Blue Tick Coonhound Breed Description

An Owner's Blue Tick Coonhound Description
Patches would have never made a good house pet. His need for physical exercise and his inherent gift of smell is similar to the Black and Tan Coonhound's, and like that breed, what he loves best is chasing raccoons up trees. I keep Patches confined fairly close to the house because once he catches wind of a scent he's determined to follow it and put it in a tree, especially that of a coon.

As far as tracking goes, I don't think I could have asked for a more dependable dog than Patches. He's got tremendous amount of stamina and determination and truly enjoys his work. As he has matured, Patches has proved himself very capable of being an excellent watchdog and somewhat protective of his home. He's not particularly aggressive but will certainly let us know when a stranger is approaching.

Patches has become an excellent companion for our kids to hang around with. But he prefers them even more now that they have grown up some themselves. They used to pester him just enough that he'd tire of their play and get up and go off to be by himself. He's a fairly active dog and doesn't like to sleep his day away but it's the scent of a coon that really gets him excited.

Patches has become somewhat of a local celebrity and has appeared in numerous TV commercials. He doesn't mind the attention and I think sometimes he even dreams of the bright lights of Hollywood. Then I have to remind him of his roots and take him out into the woods. No amount of stardom can replace the urges he gets when he smells a raccoon up ahead.

 

 

Introduction

These dogs were produced by selective breeding of various Hound breeds in Louisiana. They are an exceptionally elegant animal. Their name is not entirely accurate. They are in fact a tri-colored dog. These dogs have a strong instinct to tree animals, particularly the raccoon. Their eyesight is extremely good enabling them to hunt at night. They require minimal grooming except for the ears, but they do need plenty of exercise. These dogs are good with children. They weigh 45 to 80 lbs. and stand 20-27" at the shoulders.

History

Throughout the Ozark Mountains into the state of Louisiana, French settlers had brought dogs from Europe. French stag hounds did well hunting in the new world. Breeders in the early 1900s, seeking hunting prowess and physical grace, began working with the Blue Gascon, the Saintogeois, the Porcelaine and the local ticked dogs common to the region. The resulting Blue Tick Coonhound is unsurpassed in its ability to tree a raccoon. Today the breed is a member of the AKC Foundation Stock Registry. Breeders are working diligently to increase the numbers of these wonderful hunting and family dogs.

General Description

Despite what might easily be described as a doleful expression, these are in fact very elegant hounds. Chests are deep yet not wide, and the well-sprung ribs taper gradually. Both the fore and hind legs show an athelete's muscles.

Temperament

Fans of the Blue Tick Coonhound all have their own unique story about an amazing hunt and how their dog never faltered, never tired, and tracked relentlessly all through the night. But what they want to tell you about first is the loving, gentle nature of these remarkable dogs. They evince a gratitude for simple blessings that endears them to their family and makes every Blue Tick Coonhound unforgettable.

Health and Care

Prudent owners regularly inspect and clean the Blue Tick Coonhounds' ears, as they are prone to picking up grime. Otherwise, these dogs are largely maintenance free. Keep nails trims and teeth clean for optimal health.

Colors

Preferred color is a dark blue, thickly mottled body, spotted by various shaped black spots on back, ears and sides.

Living Area

They are not recommended for apartment dwellers. Bluetick Coonhounds are hunters by nature and are not good with other household pets.

Recognized By

APRI, AKC, UKC, NKC, CKC, ANKC, ACR, DRA, AKC

Pets4You offers listings of Blue Tick Coonhound breeders with puppies for sale.