Exceptionally talented in the field and loving at home, the American English Coonhound is renowned for its speed, endurance, and loud, melodious voice. Originally bred for hunting, this breed has a distinctive, effortless gait along with an affable demeanor making it a splendid companion for those with an active lifestyle. Interested in learning more about this breed’s vibrant personality, attentive care needs, and intriguing history? Continue reading for a comprehensive guide on the American English Coonhound.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | American English Coonhound |
| Scientific Name | Canis lupus familiaris |
| Characteristic | Friendly, Energetic, Vocal, Athletic |
| Life Span | 11-12 years |
| Build | Strong and athletic |
| Average Weight | 40 to 65 pounds |
| Average Height | 24 to 26 inches (males), 23 to 25 inches (females) |
| Coat Length | Short and hard |
| Coat Colors | Red and white ticked, blue and white ticked, tricolor with ticking, red and white, and black and white |
| Coat Pattern | Ticked and patched |
| Eye Colors | Usually brown |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Country of Origin | United States |
Physical Description
The American English Coonhound sports a strong, athletic build, embodying a perfect balance between strength and agility. Adult males typically stand between 24 to 26 inches tall, while females are slightly more petite at 23 to 25 inches. The average weight for this sturdy breed ranges from 40 to 65 pounds.
Their short, hard coat is equipped for braving rough terrains and comes in a palette of colored ticks and patches. The distinctive coat patterns include red and white ticked, blue and white ticked, tricolor with ticking, solid red and white, and black and white. This resilient coat makes them suitable for both hot and cold climates.
American English Coonhounds possess a square muzzle, oval eyes that radiate a warm, intelligent expression, and low-set, long ears that hang gracefully. The eye colors are typically a rich, deep brown that complements their warm and buoyant personality. Males tend to be more muscular than females, presenting a more rugged demeanor, while females exhibit a more refined silhouette.
Behavior and Temperament of the American English Coonhound
The temperament of the American English Coonhound is as inviting as their harmonious bark. Renowned for their steadfast, unshakeable temperament in the field, they are equally companionable and affectionate with their families. This is a breed that thrives on companionship and activity, showing ceaseless enthusiasm for play, work, and exploration. They are also noted for their vocal abilities, often participating in a choir of howls and barks, particularly if left alone or bored.
They are sociable creatures, eager to make friends with all, including children, other dogs, and often, even strangers. Their ability to adapt rapidly to training makes them a pleasure to work with, especially when positive reinforcement methods are employed.
History and Origin
The American English Coonhound’s lineage is steeped in American history, tracing back to the early 1800s. Originating from the Virginia Hounds, imported by early settlers and bred by founding figures like George Washington, these dogs were designed for the rigorous task of trailing raccoons and foxes. Over time, the breed split into the Black and Tan Coonhound and the Treeing Walker Coonhound, along with the breed in question, all sharing common ancestors but evolving for different types of game and terrain.
Originally known as the English Fox and Coonhound, the American English Coonhound was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2011. This breed is a testament to American ingenuity in dog breeding, showcasing time-honored traits of endurance, speed, and a distinctive, melodious bay that can echo through the forests and valleys of their homeland.
American English Coonhound Dog Care
Caring for an American English Coonhound entails a focus on their grooming needs, physical activity, living arrangements, and mental engagement. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, a weekly brush to keep it looking its best will suffice. More critically, they require ample exercise – with their history as hunting dogs, daily vigorous activities such as long walks, jogs, or play sessions are necessary to quench their pursuit of physical stimuli.
An American English Coonhound can thrive both indoors and outdoors. However, given their predisposition for sounding off, they may be better suited to houses with a substantial yard, preferably with a fence to prevent them from chasing after scents.
Common Health Problems
The American English Coonhound, known for its friendly demeanor, impressive stamina, and distinctive baying sound, is a resilient breed but still prone to several health conditions. Responsible ownership entails being vigilant and proactive in managing these potential health issues to ensure a high quality of life for these devoted companions. Key health concerns include:
- Hip Dysplasia: Like many larger breeds, the American English Coonhound is susceptible to hip dysplasia, a genetic condition where the thigh bone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. This can lead to discomfort, lameness, and arthritis. Weight management, proper nutrition, and avoiding excessive strain during exercise can help manage this condition.
- Ear Infections: Their long, floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, leading to bacterial and yeast infections. Regular cleaning and checking of the ears are paramount to prevent infections and ensure the ears remain dry and clean.
- Obesity: If not exercised properly, American English Coonhounds can easily become overweight, putting unnecessary strain on their joints and potentially leading to serious health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and shortened life expectancy. Maintaining a healthy diet and ensuring they receive adequate physical activity are key to preventing obesity.
By being mindful of these common health problems, owners of American English Coonhounds can take significant steps toward preventing them. This involves not only regular veterinary visits for early detection and management but also employing preventive measures such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle for their dogs. Through such care, these beloved hounds can enjoy a long, happy, and healthy life by your side.
Where to Adopt or Buy an American English Coonhound
Interested in welcoming an American English Coonhound into your home? Explore breed-specific rescues or national organizations like the American Kennel Club’s “AKC Rescue Network.” The average cost of a purebred puppy from a reputable breeder can range from $600 to $1200, depending on lineage.
Diet and Nutrition
An optimal diet for an American English Coonhound should be formulated for a medium-sized breed with high energy and exercise needs. They often do well on high-quality kibble, supplemented with occasional wet food for variety. Meat should be the primary ingredient, with a balance of carbohydrates, essential fats, vitamins, and minerals to support their active lifestyle.
Male Vs Female
Choosing between a male or female American English Coonhound may come down to individual preference. Males can be more boisterous and larger, while females may have gentler temperaments.
Family Life
American English Coonhounds are family-oriented dogs that bond deeply with their loved ones. Their friendly and tolerant nature makes them excellent additions to active households.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the American English Coonhound intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- Bluetick Coonhound
- Redbone Coonhound
- Treeing Walker Coonhound
For more dog breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQ’s about American English Coonhound
Are American English coonhounds good pets?
Yes, they are excellent pets for active families and those who enjoy outdoor adventures. Their friendly and loyal nature makes them great companions.
Do American English coonhounds bark a lot?
Yes, they are known for their loud and melodious bark, which can be frequent without proper training and mental stimulation.
What is the other name for the American English Coonhound?
They are sometimes also known as the Redtick Coonhound due to their coat pattern.
Are American coonhounds smart?
Yes, American coonhounds are intelligent dogs, known for their problem-solving abilities and trainability.
