the dead hair instead of finding it around the house and on the furniture!

Health

The American English Coonhound is generally a healthy breed but watch for any of the following:

Takeaway Points

  • The American English Coonhound needs to be trained the day you bring him home.
  • The American English Coonhound would make a great companion for someone who likes to go hunting.
  • The American English Coonhound follows his nose and if left outside in an unfenced yard he might dart off after prey.
  • The American English Coonhound makes a great watch dog.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.