10 things to know before owning a Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound was initially bred in the United States to hunt raccoons and other small games. 

If you are considering getting a Black and Tan Coonhound breed, you should know a few things to ensure this is the right breed!

Here are 10 things you need to consider! 

They need regular grooming.

Black and Tan Coonhounds shed moderately, so they need regular brushing to keep their coats free of tangles and matting. They must be bathed only when required to avoid stripping their coat of their natural oils and to keep it soft and shiny.  

These dogs need their nails to be trimmed regularly to avoid discomfort. You must also check and clean their droopy ears regularly to prevent infections. 

This breed is active and high-energy.

This breed is known for its high energy level and needs plenty of exercises. Daily walks and playtime are a must to keep them healthy and happy. 

The Black and Tan Coonhound may become bored and destructive without sufficient exercise. To help you meet your pup's exercise needs, you can try setting up playdates, incorporating mental stimulations in their training, and many more. 

They are not a good fit for you if you cannot give them the necessary attention and activity. Remember, a well-exercised pup is a happy pup!

Black and Tan Coonhounds are intelligent, but they can be stubborn.

These canines need consistent training from a young age to be well-behaved. Black and Tan Coonhound dogs respond well to praise and rewards. It is equally vital to socialize them with other dogs and people, as they can be wary of strangers.

Mental stimulation is also vital for these intelligent dogs. It could be through puzzle toys or agility training to keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom. 

This breed has a strong prey drive.

Because of this, keeping them on a leash or in a securely fenced area is necessary to prevent these dogs from chasing after small animals and wildlife. Because of their prey drive, some Black and Tan Coonhound also exhibit high aggression towards other dogs.

They also have a great sense of smell and are known for their tracking abilities. Black and Tan Coonhounds are often used for search and rescue missions due to their strong sense of smell and self-determination. 

Black and Tan Coonhounds need socialization from a young age.

Early socialization and training can help curb aggressive tendencies and ensure that your dog is well-behaved around other animals. You also need to provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to help satisfy their natural instincts.

You can also try incorporating activities like scent work or tracking into their daily routine to keep them engaged and happy. 

They can be prone to specific health issues.

If you are considering getting this dog breed, you must be aware of potential health risks, such as hip dysplasia and ear infections. However, these health issues can be prevented or managed with proper care and attention, regular check-ups with your vet, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercises.

Black and Tan Coonhounds have a lifespan of around 10-12 years, so owning one can be a long commitment. 

Black and Tan Coonhounds are known for their loud baying bark.

This is part of their natural characteristic, but it can be problematic if you have close neighbors or live in an apartment. However, with proper training and socialization, Black and Tan Coonhounds can learn to control their barking behavior. Here are some tips to help with excessive barking.

This breed can grow quite large.

Male Black and Tan Coonhound can weigh up to 75 pounds.  Their large size also means they need enough space to move around comfortably.

This means they're not ideal for small apartments or homes with limited space. A spacious yard or outdoor area is suitable for these larger dogs to run, play, and get exercise. Ensure the area is securely fenced to prevent them from wandering off and getting lost.

They are great family pets.

Black and Tan Coonhounds are known to be friendly and affectionate with their families, making them great pets for households with children.

Despite their size, Black and Tan Coonhounds are known for their gentle nature and are often good with other pets in the household as long as they are properly socialized from an early age.

Summary

The Black and Tan Coonhound breed is a fantastic dog for any active family that will indeed thrive when given proper care and attention. You must provide them with all their needs and ensure that they grow up healthy, happy, and well-mannered dogs. These dogs will surely bring you joy and love for many years!