Black and Tan Coonhound
AKC & CKC Hound Group
Is This the Right Breed for You?
✔ Excellent Match For
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, hikes, or scent work activities
- Homes with secure fencing where a determined hound can't escape
- Families who don't mind (or even enjoy) a vocal, "singing" companion
- Experienced dog owners who understand scent hound independence
• Incredible nose: bred for trailing and will follow scents for miles.
• Affectionate nature: forms strong bonds with family members.
• Generally good with children when properly socialized.
✖ Consider Carefully If
- You live in an apartment or have noise-restricted housing
- You want an off-leash reliable dog in unfenced areas
- You prefer a quiet dog or have neighbors close by
- You're away from home for long hours regularly
• Famous baying: their deep, musical voice carries and they use it often.
• Escape artists: will follow scents over fences if not properly secured.
• Prone to boredom: needs mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors.
Owner Suitability
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a determined, vocal hunter with a heart of gold. Success depends on providing adequate exercise, secure containment, and tolerance for their signature baying. Their independence requires patient, consistent training.Stats:
- Height: 23-27 inches
- Weight: 65-110 pounds
- Coat: Short, dense coat that's weather-resistant
- Colors: Deep black with rich tan markings above eyes, on muzzle, chest, legs and breeching
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
Origin & History
The Black and Tan Coonhound is an American breed developed in the 18th century from crosses between Bloodhounds and black and tan Foxhounds. Bred to track and tree raccoons and other game, these dogs were essential hunting companions for early American settlers. Their exceptional scenting ability and cold nose (ability to follow old trails) made them invaluable for night hunting.
The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1945 and remains one of the few all-American dog breeds. While still used for hunting today, many Black and Tan Coonhounds have transitioned to family life, though they retain their strong hunting instincts and distinctive baying voice.
With their striking black and tan markings and gentle expression, these hounds combine working ability with a friendly, easygoing personality that makes them excellent companions for active families.
| Traits: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy: Needs daily exercise to stay happy | ✓ | ||||
| Easy To Train: Intelligent but can be stubborn; motivated by food and praise | ✓ | ||||
| Shedding: Moderate; short, dense coat; steady year-round shedding | ✓ | ||||
| Grooming: Low maintenance; weekly brushing and occasional baths | ✓ | ||||
| Family Dog: Gentle and affectionate with family, good with children | ✓ | ||||
| Watchdog: Will alert bark but generally friendly | ✓ | ||||
| Beginner Friendly: Not recommended; stubborn & high prey drive | ✓ | ||||
| Prey Drive: Very high; strong hunting instincts | ✓ | ||||
| Barking: Frequent baying, especially when on scent | ✓ | ||||
| Good with other dogs: Pack-oriented; good with other dogs if socialized | ✓ |
Health Concerns:
- Hip Dysplasia: Common in large breeds
- Ear Infections: Due to long, hanging ears
- Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid gland
- Bloat (GDV): Life-threatening stomach torsion
- Eye Problems: Including ectropion and entropion
- Obesity: Can lead to joint problems if not managed
Please check the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) and parent breed clubs for health information.
Glossary of general canine health conditions.