Origin
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a breed of dog, believed to have descended from the Talbot Hound. Others say that it was a cross between the Talbot Hound (which was known in England as far back as the 11th century and is now extinct) and the Bloodhound.
Another theory was that it was developed by crossing the Talbot Hound and the Black and Tan Foxhound.
These dogs have been used to hunt deer, bear, cougar and other big game, even though many US states are restricting the hunting of antlered animals with dogs.
Owned by scouts and Indian fighters during the late 1700′s, the Black and Tan was the first coonhound to be considered a separate breed from the American Foxhound. The Black and Tan Wolfhound was recognized by the AKC in 1945.
Traits and Behavior
Even though they were used to hunt and track down people, they are not aggressive. Bloodhounds were bred to search and rescue people without harming them. This breed is very affectionate, especially to its family.
They are also great around children. Because of this friendly and affectionate nature, Bloodhounds are not suitable guard dogs.
This dog is quite adamant at tracking scents. They would tirelessly keep at a scent for hours even on rough terrains and weather.
Although intelligent, their stubbornness makes them quite challenging to train. They are an independent breed that doesn’t like to be told what to do and don’t listen to commands well.
Training this breed needs patience and extra effort. One trick to help with training a Bloodhound is food. This breed does well with food-based reward training.
This breed shows little to no aggression towards other dogs and non-canine animals. However, it is not uncommon that they show aggression towards same-sex dogs.
But with training and socialization, this behavior can be prevented.
Pet Care and Diseases
Black and Tan Coonhounds need long hours of physical and mental stimulation. It is because of their high energy and durable nature. If their exercise requirements aren’t met, they can become destructive.
This breed is well known for being chewers, and they would chew about anything, especially if bored.
Black and Tan Coonhounds don’t need any professional grooming. Regular brushing and baths are sufficient. However, their wrinkles and droopy ears require special attention.
Moisture that is trapped in between the folds of their skin can harbor bacteria and may develop into an infection. The same can happen inside their ears.
Owners should carefully dry the wrinkles after baths and check the ears for dirt regularly.
They have a life expectancy of up to 10 years. Unfortunately, they suffer from various diseases common in most purebred dogs.
They are susceptible to infection, bloat, skeletal diseases, eye problems, and skin issues.
Appearance
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large, determined hunting hound. The head is well-proportioned to the body. The length of the Black and Tan’s body is equal to or slightly longer than the height of the dog at the withers.
The topline is level. The relatively long head has an oval outline. The muzzle is long. The stop is medium, between the nose and the back of the head. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The round looking eyes are hazel to dark brown. The long ears are set low, hanging, reaching beyond the tip of the nose.
The legs are long and straight. The nose is wide and black. The strong tail is carried freely. The dog’s skin fits loosely. The short, dense coat is black with distinct tan markings on the muzzle, limbs and chest.
General Information
The breed is expected to live for 10-12 years. A litter may consist of 7-8 puppies. American Black and Tan Coonhound is its other name.
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