The Black and Tan Coonhound is a breed of dog. Developed in the United
States from crosses between the Bloodhound and the Black and Tan Virginia
Foxhound, this coonhound runs its game entirely by scent and is used primarily
for coon hunting.
Description
According
to the FCI breed standard Black and Tan Coonhound males should be 25–27 inches
(64–69 cm) in height with females slightly smaller at 23–25 inches (58–64 cm)
although it does not specify a weight range. The United Kennel Club does
however include guideline weights of males 50–75 pounds (23–34 kg) with females
ranging from 40–65 pounds (18–29 kg). The height proportions quoted by the UKC
differ from the FCI and allow males to be 23–27 inches (58–69 cm) and females
21–26 inches (53–66 cm). The coat is short, dense and glossy.
The
eyes are hazel to brown, the ears are extremely long, wide, and thin, are set
low and far back on the dog's head, and hang well down the neck. The black and
tan markings are similar to the Doberman's and the Rottweiler's. The Black and
Tan Coonhound's bark is loud and baying; it has been described as a deep howl.
The breed standard includes muscular legs that are long in proportion to body
length. The tail is set slightly below the natural line of the back. If the dog
is alert or excited it carries its tail at a right angle. Males are usually
larger and heavier than females.
Temperament
The
Black and Tan Coonhound makes a suitable pet: it is mellow, amiable, calm, and
unobtrusive indoors; outdoors, its 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 is gentle and tolerant with children, but it may be too
independent to satisfy a playful child. It 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.
Use
The
courage of the Coonhound also makes it proficient on the hunt for deer, bear,
wolf, cougar and other big game although many US states have restricted the
hunting of antlered animals with dogs. However, the primary purpose of the
Black and Tan Coonhound is as a raccoon hunting dog. The general impression is
that of power, agility and alertness, as well as the ability to cover ground
swiftly with powerful rhythmic strides. Each hound has its own distinctive
voice which is often recognizable to its owners from a great distance.
General care
Its
coat 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
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