Imagine for a moment, a dog comes barreling towards you, all a hundred pounds of him, tail wagging, brown eyes twinkling with affection. This is the Black and Tan Coonhound for you! They are scenthounds, bred to ‘trail and tree’ raccoons, meaning chase them up into trees and bark until the owner comes. Don’t worry if you don’t have raccoons in your neighborhood. Fortunately, there is more to these wonderful dogs than that!
Many potential dog owners worry about whether certain breeds are difficult. If we’re talking about the Black and Tan Coonhound, simple ‘yes or no’ doesn’t cut it. These dogs are a mixed bag of joyful companionship and some challenging traits.
Beginning with their history, these American pre-revolutionary dogs trace their lineage from the English Foxhound and the Bloodhound. They were famous for their tracking skills, able to follow cold trails well. That’s why they were primarily used for hunting raccoons, hence their name.
Now imagine this historical skill in a modern, domestic environment. Yes, these dogs have a very keen sense of smell and easily get distracted. Leaves rustling, the scent of a squirrel, the neighbour’s BBQ. They’ll be on it instantly, throwing the tennis ball you just threw, into oblivion. Tip: Always have a backup ball, and maybe an extra.
However, let’s not sell these dogs short based on their quirky traits alone. Their intelligence should not be underestimated. These dogs might not top the obedience class, but they certainly outshine many breeds in independent problem-solving and instinctive intelligence. The trick is to find the right method to get them to listen to you. If food is their weakness, well, let’s just say you will have the most obedient dog in the neighbourhood in no time.
Their energy level, though, is definitely high. They love a good run in the backyard, and a thoughtful game of fetch can go a long way. Their energy level is not ‘hyperactive’, however. They simply need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Think of them as marathon runners rather than sprinters. Regular leash walks, outdoor play, and a good hunting puzzle will keep them content.
On the other hand, their temperament is just a dream. They are gentle, loyal, and easy-going, quite unlike the usual ‘nervous energy’ characterization of hounds. They absolutely adore human companionship and make great family dogs. If you like to laze around on a Sunday afternoon, you’ll find them right by your side, happy as can be. Be ready for a bit of drooling though – a small price for this level of companionship, perhaps?
Some may say that Black and Tan Coonhounds are difficult to train. They might not quickly learn to sit, stay, or roll over, but they can be trained with a little patience and a lot of positive reinforcement. Remember, they were bred to be independent and make decisions on their own, which can come across as stubbornness sometimes.
Many potential owners are also concerned about possible health issues. It is true that like all purebreds, Black and Tan Coonhounds are at risk for specific genetic issues, like hip dysplasia and certain types of cancer. An accountable breeder will screen their breeding dogs for these issues to ensure the puppies they produce are as healthy as possible. They have a decent lifespan though, ranging from 10 to 12 years.
At the end of the day, whether a Black and Tan Coonhound is difficult or not for you lies in what you are looking for in a dog. If you stay patient with them, they reciprocate with bundles of love and joy. These dogs are wonderful companions who will bring endless laughter and memories to your home if you are willing to embrace their quirks. So, perhaps the question isn’t whether a Black and Tan Coonhound is a difficult dog, but whether we are willing to adjust our expectations and meet them halfway. Trust me, in return you’ll get a faithful friend, a loyal companion, and a fetching buddy who will bring tons of joy into your life.
