Dr. James Watuwa Last updated: 4th April 2023Treeing Walker Coonhound
By
Dr. Watuwa James (MSc. WHM ,BVM) boasts a notable six-year track record in the care and management of diverse species, especially Wild Animels ,Dogs ,Cats and More.
Dr. James Watuwa Last updated: 4th April 2023The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a dog bred for hunting. They are medium-sized dogs with smooth, short coats and long legs, giving them endurance, power, and speed.
The “Treeing” in their name refers to the method of hunting where hunters use dogs to force arboreal animals that climb up a tree so they can shoot it. The “Walker” is given after Thomas Walker, a crucial figure in the breed’s early development during the mid-18th century and the Coonhound is a hunting dog or scenthound.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Pictures
Quick Information
| Other Names | Walker, TWC |
| Coat | A short and smooth coat that repels dirt and mud |
| Color | Black, white, tan and tri-color |
| Breed Type | Crossbreed |
| Group | Hound |
| Life expectancy | 12 – 13 years |
| Size | Medium-sized |
| Height | Males: 22 – 27 inches Females: 20 – 25 inches |
| Weight | 50–70 lb (23–32 kg) |
| Litter Size | 5-10 puppies |
| Behavioral characteristics | Affectionate, clever, confident, intelligent, and loving |
| Good with Children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | Loud and clear bark, and has ‘bugle bark’ |
| Climate Compatibility | Compatible with both hot and cold weather; however, mild weather is preferred. |
| Apartment Compatibility | Poor |
| Do they shed | They shade moderately throughout the year. |
| Are they Hypoallergenic | No |
| Trainability | Moderate |
| How much do they cost | $400 – $800 |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/Information | ACA = American Canine Association ACR = American Canine Registry AKC = American Kennel Club APRI = American Pet Registry, Inc. CKC = Continental Kennel Club DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc. NAPR = North American Purebred Registry, Inc. NKC = National Kennel Club UKC = United Kennel Club |
| Country | United States |
History and Origin
The origin of the Treeing Walker Coonhound goes back to colonial America. This breed’s development started during the 1770s in Virginia. From the crosses of English Foxhounds brought to the United States, Virginia hounds and Walker foxhounds evolved. These dogs became the progenitors of the Walkers. They were initially named English Coonhound, but later some breeders started breeding these dogs with different essential qualities in mind and classified this new breed as Treeing Walker. In the 19th century, Tennessee Lead greatly influenced the Treeing Walker by contributing drive, game sense, speed, and a clear, short voice.
In 1905 the United Kennel Club (UKC) first recognized this breed as the English Coonhound breed’s part. But later, in 1945, it was recognized as an entirely separate breed, and its name was changed to Treeing Walker Coonhound. The American Kennel Club (AKC) gave it recognition in January 2012, which made it the 174th recognized breed of AKC.
Temperament and Personality
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are calm, friendly, intelligent, loyal, and loving dogs that are happy to interact with humans. They are relaxed and comfort-loving dogs at home, but while outside, they are alert, energetic, and intense, especially if they pick up an interesting scent to follow. If they do so, they might become stubborn and oblivious to calls. These dogs are amiable and get along well with children and other dogs. Part of their temperament depends on their high energy level and hunting instincts, which sometimes can lead to them being very vocal.
Their Aggression
This is an even-tempered breed and is generally not aggressive. Pushing these dogs into aggressive behavior towards other dogs or humans is difficult. They are known for their willingness to work and eagerness to please their owners.
Care
Exercise
These dogs have high energy levels and need a lot of exercise. They need at least one to two hours of daily physical activities. Take them on long runs, hikes, or daily long walks. These dogs also enjoy playing with humans and other canine pets; activities like chasing a ball, playing fetch, and romping around the backyards will give them proper mental and physical stimulation.
Without enough exercise, they might become destructive and highly vocal.
Grooming
Walkers are very low-maintenance dogs. They have short coats which are smooth and repel dirt and do not need regular bathing; only bathe them when they start to smell or whenever necessary. Brush their coat once weekly and wipe them with a damp cloth after a hunt; it will keep the coat healthy and shiny. Trim their nails every few weeks or whenever it grows too long since it can cause your dog discomfort. Check their ears regularly for excess wax or debris and keep them clean to avoid ear infections. Brushing their teeth several times a week is advised.
Health Problems
This breed is generally healthy but may suffer from hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems.
Feeding
The diet of a Treeing Walker Coonhound should be rich in protein and healthy fat, for example, ground bones. Also, give them vegetables that contain plenty of essential vitamins and minerals. Always make sure that they have access to clean water. While giving your dogs commercially manufactured food, ensure it has all the nutrients for optimum health. Animal proteins such as buffalo, chicken, duck, lamb, salmon, beef, turkey, venison, etc., are good for them.
The nutritional requirements of your dog and the feeding depend on its age and activity level. For example, if measuring in cups, a puppy needs one and a half to three cups of dry food. Puppies between 4-12 weeks old need four meals per day; divide the meals into three parts for pups aged between three to six months old, and for those aged six months to one year old, two meals daily would be enough.
They are prone to being overweight as they age, especially the ones that do not go hunting, so it is essential to check the amount of food and treats they receive.
Consulting a veterinarian might be a good idea to determine the best way of feeding your dog.
Training
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are eager to learn and please their owner. However, they can be stubborn at times, which makes it harder for the owners that do not understand their behavior to train them.
Socialization: Proper socialization makes a difference in puppies’ long-term behavior. Generally, these dogs are happy and very outgoing but also very independent and stubborn. Therefore, socializing them should start since they are puppies. Introduce your puppy to various people and places, and expose them to unfamiliar situations.
The appropriate age for Treeing Walker Coonhound puppy training is eight weeks old. Between 8-12 weeks, they are at their full learning capacity. Consulting a behavioral specialist or obedience classes will be suitable for better training.
Obedience: Teach them basic commands, including ‘Stop’ and ‘Stay’. It is better to keep the training sessions short since it is more efficient and will ensure the complete attention of your dog. Five minute sessions for three to five times daily will be enough. Remember to reward the dog with treats after it successfully follows your command.
Leash: These dogs have strong hunting instincts and follow any scent their noses pick up. Therefore, always keep them on a leash while taking them outside for walking or hiking.
Interesting Facts
- Nate, a Treeing Walker Coonhound from Somerset, KY, won first place in the hound category at the National Dog Show held in Philadelphia.
FAQs
Ans: The Treeing Walker Coonhound was bred for hunting purposes. They may be protective of their owner, but they are not very territorial when guarding properties. Despite being highly alert, they do not stay on the lookout for trespassers.
Ans: They have an ordinary bite force of 200 and 400 PSI.
Ans: On the AKC record, the Treeing Walker Coonhound’s average speed is 22.1 mph (35.6 kph), and the maximum speed is 25.74 mph (41.4 kph).
