American English Coonhound
The American English Coonhound, known for its speed and endurance, is a breed of medium-sized scent hounds typically bred for coon hunting and treeing. It comes in three types, including the redtick, tricolor tick, and bluetick. It is characterized by a robust and balanced body with broad, moderate-sized head, dark brown eyes, low hanging ears, somewhat square muzzle, muscular neck, clean, gradually sloping shoulders, sturdy, straight legs, and high-set tail.
American English Coonhound Pictures
Quick Information
Other Names | Redtick Coonhound, English Coonhound |
Coat | Short/medium, with hard protective hair |
Color | Blue and white, red and white, tri-colored with ticking, white and black |
Breed Type | Purebred |
Category | Hound, Scenthound |
Lifespan | 11-12 years |
Weight | 45-65 lb |
Size | Medium |
Height | Females: 23-25 in Males: 24-26 in |
Shedding | Seasonal, moderate |
Temperament | Energetic, intelligent, loyal, sweet and mellow |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Litter Size | 6-8 puppies |
Good with Children | Requires supervision |
Barking | Vocal |
Country Originated in | USA |
Competitive Registration/ Qualification Information | AKC, UKC |
Video: American English Coonhound Treeing
History
The English Coonhounds evolved from English Foxhounds that were brought to North America by settlers during the 1600s. Like most coonhounds, the American English Coonhound was influenced by the Virginia Foxhounds, which were created over the years from breeds imported to the US by Thomas Walker, Robert Brooke, and President George Washington.
These hounds had adapted to work in treacherous terrain, as they were specially bred to suit these conditions. They were commonly used for hunting red foxes during the day and raccoons by night. It was acknowledged by the UKC (United Kennel Club) as the “English Fox and Coonhound” in 1905 and was recognized by the AKC in June 2011.
Temperament and Behavior
A good-natured dog, the American English Coonhound, is a loyal family companion that is pleasant to humans and other dogs. It is always willing to please its owner with its humorous behavior also being an active playmate for children. It loves to nest and will typically lay down on beds and couches.
It has a high chasing instinct and is not suitable for families with small household pets unless trained otherwise. It is watchful of its territory and will let out a long series of loud, drawn out howls at the sight of anything suspicious.
As a hunting animal with a keen sense of smell, it has become popular for tracking game such as cougars, raccoons, and bears. While on the hunt, the American English Coonhound forces the game to climb up into a tree and keeps it in position until the hunters arrive and shoot it.
Care
Exercise
Being an energetic breed, it needs both physical and mental stimulation regularly. Aside from taking it out for long brisk walks on a leash, you can let your dog run alongside you while you jog or ride a bike. You may also train it for hunting, tracking, or field trials.
Grooming
The English Coonhound’s coat needs occasional brushing using a hound glove or soft bristle brush. If it hunts with you, then make sure to regularly check its ears for a buildup of debris and wax and clean them with a vet-recommended solution. Also, check its foot pads for cuts or scrapes. Brush its teeth regularly and trim its nails every week to prevent it from splitting.
Health Problems
Though there is no report of any breed-specific health issues, conditions like ear infections and hip dysplasia may occur. Some individuals may heat excessively while hunting raccoons during the summer.
Training
Since the American English Coonhound can occasionally be strong-willed and is easily distracted, it needs consistent, firm, and gentle guidance.
Socialization
Start your English Coonhound’s socialization soon after bringing it home. Expose the puppy to other dogs as well as small household pets so that it learns to coexist with them. If you have friends or family members who have friendly, vaccinated pets, invite them to your place, or visit their homes. It will help your pup to make friends in a controlled environment.
Leash Training
While you teach your dog loose-leash walking, there could be a situation when your dog pulls in the opposite direction or starts chasing and lunging after another pet. In such instances, stand still and do not move until your American English Coonhound comes to you. Avoid dragging your pet along with you, and do not pull the leash. You may use head halters and front-hook harnesses if your dog tends to pull.
Feeding
As an energetic breed, the English Coonhound may be given two-and-a-half to three cups of dry food regularly.
Interesting Facts
- In a 2012 poll, the American English Coonhound has been rated as one of the most “talkative” breeds by the American veterinarians.