Choosing a Redbone Coonhound

Home > Dogs Home Page > Choosing a Breed > Article: Choosing a Redbone Coonhound

The redbone coonhound is a beloved raccoon hunting dog that is the only solid colored coonhound. Their beautiful red shiny coat led to their name.

History and Origin

The redbone coonhound was developed in the southern American state of Georgia in the 1800s likely from foxhounds and bloodhounds. At that time, many raccoon hunters had red dogs with unknown lineage that were excellent in tracking and treeing raccoons, referred to as redbones. Eventually, breeders took this red dog and followed a selective breeding program that led to a coonhound that was faster and a better "sniffer" than other coonhounds. Through trial and error, finally the redbone coonhound that we know today was developed and has been used primarily to hunt and tree raccoon but can be used to hunt other game. The breed is also an excellent companion.

In 2001, the redbone coonhound was recognized by the American Kennel Club as a member of the miscellaneous group.

Appearance and Size

The redbone coonhound should have an air of confidence and a pleading expression. The eyes are dark and set apart and the muzzle is square. The ears are long and pendulous and are set low on the head. The chest is deep and the tail is of medium length.

The coat of the redbone coonhound is short and smooth. The preferred color is solid red but some may have a dark muzzle and some white on the chest and feet.

The adult redbone coonhound stands around 21 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 50 to 70 pounds.

Personality

The redbone coonhound is a generally happy dog with an even temper. These dogs are agile and excellent hunters that can work in all kinds of terrain.

Home and Family Relations

The redbone coonhound is an excellent family pet that is good with older children and loves spending time with his family. He can live in an apartment as long as he is taken on daily walks but prefers a home with a large fenced yard. This breed is relatively inactive when kept indoors and has a tendency to become obese. Many can do well living outside if shelter is provided. The redbone coonhound can do well with other pets if raised with them but may chase cats.

Training

The redbone coonhound will easily learn to follow a scent and tree quarry. Some can do well in basic obedience but if they catch a scent, they will follow it.

Special Concerns

The redbone coonhound tends to be an inactive dog if kept indoors most of the time and can become overweight. Some drool a significant amount. As with other hounds, this breed should not be allowed off leash since he has a tendency to roam and will chase cats and other small creatures.

Common Diseases and Disorders

The redbone coonhound is a hardy breed that has few known diseases. The most common are hip dysplasia and obesity.

The average life span of the redbone coonhound is 11 to 12 years.


We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.