Have you ever heard of a breed that can count presidents and kings amongst their original owners? Meet the Walker Coonhound. This noble breed of dogs, bred originally as hunting dogs, have a sparkling history that includes former US presidents like Thomas Jefferson. And even King Louis XVI of France had a part to play in the evolution of this breed when he gifted some French hounds to George Washington! Yes, these dogs do have royal roots indeed.
Walker Coonhounds, named after John W. Walker – a Kentucky breeder in the 19th century, are a unique combination of strength, speed, and incredible scent tracking abilities. But their abilities extend beyond their hunting prowess. You ask, are these dogs a good addition to the family? With the Walker Coonhound, the answer is a resounding “Yes”! While their ancestry may portray them as working dogs, they are exceptionally good family pets too. So, let’s dig a little deeper and show you why Walker Coonhounds could be a great family dog for you!
Walker Coonhounds are not just handsome dogs, they’re also good-natured and friendly. They are known for their unwavering loyalty and devoted companionship, qualities that most families appreciate in a pet. These dogs have a great love for people and enjoy the company of humans. So, if you have a family that loves spending quality time together, these dogs will never shy away from being a part of it. They are looking for a generous dose of love and affection and will give it back doubly if they receive it.
Families with kids will find them to be great playmates. Loved for their patient and gentle nature, Walker Coonhounds are incredibly good with children. They’ll happily join all the fun, games and antics, and due to their friendly nature, will fit right in. However, like with any dog, it’s important to supervise interactions between toddlers and any breed of dog to ensure both parties are respectful and safe.
On the flip side, Walker Coonhounds are an active breed with a lot of stamina and need a fair amount of exercise. Families leading an active, outdoor lifestyle will fall in love with these dogs. They’ll be your best companion for long walks, hikes, or even a run around the neighborhood. They’ll match your pace and keep you motivated with their exuberant display of energy. Plus, keeping them exercised also keeps their naturally sharp minds sharp, preventing them from getting bored and taking their energy out on your favorite pair of shoes.
Many families worry about introducing a dog to a home with other pets. But with a Walker Coonhound, you can have peace of mind. Raised to hunt in packs, they are generally friendly towards other dogs. Beginning socialization early will pave the way for a generally positive relationship with other household pets. It’s good to remember, though, because of their strong hunting instincts, they might chase smaller pets in the beginning. Proper training and socializing early will help curb this behavior effectively.
Interestingly, training a Walker Coonhound is both fun and challenging. They are intelligent dogs and learn quickly. However, they possess an independent streak, which often gets interpreted as stubbornness. As a family, incorporating a firm but gentle training approach with a lot of positive reinforcements would work best. Also, they’re known to respond well to praise and treats (who wouldn’t?), so keep a stash handy!
One thing to keep in mind is these dogs are quite vocal or “talkative”. They’re known for their distinctive bugle-like call or bay inherited from their hound ancestors. Training from an early age could help control excessive barking, but if you live in close quarters where noise could be a problem, you might want to consider this aspect.
Lastly, when it comes to health, Walker Coonhounds are a sturdy and healthy breed with few major health issues. Regular veterinarian check-ups and a good diet contribute majorly towards their good health and longevity.
So, if we review all we’ve learned about Walker Coonhounds, they tick quite a few boxes as good family dogs. They are loyal, friendly, great with kids, and get along well with other pets. They’re active, love outdoor activities, and are also amiable housemates. Remember though, like any breed, they require effort and care in terms of exercise, training, and mental stimulation. They yearn for companionship and don’t enjoy being left alone for extended periods.
In conclusion, if you’re a family with an active lifestyle and plenty of time to devote to a high energy, loving pet, the Walker Coonhound could be an amazing addition to your clan. A little love, attention, exercise, and training could help your Walker Coonhound become not just a pet, but a loving, integrated member of your family! With their endearing personalities and loyal companionship, they will add unmatched joy and laughter to your family life – making every day adventurous, entertaining and memorable! So yes, The Walker Coonhound can indeed be a good family dog!
