Facts and Information on the Black and Tan Coonhound Dog Breed

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. 

Breed NameBlack and Tan Coonhound
Other NameAmerican Black and Tan Coonhound
Dog Breed TypeHound dogs
OriginUSA
Parent BreedsFoxhounds and Bloodhounds
Height23-27 inches
Weight75-100 pounds
Life Expectancy10-12 years
Coat TypeDense, Short coat
Common ColorsCoal-black 
Grooming NeedsMedium 
HypoallergenicNo 
TemperamentResponsive, Loyal, Smart, Passionate 
Apartment LivingNot recommended for apartment living
Pet-FriendlyYes 
Health ConcernsCanine hip dysplasia,  Ectropion, and hypothyroidism
Overall HealthHealthy 
Intelligence LevelHigh 
TrainabilityEasy 
Energy LevelHigh 
ActivityActive 
Litter Size8 puppies

Breed Characteristics

Adaptability 3 stars

Adaptive to apartment living 1 star

Suitable for new owners 2 stars

Sensitivity range 3 stars

Comfortable being alone 2 stars

Comfortable with cold weather 4 stars

Comfortable with hot weather 4 stars

All about friendliness 5 stars

Lovable with family 5 stars

Kid-friendly 5 stars

Dog-friendly 5 stars

Frank with strangers 5 stars

Grooming and Health Requirements 4 stars

Shedding quantity 5 stars

Drooling capacity 3 stars

Effortless to groom 4 stars

Overall health 5 stars

Capable of weight gain 5 stars

Size 3 stars

Trainability 4 stars

Effortless to train 2 stars

Smartness 5 stars

Capable of biting 1-star

Tendency to attack prey 5 stars

Urge to howl or bark 5 stars

Wanderlust personality 5 stars

Physical Requirements 5 stars

Energy range 5 stars

Intensity 5 stars

Exercise requirements 5 stars

Playful personality 5 stars

Vital Statistics

DOG BREED GROUP: HOUND DOGS

HEIGHT: 23-27 INCHES

WEIGHT: 75-100 POUNDS

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10-12 YEARS

Highlights

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. 

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. 

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 actually are. These dogs can grow tall anywhere between 25-27 inches. Their size makes them a good choice for being watchdogs. 

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 own 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. 

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

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. 

Feeding and Diet

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’ll keep your dog healthy. 

Coat color and Grooming

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. 

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. 

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. 

Male vs. Female attitude

The Black and Tan Coonhounds are friendly dogs regardless of their gender. 

Exercise

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. 

Little known facts

These dogs go anywhere their nose takes them, so never put them off leash. 

FAQ on breed 

  1. Where do the Black and Tan Coonhounds dog breeds come from?

USA

  1. What is the best diet routine for a Black and Tan Coonhound?

3-5 cups of high-quality dog food a day.

  1. How much exercise is required for a Black and Tan Coonhound?

Daily walks

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