Bluetick Coonhound Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Bluetick Coonhound?

Bluetick Coonhounds come from Louisiana in the United States. They date back to before the founding of America.

It is rumoured that the Bluetick coonhound descended from French hounds which were presented to George Washington as a gift. It is a mixture of many breeds, including the English foxhound, Grand Bleu de Gascogne hound, American foxhound, Black and Tan Virginia foxhound, and the cur dog.

The result of this crossbreeding was a hound with plenty of endurance and a good nose for picking up scents on the hunt. Historically this breed was well to hunt racoons - therefore the name "coonhound" - but was also able to track big game like wild boar and hunt in a pack.

The United Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1946, and it was recognised by several international Kennel Clubs. A breed club was established in many countries across the world. Yet, the American Kennel Club only recognised the Bluetick coonhound in 2009.

Who are Bluetick Coonhound dogs best for?

This dog breed is very sensitive. They require a regular daily routine and a calm household.

They enjoy social interaction with their family or furry friends, but they do have an independent streak and enjoy alone time as well.

Bluetick coonhounds are not well-suited to apartments and will have to live in a property with a fenced yard.

These dogs are excellent family dogs. They love their people and get on well with children of all ages. They are pack animals and get on extremely well with other dogs. In terms of other pets, they may require some training as they have a prey instinct and may chase cats and other animals.

How much grooming does a Bluetick Coonhound need?

The glossy coat of the Bluetick coonhound is easy to care for. Although they are moderate shedders, they simply require a weekly brush to remove any loose hairs and to help distribute natural oils.

The bathing frequency will depend on how dirty your dog gets. It is recommended to bathe your coonhound once a month. Nails must be trimmed monthly if it is not worn down naturally.

The large, droopy ears require some maintenance as well. You must keep the ears dry and clean and check them weekly.

Do Bluetick Coonhound bark much?

Bluetick coonhounds bark a lot. They are incredibly loud, and will have a good time barking and howling for fun. When left alone, or not getting enough exercise, your Coonhound will sing you his song. This makes them unsuited for apartments or homes without yards.

Other reasons for barking include notifying their owners of a threat, when they are alarmed, in greeting, or when bored.

Do Bluetick Coonhound bite?

Bluetick coonhounds do not have a high tendency for biting. They are not nippy dogs and will not bite without cause.

The main reasons your Coonhound might bite is if it is provoked, or if its prey drive kicks in.

You can train your Bluetick Coonhound puppy to not bite by providing it with chew toys and encouraging positive behaviours.

What is the temperament & personality of a Bluetick Coonhound?

A Bluetick Coonhound's temperament can be described as affectionate, loyal and active.

These dogs do everything at max capacity. They are hard workers, they are playful, but they also enjoy relaxing in the sun on the porch.

Coonhounds are great with children and will put up with a playful young child as well as other dogs in the household.

The Bluetick Coonhound is not an apartment dog. Their affinity for barking means they will loudly announce their boredom or frustration. Even in homes with yards, they will need proper training to reduce their barking tendencies.

Blueticks love their people. They are loyal, gentle and kind. This breed makes for excellent therapy dogs because of their close bonds to their owners.

What is the weight & size of a Bluetick Coonhound?

Weight:

• Male: 25 - 36.2 kgs

• Female: 20.4 - 29.4 kgs

Height:

• Male: 55.8 - 68.6 cm

• Female: 53 - 63.5 cm

How much training does a Bluetick Coonhound need?

Bluetick Coonhounds are intelligent dogs and do respond well to training if you can work around their stubborn mindset (which can make them challenging to train). It is best to start training your dog from a young age and use positive reinforcement methods.

Training must be consistent. It is best if one person in the family does the training so that all cues remain the same. Obedience training classes will be a good investment as it will socialise the pup and also teach you proper training techniques.

Bluetick Coonhounds do well in canine sports and other dog sports like tracking activities. This will also strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

Although Bluetick Coonhounds are friendly and get on well with other dogs, it is still important to socialise your dog from a young age. A crucial part of dog ownership is boosting the confidence of your dog. This can be done by introducing your dog to other breeds and taking your dog to different environments.

Dogs that lack mental stimulation will let you know - they will use their loud hound bay and barks to indicate boredom.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Bluetick Coonhound?

This breed is generally healthy but can have some hereditary health issues. Bluetick coonhounds are prone to the following health conditions:

• Hip dysplasia: This condition causes hip joints to dislocate. It can cause pain and may require surgery when the dog is older.

• Ear infection: The large, floppy ears of a Bluetick Coonhound can cause ear infections in young dogs. This can be monitored by regularly checking their ears and cleaning them as required.

• Bloat: Dogs with deep chests, like the Bluetick Coonhound, can experience bloat - or stomach torsion. If your dog eats or drinks too fast and swallows air, the stomach can twist and appear bloated. This condition can be fatal.

What is the lifespan of a Bluetick Coonhound?

The breed has an average life span of 10 to 15 years.

How much should you feed a Bluetick Coonhound?

Coonhounds must always have access to fresh drinking water.

Your Bluetick Coonhound will require high-protein, quality dog food. Food should be spread across two mealtimes each day. The amount of food will depend on the age and activity levels of your dog.

Coonhounds can experience bloat when eating too fast. If your dog is a fast eater, you should use a slow-feeding bowl, use a food puzzle or snuffle mat, or spread smaller meals out throughout the day.

What is the price of a Bluetick Coonhound in Australia?

A Bluetick Coonhound will cost between $715 and $860. The price of the puppy will depend on the breeder, the age, and the bloodline of the pup.