12 Things That Black and Tan Coonhound Owners Know All Too Well

The Pawsitive Co. was founded with one goal in mind: to help improve the lives of dogs in need, so they can bring joy and love to the world in the same way our first rescue pup, Brody, has done for us. Before we got his DNA tested, we thought he was part Black and Tan Coonhound. And because Brody inspired our company, we shared some facts about the breed. While he isn't actually coonhound at all (he's mostly Rottweiler with some Norwegian Elkhound, Shepherd and Collie), here are 12 things that people who own a Black and Tan Coonhound know all too well.

12. They’re BIG and their legs go on forever

Black and Tan Coonhounds are big dogs. Males stand between 25–27 inches (64–69 cm) at the shoulders and females are slightly shorter at 23–25 inches (58–64 cm). Their weight can range from 65 to 100 pounds and they have lean, muscular legs that are long in proportion to their body length.

11. They are quite vocal

One thing hounds are known for is their loud “baying” and Black and Tan Coonhounds are no different. “Baying” is best described as a deep howl and can sound almost mournful, as if they’re crying or wailing. They also have a loud and deep bark.

10. They sniff...a lot

The Black and Tan Coonhound came about by crossbreeding the Bloodhound with the Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound for the purpose of hunting raccoons. This makes them scent hounds, so they use their scent to track and hunt. Their strong hunting instinct can take over when they’re outside, which means lots of sniffing on walks. They love long walks with plenty of time to sniff everything around them.

9. Leashes are usually necessary

Once a Black and Tan Coonhound starts tracking, it can be tough to turn their attention away from the scent. This is why it’s recommended that people keep their hounds on leashes or within a securely fenced yard or area. That way they won’t wander off in pursuit of a scent.

8. They can be a little stubborn

Black and Tan Coonhounds are strong and independent, which can translate to stubbornness. Don’t expect to get perfect obedience from them because of this independent nature. You may notice that they pick and choose when to listen to you or comply with your wishes.

7. Your training is up for interpretation

Along the same lines, a Black and Tan Coonhound’s independent nature can affect training. More specifically, they can be creative with their interpretation of commands. So you’ll need some patience and positive reinforcement - especially food rewards because…

6. ...They love food

Black and Tan Coonhounds have quite the appetite. They simply love food. They will eat their entire share of a meal and they’ll go for your share too, if they can get to it.

5. They’re prone to ear infections

One distinct feature of the Black and Tan Coonhound are its big, long, velvety ears. Their floppy ears make the Coonhound even more adorable, but they can also cause some issues. Ear infections are one of the major issues. To try and prevent infection, their ears should be checked and cleaned regularly.

4. They shed and have “hound smell”

The Black and Tan Coonhound’s coat is short-haired, dense, glossy and sheds quite a bit. It also emits a musty odor of “dog” commonly referred to as “hound smell.” A few factors contribute to this: the oils on their coat and their skin folds. Because hounds were bred to spend a lot of time outside, they have a lot of odor-causing oils in their coat meant to repel dirt and water. Hounds also often have wrinkles and skin folds that can trap moisture, dirt and bacteria, causing an unpleasant odor.

3. They’re social

Black and Tan Coonhounds are known to be sociable, playful, outgoing and happy-go-lucky dogs. They’re good with people and children, making them great family dogs. Although they can be a little over-excited and rambunctious with young kids, so that’s something to keep in mind.

2. They want your favorite spot on the couch

While Black and Tan Coonhounds may catch a scent and track it when they’re outdoors, they only hunt one thing indoors: the comfy spots around the house. They want to share all the comforts of home with you, including your favorite spot on the couch or your side of the bed.

1. They love their people

Black and Tan Coonhounds love their people and will pine without the human companionship. It’s as if they suffer mentally and physically, almost like being heartbroken, without the company and love of their people. This may make them seem clingy or needy but it’s only because they love you that much.