American English Coonhound
Breed Summary
The American English Coonhounds are deep-chested, sweet-faced athletes with their top speed and endurance. They stretched tightly across the athletic frame is a medium-length coat of various patterns. Their head is broad with a domed skull, with soft ears and dark-brown eyes. The American English Coonhound is popular for its strong but racy body, a deep chest, a strong back, broad loin, and well-defined musculature. They are well-balanced, powerful dog with no exaggerated parts. American English Coonhounds are mellow when off duty, but tenacious in pursuit of their ring-tailed prey.
Country of Origin: USA
AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 175 of 196
AKC Classification: Hound Group
UKC Classification: Scent-hounds
Exercise Requirements: >40 minutes/day
Physical traits: Sleek, Racy, Muscular
Personality traits/Temperament: Sweet, Mellow, Sociable
Height: Female: 23-25 inches; Male: 24-26 inches
Weight: 45-65 pounds
Coat: Length: Medium
Characteristics: Dense
Colors: Tri-color, Lemon & White, Tri-color Ticked, Red & White, Redtick, Bluetick
Overall Grooming Needs: Low
Energy Level: Laid back
Tendency to Drool: High
Tendency to Snore: Low
Tendency to Bark: Moderate
Tendency to Dig: Low
Social/Attention Needs: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 11-12 years
Health Care
The American English Coonhound is a healthy breed. Since they are hard-working dogs, so they should be closely monitored for health conditions including hip and elbow dysplasia and eye disorders such as progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, and cataracts. Their ears should be checked regularly to remove wax and debris. They can develop gastric torsion or bloat which can lead to a life-threatening condition because of their deep-chested body. Like other large and deep-chested breeds, he can experience bloat, a sudden, life-threatening stomach condition. Owners should learn the signs of bloat and contact with the veterinary doctor immediately.
Nutrition
The American English Foxhound should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). A quality multivitamin is always recommended. Remember that a working dog requires a very different food than one who lives a more sedentary life. Coonhounds are prone to getting overweight as they age, so be mindful of your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
Training
Following through with proper early socialization of your American English Coonhound is paramount, or your puppy may become possessive over food or toys in your home. The key to a well-adjusted, mentally healthy dog is to have him experience positive interactions with many different kinds of people in a variety of places and situations. Like many hounds, English dogs have a split personality: tenacious, tireless, and stubborn on the trail, but at home these spirited hunters are sweetly amiable companions. Still, the breed’s limitless prey drive and energy, the patience it takes to train them for anything other than coon hunting, and their tendency to bark in a loud, ringing voice make them most appropriate for experienced dog owners.
Exercise
American English Coonhound is an ideal candidate as a companion for someone who is an active runner, biker, or hiker because these breeds have a powerful desire to be a part of your pack. They need a lot of exercises to lead a healthy and happy life. Always use paw balm to protect their feet. The breed has a powerful prey drive for their instinct to follow an interesting scent that he detects with his sensitive nose. He requires a fenced area where he can run freely. Chasing a ball, jogging, running in the backyard can be an excellent source of exercise.
Fun Fact
The American English Coonhound can climb trees.
References
1. American Kennel Club. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.akc.org/
2. Dog Breeds | Hill’s Pet. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/breeds
3. List of Dog Breeds | Petfinder. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/
4. All Dog Breeds - Complete List of Dog Profiles. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/profiles
5. Dog Breeds | Types of Dogs | Purina. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breeds
