Description
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large, powerful working hound. It is very well-proportioned, with a finely modeled head. The upper plane of the skull is approximately parallel to the upper plane of the muzzle. It has well developed pendent lips and wide black nostrils. The long pendent ears fall in graceful folds and it has a strong tail that is carried freely. The moderate stop is located midway between the occiput and the nose. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The rounded eyes are hazel to dark brown. The length of the body from wither to rump is the same as or a bit longer than the height at the withers. The topline is fairly level. The chest should reach at least down to the elbows. The short, sleek coat is black with tan markings on the muzzle, limbs, and chest. The graceful droop of loosely fitting skin and extensive ear leather give the Black and Tan a distinctive quality. It can cover a lot of ground with his long rhythmic strides. One of America's canine aristocrats, the Black and Tan Coonhound's bloodlines hark back to the Talbot hound of a thousand years ago, yet he's completely a creation of the mountain people of the Ozarks and the Smokies. Nose to the ground, he singlemindedly trails his prey, primarily the raccoon but also mountain lions, bears, deer, and other game, "barking up" when his quarry is treed. Of the six coonhound breeds, the Black and Tan is the one most frequently recognized, notable for his size and distinctive coloring. Among hunters, he's famous for his cold nose; that is, the ability to pick up and follow an old trail, no matter how faint.
Temperament
A quick-to-follow, intelligent, loyal and good-natured hunter and companion, the Black and Tan Coonhound pleases hunter and owner alike. The Black and Tan is an alert and eager dog who is very dedicated to his work. Some sources say this passionate worker is a bit aggressive, but will listen to his master. Other sources say he is gentle and friendly with people. Some individuals are protective and are a bit reserved with strangers. They are usually best with older considerate children. Sometimes they can play rough. This dog can be willful, requiring firm, patient and on-going training. They may howl if they are left alone too much. Do not let this breed off the leash in an unsafe area, as they may take off after an interesting scent. Some Black and Tan tend to be aggressive with other strange dogs. There are two types of Black and Tan Coonhounds: show and field. The show types are a bit larger and maybe somewhat less energetic and work oriented, and therefore tend to make better pets. This breed drools and slobbers.
Height, Weight
Height: 23-27 inches (58-68 cm.)
Weight: 50-75 pounds (45-64 kg.)
Health Problems
Prone to hip dysplasia. Do not overfeed this breed.
Living Conditions
The Black and Tan Coonhound is not recommended for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard.
Exercise
Vigorous daily exercise is needed, which includes a long walk each day.
Group
Hound, AKC Hound
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