The bluetick coonhound is a medium-large hound dog breed native to the United States that sports a trademark ticked pattern on their short, smooth coat. These dogs generally have a friendly, sweet, and loyal disposition. They are used both for hunting and companionship. Above all, this breed belongs in an active home where there is plenty of access to explore the outdoors. 

Here’s everything you need to know about this breed before bringing one home.

Characteristics of the Bluetick Coonhound

Bluetick coonhounds are large, muscular dogs, with females smaller than males. They tend to have a very affectionate temperament with their owners. They also can get along well with other dogs. But the high prey drive part of their personality might cause them to see other household pets as their quarry rather than a friend.

Also, bluetick coonhounds can be considered high-maintenance because they require a lot of attention. As high-energy dogs, they need lots of exercise every day. And they are known for being loud and vocal—referred to as “crooners,” they’ll bark, howl, bawl, and bay.

The bluetick coonhound may not be best for first-time dog owners, as they require proper training and plenty of physical activity that will allow them to release their energy in non-destructive ways.

History of the Bluetick Coonhound

Bluetick coonhounds were developed in the United States, and their bloodline dates back even prior to the founding of the country. They are said to descend from French hounds that were gifted to George Washington. The English foxhound, as well as some other hound breeds, are also thought to have played a role in the bluetick coonhound’s development.

The result was a big scent hound with good endurance and an excellent nose for the hunting trail. Frontiersmen used the breed for raccoon hunting, hence its name, as well as big-game hunting. The dogs work well in packs.

The breed has been recognized by other kennel clubs for decades, such as the United Kennel Club in 1946. But the American Kennel Club didn’t recognize it until 2009. Even so, it is a moderately popular dog breed throughout the U.S. and is even the mascot of the University of Tennessee.

Bluetick Coonhound Care

Bluetick coonhounds require lots of activity, along with proper training and socialization, to be happy and healthy dogs. Their desire to follow a scent also must be managed. Luckily, their grooming needs are fairly easy and straightforward. 

Exercise

As hunting dogs, bluetick coonhounds are bred to have high energy and endurance. So adequate daily physical activity is a must to burn that energy. Aim to spend at least one to two hours per day on brisk walks, jogs, hikes, and play. You also can get your dog involved in dog sports, such as tracking and agility, to challenge them mentally and physically. 

Because they are scent hounds, bluetick coonhounds will enjoy spending time in natural places, such as in the woods, where they can be active and use their nose to catch and track a variety of scents. 

Always keep your dog on leash or in a secure fenced area when exercising. Once these dogs catch a scent, it’s extremely difficult to stop their desire to follow it, and they can quickly get far away. They also can be good escape artists, so it’s best to monitor them even if they’re in a fenced area.

Grooming

The short, shiny coat of a bluetick coonhound has a moderate shedding rate. Routine basic grooming is typically all that’s necessary to keep your coonhound looking their best. Brush weekly to remove loose fur and distribute oils. 

Plan on a bath roughly every month, depending on how dirty your dog has gotten. Likewise, check whether they need a nail trim monthly (active dogs often wear down their nails naturally and can go longer between trims). 

Moreover, like all breeds with floppy ears, it’s important to keep your dog’s ears clean and dry. Check them at least weekly for any dirt, debris, redness, swelling, or other abnormalities. 

Training

These dogs respond to training fairly well, though they can have a stubborn side. Aim to start training when your dog is still a puppy. A large, strong, energetic adult coonhound with poor manners can be difficult to manage.

Always use positive training methods, and be consistent in your training cues. Enroll in an obedience class as soon as you’re able. Also, taking part in other dog activities, such as tracking, can help strengthen your bond with your dog. 

Socialization is equally important to training. Ideally from a young age, expose your dog to different people, other dogs, and various locations to boost their comfort and confidence. Blueticks that don’t get enough attention might develop problematic behaviors, including excessively using their booming hound bay. They’re best for households where someone is home most of the day, and they will generally also enjoy the company of another dog.

Common Health Problems

Bluetick coonhounds are a healthy dog breed in general. But they are prone to some hereditary health conditions, including:

• Bloat: Also known as gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV), this condition occurs when the stomach fills up with fluid, gas, or food. The stomach twists, creating a life-threatening emergency.
• Ear infections: Bacteria and fungi can cause ear infections, resulting in pain, inflammation, redness, and other symptoms. If an infection gets deep into the ear, it can cause serious harm.
• Hip dysplasia: This orthopedic problem is common in large dog breeds. The hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to symptoms like pain, exercise intolerance, limping, and difficulty jumping.
• Elbow dysplasia: Some dogs inherit this condition, which is also common in large breeds. The bones in the elbows don’t develop properly, leading to symptoms like limping, swelling in the elbows, reluctance to move, and holding the elbows at a strange angle. 
• Eye problems: Conditions like cataracts, in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), in which cells in the retina are damaged, can lead to vision loss. Other conditions, like entropion and ectropion, affect the eyelids.   
  

Diet and Nutrition

Always have fresh water accessible to your dog. And feed a quality, nutritionally balanced canine diet. Discuss the type of diet and quantity with your vet, as this can vary based on age, activity level, and other factors. Also, be mindful about feeding treats and other foods to prevent your dog from overeating. Maintaining your bluetick coonhound at a healthy weight is important, as obesity can increase the risk of other diseases, and excess weight could lead to joint problems.

Moreover, if your coonhound tends to eat quickly, this can trigger bloat. You might do better feeding smaller meals more frequently or using a food puzzle to slowly dispense the meal. Most owners feed two measured meals per day—that way, the dog won’t eat too much at one time.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Bluetick Coonhound

If you’re looking for a breeder puppy, expect to pay around $1,000 on average, though this can vary widely depending on bloodline and other factors.

Check local animal shelters and breed-specific rescue groups for a bluetick coonhound in need of a home. For more information to connect you with a bluetick coonhound, check out:

• National Bluetick Coonhound Association
• Bluetick Breeders of America
• Bluetick Coonhound Rescue
  

Bluetick Coonhound Overview

The bluetick coonhound has a lot of attractive attributes, and can make the perfect loyal companion that you’re looking for. However, these active dogs need a lot of attention and plenty of exercise, and might not be the best choice for a home with other pets because of their strong prey drive.

Pros of bluetick coonhounds

• Sweet and loyal
• Low grooming maintenance
• Typically gets along well with other dogs
  

Cons of bluetick coonhounds

• Can be very vocal
• Can be stubborn and challenging to train
• Needs lots of exercise
  

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

Be sure to do adequate research before bringing home a bluetick coonhound. Speak to veterinarians, bluetick coonhound owners, reputable breeders, and hound rescue groups to learn more.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• Redbone coonhound
• Beagle
• Basset hound

There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!