Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an American scent hound — a cold-nosed trailer with a Bloodhound's inheritance, bred to follow a raccoon's track and bay it up a tree.

History

It was developed in the United States from Bloodhound and foxhound stock to work by nose alone, trailing game over any distance and then holding it treed until the hunter arrives. The rich black-and-tan coat gives the breed its name.

Temperament

The breed is known for being even-tempered, friendly and easygoing at home, and single-minded and tireless once it is on a scent. It has the deep, carrying bay of a working hound.

Care and training

It needs plenty of exercise and a securely fenced space, since a nose on a trail will not recall, and training a scent hound rewards patience and food. The short coat is easy, but the long ears need regular cleaning.

Health

Known tendencies include hip dysplasia, ear infections from the drop ears, eyelid faults and the bloat risk of a deep chest. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.