Bluetick Coonhound

Also known as: Coonhound, Bluetick

Size Category:Large
Height:22-27 inches21-25 inches
Weight:55-80 pounds45-65 pounds
Life Span:11-12 years

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • Bluetick Coonhound grooming requires minimal effort due to their short, glossy coat that sheds only moderately
  • Weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush, rubber grooming mitt, or hound glove removes loose hairs and maintains coat appearance
  • Baths are needed only occasionally unless the dog gets into something particularly messy
  • Regular nail trimming is essential to prevent pain and mobility issues from overly long nails
  • The breed’s grooming routine focuses on coat maintenance and nail care rather than frequent bathing
  • Overly long nails can lead to discomfort and affect the dog’s walking and running ability

Colors & Markings

Colors

Blue TickedBlue Ticked and Tan

Markings

Black Spots

Health Information

As a generally robust breed, the Bluetick Coonhound may still face risks like bloat, a serious condition where the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow. Owners should recognize symptoms and act quickly if bloat occurs. Their floppy ears require daily checks for infections, and regular teeth brushing is essential for overall health maintenance.

Recommended Health Tests

No recommended health tests

📜 History

The Bluetick Coonhound is a scenthound breed developed in America, tracing its origins to French staghounds gifted to George Washington by the Marquis de Lafayette. These early dogs were later refined by breeders who incorporated English Foxhound and other hound bloodlines to create a high-stamina hunter with an exceptional cold nose—capable of tracking scent trails days old. Originally bred for raccoon hunting, Blueticks were also used in packs to pursue larger game like bear, wild boar, and cougars. Renowned author Fred Gipson described the breed’s legendary traits in Old Yeller, highlighting their powerful voice, endurance, and fearless courage. Remaining largely unchanged since the early 1900s, Blueticks remain a beloved coon-hunting companion and a cultural icon in the American South. Since 1953, they’ve served as the official mascot of the University of Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bluetick Coonhound can be good with children if properly socialized. They are generally friendly but may have their limits when it comes to rough handling.
The Bluetick Coonhound sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing can help keep loose hair under control.
Yes, the Bluetick Coonhound is generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easier to train than many other breeds. Positive reinforcement works best.
The Bluetick Coonhound is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Occasional brushing and baths are usually sufficient.
The Bluetick Coonhound can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Bluetick Coonhound

Overview

About This Breed

The Bluetick Coonhound is a devoted and tenacious breed with a strong hunting instinct and a keen sense of smell. They are affectionate with family, playful, and generally good with children and other dogs, though their high energy and independent nature require consistent training and engagement to prevent boredom or stubbornness. Their expressive and loyal demeanor makes them a beloved companion for those who appreciate their working-dog heritage.

🎭Temperament

FriendlyIntelligentActive

Purpose

Hunting (scenthound for raccoon, bear, wild boar, lynx, and cougar)

Breed for

Hunting with a superior sense of smell.

Best Suited For

Active owners or families in rural or suburban settings with space for exercise and hunting activities; those who enjoy outdoor adventures and can provide mental stimulation.

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is ideal for an active, experienced dog owner or an outdoor enthusiast who can provide ample exercise, mental challenges, and a secure environment to satisfy their strong prey drive and hunting instincts.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with stubbornness during training due to their independent nature, as well as managing their strong prey drive and tendency to follow scents, which can lead to wandering or difficulty recalling them off-leash.

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About Our Data

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