Bloodhound

Bloodhound Grooming Profile

Bloodhounds are large, powerful scent hounds that reach full physical maturity by age three. They are moderate year-round shedders with short coats requiring weekly brushing and daily wrinkle care, needing substantial daily exercise and a diet of 5-6 cups.

Breed Group

Hound Dogs

Country of Origin

Belgium

Breed Size

Large

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1885

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1960

Allergy-friendly

Worst Choice

1 / 10

Shedding

Moderate

4 / 10

Grooming need

20 mins/week

8 / 10

Low-maintenance

Moderate

5 / 10

Size

Large

8 / 10

Growth timeline

12-18 months

9 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Bloodhound hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Bloodhounds are not hypoallergenic. They possess a short, dense coat that sheds moderately to heavily throughout the year. Bloodhounds are often considered a poor choice for allergy sufferers not just due to shedding, but specifically because of significant drooling and dander trapped in skin folds.

Allergy-friendly: 1 / 10

Do Bloodhound shed?

Bloodhounds are moderate year-round shedders with short, dense coats. They experience heavier shedding during seasonal transitions in the spring and autumn. Regular weekly brushing is necessary to remove loose hair and minimize fur around your home, though daily attention helps during peak shedding seasons.

Shedding: 4 / 10

How often should you groom a Bloodhound?

To maintain a healthy Bloodhound, brush their short coat weekly to manage year-round shedding. Their long ears and deep facial wrinkles require daily cleaning with a damp cloth to prevent infections. Regular nail trims and dental care are also essential for this messy but gentle breed.

Grooming need: 8 / 10

Are Bloodhound low-maintenance dogs?

Bloodhounds are generally not considered low-maintenance dogs. While their short coats require only weekly brushing, their massive size makes every task more difficult. Owners must manage significant drooling, potential health issues, and their need for substantial daily exercise.

Low-maintenance: 5 / 10

How big do Bloodhound get?

Adult Bloodhounds are large, powerful scent hounds with a sturdy build. Males typically stand 25 to 27 inches tall and weigh 90 to 110 pounds, while females reach 23 to 25 inches and weigh 80 to 100 pounds. Their substantial frame reflects their legendary endurance and tracking capabilities.

Size: 8 / 10

When do Bloodhound stop growing?

Bloodhounds typically reach their full adult height between 12 and 18 months of age, but these large hounds continue to fill out and gain muscle mass, often not reaching full physical maturity until three to four years old.

Growth timeline: 9 / 10

How much should a Bloodhound eat?

Adult Bloodhounds typically require 4 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. The exact amount depends on their age, size, and activity level. Monitor their weight to prevent obesity and support their active lifestyle.

Feeding amount: 9 / 10

How often should a Bloodhound puppy eat?

Bloodhound puppies eat 3-4 meals daily until 6 months, then transition to 2 meals.

Puppy feeding frequency: 2 / 10

Vet Insights

Bloodhounds are large, powerful scent hounds that reach full physical maturity by age three. They are moderate year-round shedders with short coats requiring weekly brushing and daily wrinkle care, needing substantial daily exercise and a diet of 5-6 cups.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified