About Bluetick Coonhounds

Bluetick coonhounds are known for their ability to track and corner animals such as raccoons, opossums, cougars and even bears. In fact, the "coon" in coonhound comes from the breed's ability to track and tree raccoons using their sense of smell. When bluetick coonhounds corner their game in a tree, they call out to their owners with a bawling bark to signal a successful capture. Since bluetick coonhounds have a keen sense of smell and excellent eyesight, they can hunt prey with ease during the day or night.

  1. Breed Origins

    • Bluetick coonhounds may be descended from a cross between the Grand Blue de Gascogne of France and the English Foxhound. When this breed originally arrived in America, it was known as the English coonhound. Breeders in the Louisiana area wanted to maintain a line of coonhounds that hunt with a cold nose. A cold-nose scent hound has the ability to track older scents that may have a weaker or cold trail. The English coonhound line in England decided to breed a hot-nose line that would be faster at tracking prey but less likely to pick up on colder scents. In 1945, American breeders broke off into their own group. English coonhounds were then bred with other breeds such as American Foxhounds and the Black and Tan Virginia Foxhounds. Bluetick coonhounds arose as a result of this breeding for a cold-nosed coonhound in America.

    Appearance and Size

    • Bluetick coonhounds get their name from their dark blue coat pattern covered in a speckled or ticked pattern. There may or may not be tan markings around the eyes, cheeks and chest. The bluetick coonhound's short, dense fur lies close to the body and has a smooth, glossy look. The breed standard is 22 to 27 inches tall for males and 21 to 25 inches tall for females. Males weigh in around 55 to 80 lbs. while females range from 45 to 65 lbs. Bluetick coonhounds should look muscular and speedy, carrying their head and tail upright when moving.

    Temperament

    • Bluetick coonhounds are loyal, intelligent and hard-working dogs that enjoy hunting, obedience and agility trials. They make good companion dogs and do well living indoors where they can be part of the family. A gentle, loyal breed, bluetick coonhounds do well around children and family. Their hunting and tracking instinct makes them less trustworthy around cats and other pets as well as wild animals such as raccoons, squirrels and opossums. Because of their keen sense of smell and excellent eyesight, bluetick coonhounds should be leashed or contained in a fenced backyard to keep them from wandering after whatever catches their interest.

    Exercise

    • Bluetick coonhounds are active dogs that benefit from long, brisk walks each day. Since they were bred to track and follow prey for hours, they don't tire easily and need vigorous exercise to keep their minds and bodies busy. They do best in large fenced yards where they can stretch their legs and run.

    Grooming

    • Brush the coat once a week with a medium bristled brush and shampoo as needed to keep coat clean and shiny. Pay special attention to the ears to keep them clean and free of dirt and bacteria that may cause infection.

    Life Expectancy and Common Health Problems

    • Most bluetick coonhounds live about 10 to 12 years. Overall, the bluetick coonhound is a very healthy breed. Common health problems include hip dysplasia, cataracts, Krabbes disease and bloat.