<C>Height:</C> 25 to 27 inches (male); 23 to 25 inches (female).
<C>Weight:</C> 80 to 90 pounds (male); 65 to 75 (female).
<C>Size:</C> Large.
<C>Availability:</C> Very difficult to find.
<b>History:</> The Black and Tan Coonhound was developed by crossing the Bloodhound and Foxhound. He is best known as a raccoon hunter. The Black and Tan Coonhound howls as he trees his quarry. The breed has also been used very successfully to hunt other types of game such as bear, deer and even mountain lion.
<b>Description:</> The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large, powerful working hound. He can cover a lot of ground with his long rhythmic strides. The length of the body from withers to rump is the same as or a bit longer than the height at the withers. The topline is fairly level. The chest should reach at least down to the elbows. The head of this dog shows his Bloodhound roots, with his large black nose, long drooping lips and very long hanging ears. The moderate stop is located midway between the occiput and the nose. The upper plane of the skull is approximately parallel to the upper plane of the muzzle. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The rounded eyes are hazel to dark brown. The short, sleek coat is black and tan.
<b>Notes:</> Does best in a rural home. Don't overfeed. May howl if left alone too much. May take off after an interesting scent, so it is dangerous to let this breed off lead in an unsafe area. Tends to be aggressive with strange dogs. There are two types of Black and Tan Coonhound, show and field. The show types are a bit larger. They may also be somewhat less energetic and work oriented, and therefore tend to make better pets. Beware of hip dysplasia. Buy only from OFA certified stock.
<b>Personality:</> An intelligent dog, very dedicated to his work. Alert and eager. Some sources say this dog is aggressive, but will listen to his master. Other sources say he is gentle and friendly with people. Some individuals are protective. This dog can be willful, requiring firm, patient and on-going training.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Best with older, considerate children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Reserved with strangers.
<C>Trainability:</C> somewhat difficult to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Moderately dependent on people.
<C>Dominance:</C> Moderate.
<C>Other Pets:</C> May be aggressive with dogs of the same sex; do not trust with non-canine pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Can be a bit dog-aggressive.
<C>Noise:</C> Likes to howl.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> A little grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> No trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Short coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Average shedder.
<C>Exercise:</C> Vigorous daily exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> An excellent jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Relatively inactive indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Not recommended for apartments.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Best with a large yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Not recommended for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Average (10 to 12 years).
<b>Talents:</> hunting, tracking, watchdog, and agility.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> BLACK AND TAN COONHOUND
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
