Choosing an American English Coonhound

Also known as the English Coonhound or Redtick Coonhound, this descendant of the English Foxhound is most often bred in the Southern United States. They are also closely related to other hounds, such as Bluetick Coonhounds and Treeing Walker Coonhounds.

History and Origin of the American English Coonhound

First arriving in North America with English settlers in the 17th and 18th centuries, the breed was originally known as the “Virginia Hound.” Interestingly, the first U.S. President, George Washington, had a hand in developing what would later become known as the American English Coonhound. The breed had to adjust to the rougher and more rigorous terrain of the new colony, hunting fox by day and raccoons at night. In the mid-1800s, the American English Coonhound was deemed a separate breed from the Treeing Walker Coonhound; the Bluetick Coonhound breed soon followed.

Appearance and Size of the American English Coonhound

The English Coonhound stands at about 21-27 inches in height and weight should be in proportion to height (usually about 40-65 pounds). This coonhound comes in three color patterns: redtick, tricolor, and bluetick (not to be confused with the Bluetick Coonhound breed). A vast majority of English Coonhounds possess redtick coloring. The hard coat is short to medium in length.

Personality of the American English Coonhound

The English Coonhound is active, friendly, and intelligent. The breed is quick when tracking a scent. Known for a loving temperament, the English Coonhound aims to please his owner and is an excellent companion. They desire regular exercise and human contact, especially during the early years of life. Since the breed loves to nest, families should not be surprised to find their coonhound comfortably curled on the sofa or bed.

Home and Family Relations with the American English Coonhound

The English Coonhound is an admirable watchdog and will voice his concerns in a loud bawl. While this is a desirable trait in a guardian, it does not make this the most appropriate breed for apartment or condo dwellers. Because of their hunting tendencies, the English Coonhound typically does better in families without small animals unless they have been raised with them. They do well with children, especially those who are a bit older and more considerate with pets.

Training of the American English Coonhound

Although the English Coonhound is highly intelligent, the breed is known for being a bit more obstinate and stubborn than other breeds. Short, frequent training sessions help with learning, carryover, and generalization. In addition, positive reinforcement and use of rewards (such as play, praise, or treats) is the most effective method of training for the breed.

Grooming of the American English Coonhound

The English Coonhound is fairly low maintenance; simply brush the coat occasionally to loosen dead hair, provide regular cleaning of ears and teeth, and trim nails regularly. Bathe when needed.

Special Care of the American English Coonhound

As the English Coonhound is an active breed, they have a tendency to be destructive indoors if not properly exercised on a regular basis. As previously mentioned, the loud bawl of the coonhound can disturb neighbors living close by. Lastly, as the English Coonhound has a one-track mind when on a scent, keeping him on leash in an unfenced environment can help keep him from running off and finding trouble.

Common Diseases and Disorders of the American English Coonhound

The American English Coonhound is relatively healthy, most commonly suffering from heat exhaustion or overheating during summertime hunting expeditions.

Life Span of the American English Coonhound

The average life span of the American English Coonhound is approximately 11-12 years.