AMERICAN B&T COONHOUND Breed Standards
It is believed that the Black and Tan Coonhound descended from the Bloodhound and the Talbot hound, which had already been developed by the time of William the Conqueror. The breed was then developed from the Virginia Foxhound, bred for its color and superb sense of smell. It originated in the Ozark, Blue Ridge, Appalachian and Smokey Mountains in the southeastern United States. During the late 1700s, it was popular among Indian fighters and scouts. It is known for its exceptional ability to track scents even under the worst conditions, and is a successful hunter of raccoon, bear, deer, and mountain lion, even over rough terrain.
The Black and Tan Coonhound was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1945. Today, there are two varieties of the Black and Tan Coonhound: field and show. The show variety tends to be bigger and calmer, while the field variety is still used for hunting.
SKILLS: The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large, powerful dog. The Black and Tan Coonhound is first and fundamentally a working dog, a trail and tree hound, capable of withstanding the rigors of winter, the heat of summer, and the difficult terrain over which he is called upon to work. Used principally for trailing and treeing raccoon, the Black and Tan Coonhound runs his game entirely by scent. The characteristics and courage of the Coonhound also make him proficient on the hunt for deer, bear, mountain lion and other big game. Judges are asked by the club sponsoring the breed to place great emphasis upon these facts when evaluating the merits of the dog. The general impression is that of power, agility and alertness. He immediately impresses one with his ability to cover the ground with powerful rhythmic strides.
SIZE: Height: 23-27 inches (58-68 cm.) Weight: 50-75 pounds (45-64 kg.)
COAT: The short, sleek coat is black with tan markings on the muzzle, limbs, and chest. The graceful droop of loosely fitting skin and extensive ear leather give the Black and Tan a distinctive quality.
CARE REQUIRED: An occasional brushing will due. In order to keep the ears clean and infection-free, regular attention is a must.
CHARACTER: A quick-to-follow, intelligent, loyal and good-natured hunter and companion, the Black and Tan Coonhound pleases hunter and owner alike. The Black and Tan is an alert and eager dog who is very dedicated to his work. Some sources say this passionate worker is a bit aggressive, but will listen to his master. Other sources say he is gentle and friendly with people. Some individuals are protective and are a bit reserved with strangers. They are usually best with older considerate children. Sometimes they can play rough. This dog can be willful, requiring firm, patient and on-going training. They may howl if they are left alone too much. Do not let this breed off the leash in an unsafe area, as they may take off after an interesting scent. Some Black and Tan tend to be aggressive with other strange dogs. There are two types of Black and Tan Coonhounds: show and field. The show types are a bit larger and maybe somewhat less energetic and work oriented, and therefore tend to make better pets. This breed drools and slobbers.
EXERCISE: Vigorous daily exercise is needed.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: The Black and Tan Coonhound is not recommended for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard.
TRAINING: The Black and Tan Coonhounds talent's include hunting, tracking, watchdogging, and agility
