Nickname        : The Raccoon Raider

Breed Origins : United States ( 1700’s )

Breed usage     : Hunting Raccoons, opossums and bears

Dog Weight      : 55 - 80 Pounds

Dog Height       : 23 to 27 inches to the shoulder

History
Black and Tan Coonhound originates from the United States and is a dog of substantial size and a breed is bred from strains of the Bloodhound and black and tan Foxhound. It was bred originally to hunt racoons, opossums and bears. It’s origins can be dated back to the 1700’s and it is classified as one of the Hound Dogs Group . The Black and Tan Coonhound belongs to the collection of dogs referred to as Scent Hounds, which specialise in following the scent or the smell of its quarry. It wasn’t until the mid 1500’s that hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc. Scent Hounds have distinctive characteristics, features and traits which are perfect for their purpose. They have large noses which have deep, open nostrils and their lips are loose and moist, designed to pick up scent particles and follow the trail of an animal. Their ears are long which concentrates the scent on the nose. Their bodies are designed for endurance, an essential asset when following any scent trail. Hunting takes different forms and as man opts for hunting their quarry either on foot or on horseback the scent hounds have been selectively bred to produce small legs, to enable a man to easily follow on foot, or longer legs suited to keep up with a man on horseback. Most scent hounds were used in packs - making a loud, deep baying noise alerting hunters to their location. As a pet the Black and Tan Coonhound is devoted, sensitive, affectionate, kind, and loves to be part of the family. Their determined nature calls for obedience classes and immediate establishment of “who’s the boss” in the house. They have a loud, baying bark.
The Black and Tan Coonhound originates from strains of the Bloodhound and black and tan Foxhound which were brought to America with the early English settlers. The hunting requirements changed with the new land and its new animals especially the raccoon and the bear. They also trail the American marsupial, the opossum, colloquially referred to as the Possum. They were bred to have the scenting abilities of the Bloodhound but the ability to travel at at faster pace and they were also suited to night hunting. They are also built for endurance and are able to travel across rugged, mountainous regions. In fact, the breed was developed by the people who lived in the Appalachian, Blue Ridge, Ozark and Smoky mountains. When the quarry was cornered, or ‘treed’, the dogs bay, alerting the hunter, who then arrives and shoots the animal. The Black and Tan Coonhound was selectively bred for their color - there are many other types of coonhounds including Blue Tick Coonhounds, Redbone Coonhounds, English Coonhounds, Plott hounds and Treeing Walkers. The Black and Tan Coonhound was first Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1945.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Coat and Colours info
  The Black and Tan Coonhound’s coat comes in Black and tan only. The coat is short and dense.

• Health information - potential health problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Black and Tan Coonhound, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Black and Tan Coonhound can include:
  • Hip and Elbow Dysplasia (abnormal development of joints referred to as CHD - Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia)
  • Entropion (the inversion, or turning inward, of the border of the eyelid against the eyeball)
  • The life expectancy for this particular breed is between 10 – 12 years.

• Grooming and Care
  Black and Tan Coonhound is a very sociable breed, enjoying the company of other dogs and humans. It is, above all, a working dog - powerful and agile with great courage and stamina. The Black and Tan Coonhound is tolerant, independent, gentle, stubborn and sensitive. Although the Black and Tan Coonhound was developed as an active hunting dog it is also obedient. This dog makes a good house pet providing it is given lots of exercise and attention.

• Living conditions and Exercise Requirements
  Black and Tan Coonhound dogs and puppies are not well suited to living in the town because it requires a substantial amount of exercise and a fenced yard. It is a natural scent hound which will be inclined to follow and scent trails and can be difficult in getting them to return. The Black and Tan has also been described as an escapologist who will attempt to dig their way out of any confinement.