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