Bluetick Coonhound

Group: Hound
Lifespan: 11-12 Years
Pups per Litter: 4-5
Average Weight: 45-80 lbs.
Average Height: 20-27 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: High
Temperment with: Children Not RecommendedOther Dogs Not Recommended Other Animals Not Recommended

History

The Bluetick Coonhound was thought to have been originated in Louisiana. This breed was created by breeding together a Cur, English Coonhound, and Foxhound and has been traced back to the bleu Gascoigne French hounds.

Traits

The Bluetick Coonhound is a great companion and tracking dog. They are loyal and affectionate with their family. The Bluetick is good with children, but should be monitored or just not be in contact with other smaller family pets, as its job is to hunt and track down smaller animals by instinct. When meeting new people, this breed will sniff them until they are satisfied and some will even howl at them which is not a form of aggression, but just the dog letting them know they are still unsure. This breed is very driven and usually hunts or tracks raccoons and foxes. They are known well for their howl which alerts the master that the prey has been found!

Appearance

Weighing in at 45-80 lbs (20-36 kgs) and averaging 20-27 inches high, the Bluetick Coonhound is unique and strong. The body is muscular and athletic, and the paws of the dog are described as round and cat like. The coat is short yet hard. The colouring is what makes this dog distinct. The Bluetick is white with “ticking” of a cobalt blue, making the coat look speckled. The legs are a tan colouring and the speckling starts at the elbows of the dog. The head of the dog is large and they have very loose jowls. The ears are very large and floppy and the eyes are deep-set. The tail of the dog is long and comes to a point.

Health

The Bluetick Coonhound has no major ailments. Owners are encouraged to monitor their ears, as they can become infected if the dog goes in and out of water often.

Training

The Bluetick Coonhound is an active dog. They need very clear, consistent training from puppy hood. They are known for being not responsive to their owners if they are following a scent, so all training should be done on leash or in a fenced in area because like all hounds do, they could catch a smell and follow it! The Bluetick would excel in tracking and agility trials.

Care

The Bluetick is a low maintenance breed. Their coat is short and hard, so brushing once every week or two is good. Special attention to their ears is a must because they are so large and could be prone to infection.

Breed

This breed is categorized in the Hound Group. They would not do well in an apartment as they require more space and access to either a backyard or a park. A fenced in yard or park would be preferable as they will follow any scent that pleases them to wherever that is. The average lifespan of the Bluetick is 11-12 years. The have on average 4-5 pups per litter. When obtaining a baby Bluetick, , keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!

Reference pages for Information:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bluetick_Coonhound Bluetick Coonhound Information
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/bluetick.htm Bluetick Coonhound Breed Information
http://www.akc.org/breeds/bluetick_coonhound/ Bluetick Coonhound AKC Standards
http://www.continentalkennelclub.com/Ads.aspx?BreedNum=49 Bluetick Coonhound Continental Club
https://www.netpets.org/dogs/dogresc/breeds/dogbtk_hnd.html Bluetick Coonhound Rescue