Background
If you were living during the 11th century, you would likely have heard of the Talbot hound. The Talbot was a descendent of the St. Hubert Hound and laid the bloodlines for the Black and Tan Coonhound. They were used to hunt raccoons and possums, but didn’t shy away from bigger game like mountain lions, deer, and even bears.
The Black and Tan was also the first coonhound to be considered a breed separate from the American Foxhound.
The American Kennel Club recognized the Black and Tan Coonhound in 1945.
Sizing up
- Weight: 65 to 100 lbs.
- Height: 23 to 27 inches
- Coat: Short and dense
- Color: Black with tan on the chest, legs, sides of the face, and above the eyes
- Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years
What’s the Black and Tan Coonhound like?
The Black and Tan Coonhound is friendly, active, and gentle. He loves his family and is great with children. He also needs plenty of exercise (e.g., a nice long jog or a good hike). He loves hunting, has an excellent scenting ability and may dart after small critters; it’s important to have a secure fenced yard if he’s let off leash.
Earing training is necessary if you don’t want your coonhound to wake the neighbors — he’s a howler. He can also be pretty stubborn so make sure you show him you’re the boss with firm and consistent training. Always use positive reinforcements; treats are an excellent motivator.
Grooming your Black and Tan is a breeze. Because of his short and dense coat you’ll only need to brush him a few times a week to remove any dead hair before it ends up all over your house, he’s a shedder.
Health
The Black and Tan Coonhound is generally a healthy breed with a few concerns to watch for:
Hip Dysplasia
Ectropion
- Occurs when the lower eyelid droops down exposing tissue
- Occurs when an eyelid is inverted causing an eyelash to irritate the eye
Hemophilia B
- An inherited bleeding disorder
Takeaway points
- The Black and Tan Coonhound is great with kids.
- The Black and Tan Coonhound would make an excellent hunting companion.
- The Black and Tan Coonhound is very easy to groom, but sheds frequently.
- The Black and Tan Coonhound can be loud, so apartment living isn’t ideal.
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.
