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Bluetick Coonhound - MAIN HUB

The Bluetick Coonhound is a goofy, devoted scent hound with a musical bay. High-energy and affectionate, they thrive with active families and a yard.

BREED GROUP

Hound Dogs

Country of origin

United States

BREED SIZE

Large

BREED HEIGHT

21 -

27 IN

53 -

69 cm

BREED WEIGHT

45 -

80 LB

20 -

36 KG

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The Bluetick Coonhound is a loyal, affectionate, and energetic American breed, famous for its striking blue-ticked coat and musical bay. Known as tenacious scent hounds with an intense prey drive, they excel at tracking but require a securely fenced yard to prevent wandering. While charming and goofy companions at home, they need 1-2 hours of vigorous daily exercise to avoid destructive behaviors. They are generally patient with children and social with other dogs, though their size and vocal nature make them poor candidates for apartment living. Early training and consistent mental stimulation are essential.
american kennel club (AKC) recognition

Yes

Breed was recognized in 2009.

International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition

No

Breed was recognized in 0.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?

Are Bluetick Coonhounds good family dogs?

Very Good

8 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds make loyal and affectionate family companions, known for being patient with children and social with other dogs. However, they are best suited for active families who can provide the 1-2 hours of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation they need to remain well-behaved at home.

Good

8 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds are generally gentle, patient, and affectionate companions for children, forming strong bonds with their families. Due to their large size and high energy, they can be rambunctious and may be better suited for older kids who are less likely to be accidentally knocked over during play. Supervision is always recommended to ensure interactions remain safe and gentle for both the dog and the child.

Great

8 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds are generally not recommended for first-time owners due to their high energy levels, intense prey drive, and tendency for loud vocalization. They require significant daily exercise and experienced handling to manage their independent nature and tracking instincts. Prospective owners must be prepared to provide a securely fenced yard and consistent mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors.

Not Recommended

1 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds are generally not recommended for apartment living due to their large size, high energy levels, and loud, musical baying that can disturb neighbors. These active scent hounds require significant daily exercise and thrive best in homes with a securely fenced yard where they have ample space to roam and explore.

Highly Recommended

9 out of 10

A securely fenced yard is highly recommended for a Bluetick Coonhound. Due to their intense prey drive and tendency to follow scents, they require a safe, enclosed space to explore without wandering off. Their high energy levels and vocal nature also make a yard much more suitable than apartment living.

Poor

2 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds bond deeply with their families and crave constant companionship, making them prone to separation anxiety. They do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and may develop destructive behaviors or engage in loud, mournful baying if they feel isolated. They thrive best in active households where they are frequently included in daily activities.

Fair

4 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds generally get along well with cats, especially when raised with them from a young age. However, they possess an intense prey drive and hunting instinct that can trigger a desire to chase. While many can peacefully coexist through training and slow introductions, their high energy and driven nature mean they should always be supervised around feline companions.

Calm

10 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds are not naturally aggressive; they are typically charming, goofy, and affectionate companions that are patient with children. While they possess a strong prey drive and a vocal nature due to their hunting background, they are generally social with other dogs and friendly toward people when provided with proper socialization and consistent training.

High Energy

10 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds are exceptionally high-energy dogs that require significant daily exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. They need at least one to two hours of vigorous activity, such as long hikes or scent-tracking games, and may develop destructive behaviors or excessive baying if their physical and mental needs are not met.

~120 min a day

8 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds require a high level of daily exercise, typically between one to two hours of vigorous activity. They thrive on long walks, hiking, and activities that engage their acute tracking instincts, such as scent work or fetch in a securely fenced yard. Providing consistent physical and mental stimulation is essential to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors like excessive baying.

Very Good

7 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds have a moderate tolerance for hot weather due to their short, dense coats. However, they are known to become lazy and less active when temperatures rise above 70°F to 80°F. Owners should provide plenty of shade and fresh water, and avoid vigorous exercise during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating.

Very Good

7 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds have a moderate tolerance for hot weather due to their short, dense coats. However, they are known to become lazy and less active when temperatures rise above 70°F to 80°F. Owners should provide plenty of shade and fresh water, and avoid vigorous exercise during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating.

Likely Banned

3 out of 10

Bluetick Coonhounds are typically not subject to specific breed bans, but they are frequently restricted in apartments due to their large size and loud, musical baying. Their weight often exceeds common rental limits, and their vocal nature can lead to noise complaints in close quarters. Always verify individual landlord policies regarding pet weight limits and noise regulations.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?


Photo
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian Researcher Dog breed specialist
Verified
"Bluetick Coonhounds are generally hardy, but they are predisposed to several serious health conditions that require proactive management. As a veterinarian, I prioritize monitoring for Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (bloat), a life-threatening emergency common in deep-chested breeds; owners should use slow-feeders and avoid exercise around mealtimes. Their long, pendant ears are highly susceptible to chronic infections, necessitating weekly cleanings. We also screen for hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and genetic eye issues like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Because of their intense prey drive and tracking nature, they are also at risk for field injuries and a rare condition called Coonhound Paralysis. Maintaining a lean weight and regular joint evaluations are essential to ensuring these athletic hounds remain mobile and healthy throughout their 10 to 12-year lifespan."

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