The Black and Tan Coonhound: An Excellent Hunter

All you need to know about the Black and Tan Coonhound

Origin

According to studies to determine its origin, its oldest ancestor is the Talbot, a breed from Normandy that goes back to the 6th century. It’s closest ancestor is the American Foxhound. However, when it comes to this breed, there’s little information available regarding its development. Just the same, the similarity in appearance between the American Foxhound and the Black and Tan Coonhound is undeniable.

What’s clear, however, is that this coonhound comes from the southern Appalachians. In this mountain range located between the United States and Canada, people used the Black and Tans to hunt weasels and raccoons. However, it soon became clear how skilled they were, and they were soon employed for greater duties.

There are few breeds that are considered to be purely from the United States. However, the Black and Tan Coonhound is one of them. In fact, stories tell that George Washington himself had four of them. This is why this was one of the first coonhounds to receive recognition in the year 1900.

Shortly after, the Black and Tan Coonhound that we know today developed.

General characteristics of the Black And Tan Coonhound

• These dogs have dense but short hair that is smooth to the touch. They typically have bold reddish spots, similar to those of a Rottweiler.
• Their bodies are always proportional in regards to height and length, maintaining a balance between both.
• The head of a Black and Tan Coonhound is long, and its snout is parallel to the upper line of its cranium. Its ears are long, in line with its eyes, and are droopy and wrinkly. However, when it comes to their faces, in order to be considered purebred, they mustn’t have a single wrinkle.
• In regards to length, males measure 25 to 27 inches from head to tail. As for bitches, they measure between 23 and 25 inches in length. Their backs should always form a straight horizontal line.
• The legs of a Black and Tan Coonhound should always be straight. What’s more, they should always respect the proportion of the rest of the animal’s body. Finally, they should be muscular in appearance, with strong, thick bones.
• Their tails are long and have a resilient appearance. They always form a right angle without the slightest curve.
• In order to be considered a Black and Tan Coonhound, their fur must not consist of more than 15% of copper coloring. What’s more, they must not have any white spots on their chest or legs.

The character and temperament

The Black and Tan Coonhound has an innate tracking instinct given its amazing sense of smell. It’s true that it’s not a particularly fast dog. However, it possesses physical abilities and excellent agility that help it in its work. Its hair is also helpful, given that its thickness and oiliness can protect it from dirt and roughness in the environment. In the same way, their fur even protects them from the attacks of other animals.

Black and Tan Coonhounds are active and very independent. However, at the same time, they’re loyal to their own. They’re not edgy, meaning it’s okay for them to be around children. What’s more, they make for wonderful pets, especially when it comes to protecting your home.

How to care for Black and Tan Coonhounds

This breed may suffer from ear infections. This is because of the shape of its ears, which don’t allow for proper ventilation of the orifices. Therefore, it’s important to check your pet’s ears often and clean them whenever necessary.

You need to do the same when it comes to their eyes. They may be prone to infections and vision problems.

Hip dysplasia is a common problem as these animals get older. However, a good dose of regular exercise can help to prevent this ailment.

The Black and Tan Coonhound is an ideal pet if you live in a wide-open area where it can have its own space and time alone. So, do you think you’d like one as a pet?

Source of images: Adam Salsman and Bryce Bradford