Origin
The Bluetick Coonhound is an American breed that has its roots back in colonial times.
It is the state dog of Tennessee (the place where it came from).
The modern Bluetick’s color indicates that it descended from the Bleu de Gascogne hound of southwest France, as well as the English Foxhound, the cur dog, the American Foxhound, and the Black And Tan Virginia Foxhound.
Originally, the Bluetick Coonhound was collectively called the English Coonhound by the UKC, which included the Bluetick, Treeing Walker and English Coonhounds.
These breeds later have been separated and in 2009, the Bluetick Coonhound was officially recognized by the AKC in the Miscellaneous Class.
Traits and Behavior
Bluetick Coonhounds have a mild temperament. They are affectionate with their family and friendly with strangers.
They are not aggressive which makes them not ideal guard dogs. This dog is usually kept as a companion or a family pet.
Since they are used to being in a pack, these hounds are not aggressive towards other dogs. However, dominance may occur when not properly socialized.
Because of their hunting instincts, Bluetick Coonhounds tend to chase and hunt noncanine animals, especially the large ones. With proper socialization and training, this can be controlled.
Like a typical hound, this dog has a great sense of smell. They are good trackers and would tirelessly keep at a trail of scent for hours.
They are also independent and stubborn which makes them adamant and focused on a scent.
However, this independence and stubbornness make them challenging to train. But it doesn’t mean that they can’t be trained. This intelligent breed needs a trainer with a lot of patience.
Pet Care and Diseases
This high-energy dog needs vigorous exercise to stay healthy and happy. They require a minimum of 45 minutes of intense activity regularly. They also need a wide area to roam and run, and enclosing them in a tight space (like an apartment) is not good.
If not met, this breed tends to be bored and destructive. When exercising, it is important to keep Bluetick Coonhounds from overheating.
This breed doesn’t require any special grooming maintenance. They just need regular brushing. To remove the dead hair, a comb or a rubber glove may be used.
The Bluetick Coonhounds are generally strong and healthy. However, they do have genetic and hereditary problems that need to be identified immediately.
Having your dog checked by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and/or the Canine Eye Registration Foundation is important if you are thinking of breeding. They are prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts and Krabbe disease.
Appearance
The Bluetick Coonhound appears to be a speedy and well-muscled hound. Males typically stand around 22-27 inches tall and weigh approximately 55-88 pounds, while the females stand only around 20-25 inches tall and weigh 45-65 pounds.
It has a broad head and a domed skull. The keen round eyes are large in size and brown in color. The coat is moderately coarse and glossy.
It has a dark blue color with a thickly mottled body. Black spots can be seen in the back area, ears and sides of its body. Also, tan-colored markings may be present.
General Information
The estimated life expectancy for this breed is about 11-12 years. The average litter size is approximately 7-8 puppies.
The Bluetick Coonhound was originally called the English Coonhound, but this name was changed in 1946.
Breed Club
Visit this dog club website dedicated to Bluetick Coonhounds. Click this link: http://www.bluetickbreedersofamerica.com/