| AKC Group: | Hound |
| A.K.A.: | None |
| Functions: | Hunting |
| Year of Origin: | 1700s |
| Country of Origin: | United States |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 12 |
| Colors: | Black and tan |
| Height (Inch): | 23 - 27 |
| Weight (lb): | 65 - 100 |
| Size: | Large |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: | |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: |  |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
Rugged by nature and in appearance, the Black and Tan Coonhound is resilient and can endure cold winters, hot summers, and strenuous terrain. He has a friendly and enthusiastic expression. He does not have any wrinkles or folds in his skin. He has beautiful round eyes that range in color from hazel to brown. His long ears are located low on his head and hang gracefully. He is strong, especially through his neck, back, and legs. The coat of the Black and Tan Coonhound is thick to protect his skin from burrs and thorns while he is working in difficult territory.
Temperament:
The Black and Tan Coonhound is very even-keeled and extraverted. He easily makes friends and loves being with his family. He is a hard worker and as a hound he is frequently in contact with other dogs. Consequently, he knows how to get along with them without being hostile or timid. He can be aloof towards strangers, but he is never aggressive towards them. The Black and Tan Coonhound is a brave breed of dog and has even been known to successfully hunt bears and mountain lions. He is great with children and knows how to be gentle with them, as well.
Health:
Although the Black and Tan Coonhound is not predisposed to many of the most common disorders, there have been reports of hip dysplasia – a painful condition that in its most severe forms can affect mobility. However, many breeders can provide certification as to whether a dog is likely to develop the condition. Cataracts may also be an issue. Again, the eyes of the Black and Tan Coonhounds can be checked for problems before they arise. Because his ears hang low, they should be cleaned and checked for infection, mites, yeast, and bacteria weekly. A good veterinarian will be able to mitigate many problems before they become more serious.
Maintenance:
The Black and Tan Coonhound is not difficult to groom. This is true mainly because their coat is short and thick. Brushing him with a rubber comb is the perfect way to reduce loose fur and check him for annoying fleas or burrs. The Black and Tan Coonhound loves to run and he will chase anything that moves – a squirrel, a rabbit, a cat, a bird, a car. So, he must be let off of his leash in a safe, fenced-in place. For those people who do not have acres upon acres of land, a dog park can be a great location for him to stretch his legs and not feel confined.