Bluetick Coonhound

The main purpose of the Bluetick Coonhound is hunting. If you are not interested in hunting clubs, the animal will become a loyal pet. Coonhounds are good companions. They love to spend time with their families and are willing to disappear for hours around children. But if there are young residents in the house, make sure that the games are not too active.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The first mention of the Bluetick Coonhound dates back to the 17th century. The breed comes from the American state of Louisiana. It was bred as a result of long breeding. The ancestors are recognized foxhounds and French Blue Gascon Hounds. The specific external distinction of the representatives – fighting Indian paint on the muzzle. It is considered a symbol that the animals are always on guard and ready to fight in all weather conditions. The Bluetick Coonhound accompanied people while hunting and was a menace to raccoons, opossums, bears, and foxes. The dog could bring that game that lived in the trees.

The breed was not officially recognized until 1945. Today, scientists are trying to present the Bluetick Coonhounds as purely American dogs. Within the United States, representatives are so popular among hunters that they take part in sporting competitions. One of these is considered a three-hour raccoon hunt.

Appearance

The weight of the dog varies from 20 to 36 kg. Body with well-developed musculature. Long and slender legs help the Bluetick Coonhound make confident jumps. The large ears are slightly drooping. The round eyes are a walnut shade.

Wool – medium hardness, smooth, with luster. They are tightly fitted to the body. The most common color of the breed is dark blue with flecks. They can be in the form of black spots on the back, sides, and ears. Red markings on the paws are allowed. Albinism and other colors are considered a violation of the standard and are not officially recognized.

Character

The main purpose of the Bluetick Coonhound is hunting. If you are not interested in hunting clubs, the animal will become a loyal pet. Coonhounds are good companions. They love to spend time with their families and are willing to disappear for hours around children. But if there are young residents in the house, make sure that the games are not too active. Prolonged torture of a dog can have negative consequences. Bluetick Coonhounds are suitable for watchdog purposes. Given their natural vigilance and attentiveness, they will not let anyone near the house. Representatives of the breed are not suitable for keeping in an apartment. Bluetick Coonhounds like freedom and space. It is better to get a large enclosure and allow the dog to satisfy its hunger for innate physical activity.

Care

Bluetick Coonhounds are characterized by abundant shedding. Therefore, grooming should be regular. Two to three times a week is enough. Frequent bathing is not necessary. Bathing procedures can be replaced by dry shampoo and wet wipes or a cloth dampened with water. After walks and activities, check your pet’s ears, eyes, and body for dirt, ticks, and small critters. Especially in the spring and summer.

Training

The Bluetick Coonhound breed is one of those that needs active training. Daily physical activity, intense activity will have a positive effect on the representatives of hunting dogs. They love space and feel great in an expansive yard. In terms of training, the dog shows a sharp mind and learns quickly. But may be distracted by scents.

It is important to remember: Bluetick Coonhounds do not accept rudeness and harshness. Such training will be unsuccessful, and the animal will withdraw from the owner or trainer. If you find a rapport with the dog, it will faithfully and quickly respond to commands. In a bad mood, representatives of the breed can repair damage to the interior. With cats and small pets get along poorly. Therefore, it is not recommended to keep them together in the same house.

Common Diseases

Good fitness and a strong immune system make the dogs immune to various diseases. Genetic diseases are not peculiar to them. By canine standards, Bluetick Coonhounds live longer than average – 10-13 years. But still, there are eye diseases (mostly cataracts) and dysplasia of the joints. Take care of your pet’s optimal diet and avoid overeating. Also, take your dog to the vet regularly for eye exams.

Nutrition

The Bluetick Coonhound’s diet should be competent and include fish oil, vitamin, and mineral supplements. The main foods for the dog are considered meat and saltwater fish. Also suitable cereals, vegetables, cottage cheese, and dairy products, eggs. If you don’t want to bother with a natural diet, premium food is also suitable for your pet.