American English Coonhound Scientific Classification
Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Chordata
Class Mammalia
Order Carnivora
Family Canidae
Genus Canis
Scientific Name: Canis lupus
American English Coonhound Locations
North America
Conservation Status
Not Listed
American English Coonhound Characteristics
Origin United States
Size Medium to Large
Exercise Needs High
Training Needs Moderate
Color Tan, Brown, White, Black
Skin Type Hair
Lifespan 12 years
Training Medium
Diet Omnivore
Group Dog
Average Litter Size 7
Type Working
2 Pros and Cons of Having American English Coonhound
Pros
A sweet personality
American English Coonhound is a good family dog due to its friendly, sweet personality.
A good watchdog
The loud bark of this dog breed is more than adequate to alert a family that someone is on the property.
Cons
A high-energy dog
These are high-energy dogs, and they need 30 to 60 minutes of daily running exercise. Exercise is vital for their body and mental well-being.
A prey instinct
These dogs were raised to chase small animals such as raccoons. A dog not appropriately socialized may blunder a family pet, such as a rabbit or bird of prey.
American English Coonhound History
Coonhounds originated in the United States. Their ancestors were European hunting hounds, including the foxhound and other breeds that early settlers brought to the New World. Over time, a distinctively American breed arose as these hounds were bred with other coonhounds and local dogs. This breed was early developed to hunt raccoons and other game. Their ability to track scents and tree raccoons makes them exceptional hunters.
American English Coonhound was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1945. As they endured a favorite choice among hunters, particularly in the Southern United States, where coon hunting is a tradition. Today, this dog breed continues to be distinguished as a skilled hunting companion and a loving household member.
American English Coonhound Appearance
This dog breed is famous for their speed and endurance. The breed has a deep chest, a strong back, and strong muscles, giving them an elegant athletic look. The breed is moderate in size, with gentle animated eyes and long floppy ears that sit low on the skull. The nose is square-shaped and proportional to the head. The forelegs are pointed and solid and support the abandoned movement. The hind legs are robust, with well-defined thighs. They come in many colors, such as red and white ticked, tri-color with ticking, red and white, and white and black.
American English Coonhound Temperament
This is a delightfully social and warm dog, particularly after a daily run. The breed is well-known for its pack mentality and does very well with other dogs and children, although small dogs and cats may be flawed for prey. They are known as some of the prime barkers and howlers among the canines and extremely bay and howl. However, they are usually silent and calm indoors. This breed is very trainable but inclined to be prey-focused. Extra training and socialization are necessary to produce compliant and mellow dogs, but with proper care and courtesy, this breed is among the sweetest for an energetic outdoor family.
American English Coonhound Size and Weight
American English Coonhounds are medium—to large-sized dogs. A male can grow 26 inches tall at the shoulder, while a female can grow up to 25 inches tall. Males and females weigh the same, as much as 65 pounds. Puppies weigh 7 to 8 pounds at seven weeks old. They are fully grown at the age of 2.
Height and Weight of Male
Height (Male) 26 inches tall
Weight (Male) 65 pounds, fully mature
Height and Weight of Female
Height (Female) 25 inches tall
Weight (Female) 65 pounds, fully mature
Common Health Problems
Although this is a generally healthy breed, it should be carefully checked for health conditions because it is still primarily bred as a working dog. Common health problems are related to the eyes, ears, joints, and stomach.
Hip Dysplasia
They are prone to hip dysplasia, a rare condition of hip joint development that can lead to embarrassment and arthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight, consistent exercise, and an appropriate diet can help decrease the threat of dysplasia.
Bloat
Bloat is a sudden and life-threatening stomach condition in which the stomach is filled with gas, liquid, or even food, causing it to expand. This can cause the stomach to curl and pressure the central vein to the heart.
Cataracts
A cataract is an eye infection that damages the lens of the eye, which can also cause vision problems and blindness.
Elbow Dysplasia
The malformation of the elbow joints on the dog’s front legs may also lead to pain and arthritis.
Ear Infections
Due to their extensive, drooping ears, they may be prone to ear contagions. Moisture and debris can become confined, creating a favorable bacterial or yeast-growing environment. Frequently cleaning and keeping the ears dry also help prevent infection.
American English Coonhound Care
Caring for this dog breed involves attentive care and providing for its unique needs. These dogs are very social and thrive on human interaction, so spending much time with them is essential for their well-being. Regular exercise is necessary for them to stay happy and healthy. Consistent brushing also keeps their coat clean and reduces shedding.
Their long, floppy ears need regular cleaning to prevent ear infections. Monitoring their health is necessary as they are prone to many diseases, such as dysplasia, cataracts, eye issues, and ear infections. Consistent veterinary checkups, a stable diet, and devotion to their well-being contribute to their long and healthy lives.
Maintenance and Grooming
These dogs can shed at the standard rate. A weekly grooming routine can reduce the amount of hair on furniture and keep the dog coat looking glossy.
A grooming glove is also helpful in eliminating dead hair and distributing natural oils that make the dog’s coat shine. The best way to groom a dog is to start at its head and work with the hair flowing towards its tail.
Weekly grooming allows an owner to check for skin irritations and bald spots that may be signs of allergies. In addition, regular grooming can even build a strong bond between dog and owner.
American English Coonhound Training
These dogs are intelligent, determined, and relatively easy to train. However, they can be abstracted by the odors of animals and other things around them. These dogs are relatively amicable towards other dogs and enjoy being sociable. A group training class offers your dog social relations and helps teach new talents.
American English Coonhound Exercise
They have a lot of energy and require 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily for their bodies to stay healthy. Exercise also contributes to their physical and mental health. If this dog does not exercise enough, it will start chewing things in the home and otherwise become damaging.
Running is the best exercise for this dog. These dogs love to chase scents and explore their surroundings. They are not the best option for apartment residents. This dog wants abundant space to run and stretch its legs. A family with a farm would be ideal for this dog.
American English Coonhound Puppies
As they are not very popular, you may need help finding puppies of this dog breed. You can buy a pup from some reputable breeders, but it’s essential to confirm that they perform all necessary health testing suggested by the breed club on their breeding dogs.
When bringing home a puppy, you can expect a high-energy pup that is adventurous and loves spending time with you. This breed is stubborn, even at an earlier age, and can be very difficult to train, so it’s necessary to start training earlier and consistently.
American English Coonhound Food
Establishing a nutritious diet can help prevent common health issues. Puppies and adults need diverse kinds and quantities of food to stay healthy.
Puppy Food
High-quality puppy food with protein in the form of meats and vegetables that build developing muscles and solid bones. Protein is an essential ingredient in fighting against dysplasia.
Vitamin C is necessary for healthy eyes and vision and can help prevent cataracts. An average amount of fat gives puppies energy while helping to maintain their average weight. A puppy should be given 1 to 2 cups of food twice daily.
Adult Dog Food
An adult dog needs high-quality food with protein from meat, such as chicken. Protein in adult dog food also helps to prevent dysplasia.
An average amount of fat in an adult dog’s diet does not add excess weight to its athletic body. Vitamins A and C are essential for the eye fitness. Adult dogs take 2 to 3 cups of diet three times a day.
American English Coonhound Lifespan
The American English Coonhound’s typical lifespan is 11 to 12 years. Before taking one home, you should spend over a decade with it.
American English Coonhound Price
Buying a puppy is typically between $800 and $1,200, but some breeders take less or more. Some trustworthy breeders may also take up to $2,000. The time of the year may also factor into prices, as many hunters buy puppies ahead of training seasons for hunting specific animals.
American English Coonhounds Popular Names
- Darby
- Xena
- Gracie
- Daisy
- Rusty
- Jethro
- Barney
Male vs. Female
Males are slightly larger than females. Females frequently mature earlier than males, making it easier to train when young. As they age, females may start to show stubbornness, while males may be more sympathetic to training in adulthood.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Are American English Coonhounds good pets?
Though not as lovely as other breeds, they like to play with their owners and are decent with children. These dogs get along very well with other dogs and are reasonably open to foreigners. As these dogs have a comparatively protective nature, they can be watchdogs for the house.
Do American English Coonhounds bark a lot?
American English Coonhounds are charming when off duty but obstinate and persistent in chasing ring-tailed prey. Their work drive, energy, and barking make this breed a bad fit as house pets for beginner owners.
Are American English Coonhounds smart?
American English Coonhounds are very clever, prey-ambitious dogs, so they like to hunt small animals like raccoons. They are high-energy but very fragrant once you get to distinguish them. If trained properly, they can be abundant dogs.
How much do American English Coonhounds cost?
The average price to buy a puppy is between $800 and $1,200, but some breeders take less or more. Some reliable breeders may also take up to $2,000. The veterinary costs of this breed range from $100 to $300 per year, contingent on what amenities are required. The food costs of this dog breed range from $100 to $150 per month, depending on the brand the owner goes with.
Can American English Coonhounds be aggressive?
They will follow straight if left unattended off a harness. With other dogs, they become aggressive if humans are not present. At the right time, they may be corrected for offensive behavior. These dogs can become relaxed, dedicated, and protective and are excessive with an active family.
Are American English Coonhounds intelligent?
They are brilliant and eager to learn. These hounds love to gratify their people but also have a persistent, independent nature. This can make them look difficult to a trainer who does not recognize their brain.
Are American English Coonhounds easy to train?
These night hunters need too much attention and exercise; they howl long and loud if left alone. They are friendly and devoted, but training is difficult due to their high prey-drive ability. If you have time, persistence, and patience, you can train these hounds for family life.
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