Bluetick Coonhound

Country of Origin: United States

Height: Males 22-30 in (56-76 cm) / females 21-28 in (53-71 cm)

Weight: Males 55-100 lb (25-45.5 kg) / females 45-85 lb (20.5-38.5 kg)

Coat: Smooth, glossy, fairly coarse, lying close to the body

Colors: Dark blue, thickly mottled with black spots; may have tail markings, red ticking

Registries (With Group): AKC (Miscellaneous); ANKC (Hounds); UKC (Scenthound)

French hounds had been brought to America even before Colonial times. These patient, persistent, beautifully voiced hounds were bred to relatively pure form in remote parts of the South. Crossed with Foxhounds and curs, they formed the basis for the Bluetick Coonhound recognized today.

Devoted and intelligent, the Bluetick is a fine family member. His easygoing nature allows him to fit into home life, and he forms deep, loyal bonds with his owner. Although he has a lot of energy, he is also content to lay at his owner's feet while off the hunt. Because of his strong predator drive, he has a tendency to chase small animals and must be socialized from an early age to accept other small pets, but he thrives in the company of other dogs. He is very friendly with children.

• The Bluetick needs vigorous daily exercise and preferably the opportunity to hunt. This is a dog that does best with a job to do.
• Intelligent and sensitive, the Bluetick Coonhound can have a tendency toward stubbornness when not in the field, so early obedience training is key to getting the best out of this breed.
• His coat is relatively easy to keep clean with occasional brushing, and his ears need to be regularly checked for infection.
• Average life span is 10 to 12 years. Breed health concerns may include ear infections.