The Black and Tan Coonhound dog is a breed of hunting dog. This scent hound runs it’s game entirely by scent and is used primarily for raccoon hunting. It is also known as American Black and Tan Coonhound.
The Black and Tan Coonhound dog breed was developed in the United States from crosses between the Bloodhound and the Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound.
The Black and Tan Coonhound dogs are very friendly and are a versatile companion who shines in the show ring and field. At home, they are superb playmate, walking or jogging companion and a bed warmer.
The breed is rarely thought of as a family dog, because of it’s strong hunting instinct and specialized skills. The breed is not good for apartment life, and the novice dog parents will struggle with the breed’s intensity.
Still, for people who admire the hound’s independent nature and sense of humor, they can make an excellent companion, and at home they tend to be laidback, playful, and gentle.
In the year of 1945, the Black and Tan Coonhound dog became the first of the 6 varieties of Coonhound to be recognized by the AKC, in the Hound group.
Black and Tan Coonhound Dog Characteristics
The Black and Tan Coonhound dogs are large dogs with very beautiful appearance. Their eyes are hazel to brown, the ears are long, wide and thin. And the ears are set low and far back on the dog’s head, and hang well down the neck.
The black and tan markings of the Black and Tan Coonhound dog are similar to the Doberman’s and the Rottweiler’s. Bark of these dogs is loud and baying; it has been described as a deep howl.
Their legs are muscular that are long in proportion to the body length. Their tail is set slightly below the natural line of the back. They carry the tail at a right angle if they are alert or excited.
Average body height of the mature dogs is between 21 and 27 inches at the withers for males, and between 21 and 24 inches for the females. Average live body weight of the mature dog is between 23 and 34 kg for the males, and between 18 and 29 kg for the females.
Temperament
The Black and Tan Coonhound dogs are calm, amiable, mellow and unobtrusive indoors. And in outdoor, it’s strong hunting instinct takes over and it can be difficult to turn it from tracking after it starts trailing. As befitting a dog with its heritage, it is strong, independent, and stubborn.
The Black and Tan Coonhound dog breed is gentle and tolerant with the children, but it may be too independent to satisfy a playful child. The breed is reserved with strangers and in their presence may bay and howl.
The Black and Tan Coonhound can run for miles although it is usually content with a moderate jog or long walk, with an occasional excursion into the field. It can wander if it catches a scent, so a safe area is mandatory.[1]
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Black and Tan Coonhound dog is between 10 and 12 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Black and Tan Coonhound dogs are large in size. So, their diet should be formulated for a large breed with high exercise needs. You can consult with your vet for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Black and Tan Coonhound dogs. Being a pack dog, it is among the few breeds who can adjust to kennel life and even live outdoors (if it’s not too cold, it’s with another social dog, and it’s given warm, dry shelter). But if it’s an only dog, it should live indoors with it’s human pack so it doesn’t get lonely.
If you do keep the dog outside, make it during the day only and bring it in at night. The dog will need a large fenced yard. Because a fence keeps the dogs safe inside the home.
The Black and Tan Coonhound dogs have short and dense coat, which needs only occasional brushing. Most Coonhounds drool to some extent, and the face may need regular wiping. The ears should also be checked regularly to ensure against ear infections.
Health
The Black and Tan Coonhound dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include hip dysplasia, ear infections, ear cancer and eye problems. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Black and Tan Coonhound |
| Other Names | American Black and Tan Coonhound |
| Breed Size | Large |
| Height | Between 21 and 27 inches at the withers for males, and between 21 and 24 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 23 and 34 kg for the males, and between 18 and 29 kg for the females |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Coal black with rich tan markings |
| Lifespan | Between 10 and 12 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | United States |
