Dog Breeds - Bluetick Coonhound

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of fondness a particular breed is likely to display towards family members or other familiar individuals. Certain breeds may appear distant and reserved towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to exhibit a friendly demeanor towards all the people they are acquainted with considering them as their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
A breed's capacity for tolerance and patience with children's behavior as well as its overall family-friendly nature play a crucial role in assessing its suitability for households with young children. It is always essential to supervise dogs around young children especially if the children have limited exposure to dogs. Some breeds naturally exhibit a higher level of compatibility with children and possess the necessary patience and adaptability to thrive in a family setting.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The inherent sociability of a breed towards other dogs defines how amicable they are likely to be in their interactions and introductions. While it is important to supervise dogs during such encounters certain breeds have a natural tendency to be more compatible with other dogs both within their home environment and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that a breed typically sheds can vary significantly. Breeds with high shedding tendencies often require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Additionally, these breeds are more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals and may necessitate consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean. It is important to consider the shedding levels of a breed when choosing a dog to ensure compatibility with your household and individual preferences.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming requirements of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other types of coat maintenance can vary greatly. It is important to consider your available time, patience, and budget for grooming when selecting a breed. Some breeds may require frequent bathing and meticulous coat care such as regular brushing or trimming requiring more time and financial commitment. On the other hand, all breeds will need regular nail trimming for proper foot care. Assessing your grooming capabilities and preferences will help you find a breed that aligns with your desired grooming effort.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool can vary significantly and it's an important factor to consider, especially for individuals who prefer a clean and tidy environment. Some breeds are more prone to drooling and may leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create big wet spots on your clothes. If you are a neat freak and find such drooling behavior undesirable, it may be best to choose a breed with lower drooling tendencies. This will help ensure that you are comfortable and satisfied with your choice of dog in terms of maintaining cleanliness in your daily life.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary significantly. Certain breeds are naturally reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals regardless of the setting. They may require more time to warm up and may be less inclined to approach or interact with strangers. On the other hand, some breeds are generally more welcoming and happy to meet new people whenever an opportunity arises. These breeds tend to be more outgoing and may readily engage with strangers. Considering a breed's tendencies towards strangers can help you find a dog that aligns with your preferences and expectations in terms of social interactions.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among breeds even beyond their puppyhood stage. Some breeds have a natural tendency to maintain a high level of playfulness throughout their adulthood. They may continue to enjoy games like tug-of-war or fetch and actively seek out playtime with their owners. On the other hand, certain breeds have a more relaxed disposition and are content with spending quality time lounging on the couch with their owners rather than engaging in high-energy play. Understanding a breed's inclination towards play can help you find a dog that matches your preferred activity level and playstyle.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The tendency of a breed to alert you to the presence of strangers can vary. Some breeds are naturally more alert and vigilant readily reacting to any potential threat or unfamiliar presence be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds have a heightened sense of awareness and are more likely to sound the alarm or exhibit protective behaviors. However, it's worth noting that their response to strangers may differ depending on whether they are entering the house as guests accepted by the family. In such cases, these breeds are more likely to warm up to strangers once they are recognized as being accepted by their family. Understanding a breed's inclination to alertness can help you find a dog that aligns with your desired level of vigilance and response to potential threats.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are naturally more flexible and adaptable making it easier for them to adjust to various changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily routines. These breeds tend to be more resilient and can cope well with variations in day-to-day life. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more sensitive to changes and may require more time and support to adapt to new circumstances. When considering a breed, it is important to assess their ability to handle change based on your lifestyle and the potential changes that may occur in your environment.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
Discover the ease with which you can train your beloved canine companion and witness their unwavering enthusiasm for learning new skills. Certain breeds are inherently motivated to please their owners, while others display a preference for independent decision-making, embracing their freedom to act as they wish, whenever and wherever they desire.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
Understanding a breed's exercise requirements and mental stimulation is crucial. High-energy breeds exhibit a strong desire to embark on new adventures and eagerly await their next thrilling experience. These active companions will fill their day with activities such as running, jumping, and indulging in play. On the other hand, low-energy breeds can be compared to couch potatoes content with lounging around and enjoying extended periods of restful slumber.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalizations varies among dog breeds. Some breeds are known to vocalize frequently, either through barking or howling. These dogs tend to bark at various stimuli, such as people passing by or birds appearing at the window. However, other breeds only bark on specific occasions or in response to certain situations. It's worth noting that there are also breeds classified as "barkless" but they may still express themselves through alternative sounds or vocalizations.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
To ensure the happiness and overall health of purpose-bred dogs providing them with sufficient mental stimulation is crucial. These breeds are often known for their intelligence and skills in various tasks that require decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other mental abilities. Without regular mental exercise, these dogs may become restless and seek alternative ways to occupy their minds often resulting in undesirable behaviors or destructive tendencies.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of fondness a particular breed is likely to display towards family members or other familiar individuals. Certain breeds may appear distant and reserved towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to exhibit a friendly demeanor towards all the people they are acquainted with considering them as their closest companions.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

A breed's capacity for tolerance and patience with children's behavior as well as its overall family-friendly nature play a crucial role in assessing its suitability for households with young children. It is always essential to supervise dogs around young children especially if the children have limited exposure to dogs. Some breeds naturally exhibit a higher level of compatibility with children and possess the necessary patience and adaptability to thrive in a family setting.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The inherent sociability of a breed towards other dogs defines how amicable they are likely to be in their interactions and introductions. While it is important to supervise dogs during such encounters certain breeds have a natural tendency to be more compatible with other dogs both within their home environment and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair that a breed typically sheds can vary significantly. Breeds with high shedding tendencies often require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Additionally, these breeds are more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals and may necessitate consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean. It is important to consider the shedding levels of a breed when choosing a dog to ensure compatibility with your household and individual preferences.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming requirements of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other types of coat maintenance can vary greatly. It is important to consider your available time, patience, and budget for grooming when selecting a breed. Some breeds may require frequent bathing and meticulous coat care such as regular brushing or trimming requiring more time and financial commitment. On the other hand, all breeds will need regular nail trimming for proper foot care. Assessing your grooming capabilities and preferences will help you find a breed that aligns with your desired grooming effort.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool can vary significantly and it's an important factor to consider, especially for individuals who prefer a clean and tidy environment. Some breeds are more prone to drooling and may leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create big wet spots on your clothes. If you are a neat freak and find such drooling behavior undesirable, it may be best to choose a breed with lower drooling tendencies. This will help ensure that you are comfortable and satisfied with your choice of dog in terms of maintaining cleanliness in your daily life.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary significantly. Certain breeds are naturally reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals regardless of the setting. They may require more time to warm up and may be less inclined to approach or interact with strangers. On the other hand, some breeds are generally more welcoming and happy to meet new people whenever an opportunity arises. These breeds tend to be more outgoing and may readily engage with strangers. Considering a breed's tendencies towards strangers can help you find a dog that aligns with your preferences and expectations in terms of social interactions.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among breeds even beyond their puppyhood stage. Some breeds have a natural tendency to maintain a high level of playfulness throughout their adulthood. They may continue to enjoy games like tug-of-war or fetch and actively seek out playtime with their owners. On the other hand, certain breeds have a more relaxed disposition and are content with spending quality time lounging on the couch with their owners rather than engaging in high-energy play. Understanding a breed's inclination towards play can help you find a dog that matches your preferred activity level and playstyle.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The tendency of a breed to alert you to the presence of strangers can vary. Some breeds are naturally more alert and vigilant readily reacting to any potential threat or unfamiliar presence be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds have a heightened sense of awareness and are more likely to sound the alarm or exhibit protective behaviors. However, it's worth noting that their response to strangers may differ depending on whether they are entering the house as guests accepted by the family. In such cases, these breeds are more likely to warm up to strangers once they are recognized as being accepted by their family. Understanding a breed's inclination to alertness can help you find a dog that aligns with your desired level of vigilance and response to potential threats.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are naturally more flexible and adaptable making it easier for them to adjust to various changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily routines. These breeds tend to be more resilient and can cope well with variations in day-to-day life. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more sensitive to changes and may require more time and support to adapt to new circumstances. When considering a breed, it is important to assess their ability to handle change based on your lifestyle and the potential changes that may occur in your environment.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

Discover the ease with which you can train your beloved canine companion and witness their unwavering enthusiasm for learning new skills. Certain breeds are inherently motivated to please their owners, while others display a preference for independent decision-making, embracing their freedom to act as they wish, whenever and wherever they desire.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

Understanding a breed's exercise requirements and mental stimulation is crucial. High-energy breeds exhibit a strong desire to embark on new adventures and eagerly await their next thrilling experience. These active companions will fill their day with activities such as running, jumping, and indulging in play. On the other hand, low-energy breeds can be compared to couch potatoes content with lounging around and enjoying extended periods of restful slumber.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Likes To Be Vocal

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

To ensure the happiness and overall health of purpose-bred dogs providing them with sufficient mental stimulation is crucial. These breeds are often known for their intelligence and skills in various tasks that require decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other mental abilities. Without regular mental exercise, these dogs may become restless and seek alternative ways to occupy their minds often resulting in undesirable behaviors or destructive tendencies.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Blue Ticked	379
Blue Ticked and Tan	527

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Spots	080

About The Breed

The Bluetick Coonhound is a visually striking and affectionate dog, known for its beauty and charm. While they can enjoy relaxing in the shade, their true nature emerges when they are on the hunt. With a relentless, bold, and single-minded approach, their prey drive is exceptionally high and needs proper direction. Bluetick Coonhounds are well-known for their sleek and compact build with a shiny coat displaying a mottled black-and-blue pattern. Males can reach up to 27 inches in height and weight around 80 pounds, while females are generally smaller. Their muscular physique is sleek and agile, devoid of any chunkiness or clumsiness.

Bluetick Coonhounds possess a distinctive vocalization style, consisting of baying, bawling, and chopping barks. While this symphony of sounds might be overwhelming to some, they are considered harmonious by coon hunters who appreciate it as the essence of the nocturnal pursuit. With their droopy ears and irresistible charm, Bluetick Coonhounds naturally gravitate towards human affection and are highly devoted to those who provide it.

Due to their strong prey drive, it is crucial to channel their instincts appropriately. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, Bluetick Coonhounds can display problematic behaviors like excessively vocalizing and serenading the neighbors with their loud and mournful "music." Providing them with sufficient outlets for their hardwired impulses is essential to prevent such issues from arising.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A BLUETICK COONHOUND

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Bluetick Coonhound: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The general healthiness of the Bluetick Coonhound breed is usually good. Any dog with a deep chest can potentially be prone to bloat, a sudden and critical condition where the stomach swells and in some cases twists resulting in a disruption of blood supply to vital organs. It is vital for owners to familiarize themselves with the symptoms indicating the occurrence of bloat and know necessary actions to take. Daily inspection for signs of infection is recommended for the Bluetick's droopy ears. Similarly, regular tooth brushing is advisable for all breeds. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: No recommended health test

Grooming

	The Bluetick Coonhound boasts a sleek and shiny coat that tends to shed moderately. To maintain their impeccable appearance, it is recommended to brush them on a weekly basis using a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt, or a hound glove. This will effectively eliminate any loose hairs. Unless they have encountered something particularly messy, occasional bathing is usually sufficient for Blueticks. Similarly to all dog breeds, it is important to regularly trim their nails to prevent discomfort and avoid issues with mobility. Long nails can cause pain and hinder their ability to walk or run smoothly.

Exercise

	Bluetick Coonhounds are originally bred as hunting dogs and therefore require ample exercise to stay happy and fulfilled. Although they have a penchant for snoozing at their owners' feet, they truly thrive when given opportunities for physical activity. Engaging in play sessions within a safely enclosed yard or taking them on extended walks while leashed will provide them with much-needed stimulation. It's important to keep in mind that Blueticks are scent hounds with a considerable prey drive, so appropriate measures should be taken to ensure their safety during outdoor activities. Apart from traditional hunting and field trials engaging them in canine sports such as agility and tracking can serve as excellent outlets to channel their energy effectively.

Training

	Similar to any breed, initiating early socialization and incorporating treats into the process can greatly assist in training a Bluetick.

Nutrition

	The Bluetick Coonhound can benefit from a high-quality diet, whether it is commercially produced or prepared at home with the guidance of a veterinarian. It is essential to ensure that the diet aligns with the dog's age, whether it's a puppy, adult, or senior. It's important to be cautious about weight gain as some dogs are prone to it. Monitoring calories and keeping track of the dog's weight is crucial. While treats can be beneficial for training, it's crucial not to overdo it as excessive treats can lead to obesity. Understanding which human foods are safe for dogs is also important. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or dietary requirements consulting a veterinarian is recommended. Lastly, providing a constant supply of clean and fresh water is essential for their well-being.

Historiography

Hound dogs, including the Bluetick Coonhound were specifically bred for hunting warm-blooded animals. Within the hound category, there are two main types: sighthounds and scent hounds. Sighthounds, such as Whippets and Greyhounds rely on their sharp eyesight and speed to spot and chase down prey. On the other hand, scent hounds like the Bluetick Coonhound, Beagle and Bloodhound, possess an exceptional sense of smell to track and locate their targets over long distances.

The Bluetick Coonhound like other coonhound breeds, originated in America. Its bloodlines can be traced back to a time before the country's establishment. According to historical accounts George Washington received French staghounds from the Marquis de Lafayette as a gift. These hefty dogs were well-suited for hunting on foot. Breeders later incorporated English foxhound and other hound breeds to create a highly resilient and meticulous hunter with a "cold nose." In coon-hunting terminology, a "cold nose" describes a dog capable of tracking scents that are several hours, or even days, old.

Early Bluetick Coonhounds were commonly used by frontiersmen in pursuit of raccoons. However, they were also utilized as pack hunters, taking on formidable game like bears, wild boars, lynxes, and cougars. In the early 20th century Fred Gipson renowned author of "Old Yeller" spoke of a distinguished line of Bluetick Coonhounds. These dogs possessed deep, booming voices noses that could pick up trails that were a week old immense endurance to trail for up to 30 hours consecutively and fearless bravery to confront any prey.

Over the years, the breed has undergone minimal changes since Gipson's time. Bluetick Coonhounds continue to be highly prized among coon hunters and remain prominent in Southern culture. Since 1953, the Bluetick Coonhound has been the official sports mascot of the University of Tennessee, further showcasing its significance and recognition.