Black and tan coonhounds, or, as they are also called, raccoon dogs, are ideal for hunting raccoons, possums, and even wild boars, deer, and bears. These dogs work with the lower instinct. Dogs with such a flair are especially appreciated also in search and rescue operations or in operational-search activities. Dogs of this breed are primarily service dogs. They can become excellent helpers and companions for people with a strong character, self-confident, who can devote enough time to communicate with their pet; after all, coonhounds really do not like to be left alone for a long time without attention, they will definitely let you know about themselves with a long and loud howl.

History of the Breed

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large hound hunting dog that was bred in the United States to hunt raccoon mammals in the 18th century. Translated from English “kunhound” means “raccoon dog”. It is believed that the Talbot Hound, Irish Kerry Beagle, Bloodhound, and Foxhound took part in the creation of dogs of this breed. There are several varieties of dogs of this breed, which differ from each other in color; they are few in number and have not yet received official recognition. The black and tan coonhound was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1945.

Appearance

The Black & Tan Coonhound is a large, square dog with strong bones and well-developed muscles. Her head is long, rather large. The transition from the forehead to the muzzle is well defined. The length of the muzzle is equal to the length of the skull. The skull is oval. The nose is large and black. The flies are well developed. The eyes are rounded, dark in color. The ears are located at eye level, they are drooping, long and wide, drooping in folds. The neck is of medium length, strong and muscular, without dewlap. The back is strong and straight. The ribcage is deep with prominent ribs. The tail is set below the line of the back, rather long, thick at the base, carried upright or down. The limbs are strong and muscular, straight, parallel to each other. The feet are compact. The coat is shiny, short, smooth, thick, and dense. The color is jet black with tan above the eyes, on the sides of the muzzle, on the chest, and on limbs. Black stripes on the paws. White markings are not allowed.

Characteristics and Personality

Dogs of this breed are extremely hardworking, strong, hardy, attentive, fearless, and tireless. That is why they began to be used even in hunting large games. These dogs are kind and affectionate towards their owners and close people; they are always happy not only to communicate with them and spend time together but are always ready to carry out any order. If, of course, the owner manages to properly educate his dog, and make it an ideally obedient dog, friend, and companion. Coonhounds are quite independent and independent, therefore, during training, the most important thing that a trainer needs is patience and perseverance. These raccoon dogs treat children well and can play with them for a long time. However, nevertheless, the kids should not be too small, because these coonhounds are large in size, they can inadvertently harm the kids. Coonhounds are also excellent watchmen, they are extremely distrustful of outsiders. These dogs are always full of enthusiasm and are ready to get to work at any time. They are unlikely to find a common language with other animals, because they are hunters by nature, and it is almost impossible to suppress the innate hunting instinct.

Care and Maintenance

Dogs of this breed are not suitable for urban life. The kunhound will feel comfortable in a large private house with a large garden plot. These dogs need regular vigorous exercise. Coonhounds are created for hunting, they are tireless at work, they need to get rid of huge reserves of energy every day. If you live in a small apartment, and you only need a dog to keep your family company, pay attention to dogs of a different breed. Coonhounds are working dogs that must be engaged in hunting activities. If you are not a hunter, make sure your dog is coursing. This sport simulates real hunting and satisfies all the physical and emotional needs of hunting dogs. In addition to working activities, coonhounds need constant care and attention. They shed almost constantly, so they need to be combed out frequently with a stiff brush. Washing these dogs frequently is not recommended. For washing, you can use dry shampoo or even a hard wet towel. You can add a little olive oil to your dog shampoo to keep the coat looking healthy and shiny. Keep a close eye on the cleanliness of the Coonhound’s ears to prevent the development of infectious diseases. Rinse your eyes regularly with strong black tea or chamomile decoction. Don’t forget to brush your teeth.

Education and Training

Not everyone can cope with raising a dog of this breed. Coonhounds can be quite stubborn, they like to make decisions on their own and act as they please. Therefore, you must be persistent, patient, consistent, and somewhere even strict, but not cruel. Physical punishment should be avoided in any case. Any dog ​​expects love and understanding from the owner. Of course, sometimes, it is quite difficult to restrain yourself, but if you can’t do it, then it’s too early for you to get a dog. You need to bring up a coonhound from the first days of its appearance in your home. To prevent the puppy from being aggressive in the future, be sure to help him get to know the world, introduce him to other people and animals. The puppy must learn to determine where it is really in danger, and where it is completely safe. It is especially important to start studying the world around you from an early age. In order for your pet to obey and understand your commands perfectly in the future, it needs to be taught to automatically execute basic commands from puppyhood. When studying the commands “Come to me!”, Sit! “,” Stand! “,” Lie down! “,” You can’t! “And others, be sure to use goodies. Thus, the puppy will not think about what they want from him but will follow his instincts. Subsequently, he develops a reflex, thanks to which your pet will not hesitate to follow all your instructions, and this is extremely important for a service dog.

Health

Black & Tan Coonhounds are strong and hardy dogs with a strong immune system. Basically, the health and life expectancy of your pet depends on you. If you take care of your dog from the moment of its birth, vaccinate your pet in a timely manner and take him for routine check-ups to a veterinarian, your dog will be active, able-bodied, and cheerful for many years. Particular attention should be paid to the eyes of the Coonhound because dogs of this breed are prone to diseases of the organs of vision. Coonhounds can also have hip dysplasia, which can occur at any age. If you want to be sure that your pet is not susceptible to this disease, be sure to study its pedigree before purchasing. If you have already adopted a puppy, and do not know his pedigree, make sure that he does not jump, does not go down the stairs, and runs as little as possible. Train your puppy to water so that he swims a lot and his muscles develop well. Swimming is good for all dogs. So that the puppy is not afraid of water, go into the water yourself 1.5 meters, entice the puppy with a treat, wait for him to come up. Increase the distance over time. After a while, the puppy will enjoy swimming.

How to Choose a Puppy

If you want to become the owner of a healthy and harmoniously developed baby, do not purchase it from breeders with a dubious reputation. You should not go to the bird markets, chasing a low price. These savings will further translate into regular visits to the veterinary clinic. Specialized nurseries are where you should go in search of a Black and Tan Coonhound.