American English Coonhound

Also called English Coonhound, Redtick Coonhound, English Fox and Coonhound

Good-natured, friendly and loyal, it is sociable with people and other dogs.

Size	Large
Weight	18 to 34 kg (40 to 75 lb)1 2 3
Height	53 to 69 cm (21 to 27 in)males 56 to 69 cm, females 53 to 64 cm3 4 2
Lifespan	11 to 12 years1
Coat	Hard, protective hound coat
Origin	United States, particularly the South, from English foxhounds of the colonial era.3 4

Recognised breedShort profile

pleasant and sociable

tireless, athletic hunter

famous musical hound voice

3 2

Personality what they are like

Good-natured, friendly and loyal, it is sociable with people and other dogs. It has a strong hunting instinct, so small animals can look like something to chase.3 4 1

Coat and looks how to spot one

hard, protective hound coat

A lean, fast, athletic hound with a hard, protective coat of short to medium length.3 4

Coloursredtickblueticktricolour with tickingred and whiteblack and whitelemon and white3 4

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an American English Coonhound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A high-energy hound built to hunt through the night; it needs plenty of daily exercise such as long walks, jogging, hiking, scent work or dog sports.1 2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The coat is low-maintenance: brushing once or twice a week handles shedding. Check and clean the floppy ears regularly.1 2

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Adults usually eat twice a day and puppies three to four small meals; choose a complete, balanced food and adjust portions to age and activity.1

Company who they like around

Enjoys company, whether human or canine; a hound that fits well into a busy, active household.2 3

The story where it all began

English hounds came to America with settlers such as Robert Brooke in 1650, and later imports by Thomas Walker and George Washington helped shape the Virginia Hounds. Hunters adapted these dogs for raccoon and other quarry over rough terrain at night. The UKC recognised the breed in 1905 and the AKC in 2011.3 4

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
George Washington's imported hounds are among its ancestors.3
2
When on a trail it gives a continuous 'bawl' that tells hunters how close it is to its quarry.2
3
It became the AKC's 171st recognised breed in 2011.4
4
It is also known as the Redtick Coonhound, after its common ticked coat.4

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is called 'American English Coonhound' because it was developed in America from English hunting dogs, and 'Coonhound' refers to its primary use of hunting raccoons.5

Name ideas for your new friend

TrackerRangerScoutBlazeEchoMapleSadieCopperRustyWillowJasperHazel

A day in the life told by an American English Coonhound

I woke up before the sun, ready for adventure! I sniffed the air and caught a whiff of a squirrel. My human groaned, but I nudged their hand until they put on my leash. We jogged through the woods, and I followed a scent trail, my tail waving like a flag. I found a stick and brought it back, dropping it at their feet. Later, I dozed on the porch, dreaming of chasing rabbits. When the kids came out, I barked a happy hello. Every day is a treasure hunt!

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

UKC: First recognised in 1905 as the English Fox and Coonhound; now registered as English Coonhound in the Scenthound Group.3
AKC: Foundation Stock Service 1995, Miscellaneous Class 2010, full recognition in the Hound Group on 30 June 2011.4

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Frozen Yoghurt & Berry Kong Stuffing

A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.

You need

120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)

How

Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
Give to your dog as a supervised treat.

How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my American English Coonhound, and at what times?

Adult American English Coonhounds usually eat twice a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feed at consistent times each day, and adjust portions based on your dog's age and activity level. Always follow the food label and check with your vet for exact amounts.1 6

What should an American English Coonhound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a complete and balanced dog food suited to your hound's age and activity. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, onion, garlic, and macadamia nuts. Never give raw meat, eggs, or bones, and keep human treats like avocado and dairy away.1 7

How often should I bathe an American English Coonhound?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or spends a lot of time outdoors. Their short, hard coat doesn't need frequent bathing, so once every three months is often enough.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an American English Coonhound need brushing?

Brush your American English Coonhound once or twice a week to keep shedding under control. Their short to medium coat is low-maintenance, and weekly brushing is usually enough to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy.1 2 8 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an American English Coonhound's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside), and use a proper dog nail trimmer. If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an American English Coonhound need?

This high-energy hound needs plenty of daily exercise, such as long walks, jogging, hiking, or scent work. Aim for at least an hour of activity each day, and include playtime or dog sports to keep them happy and fit.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an American English Coonhound's teeth and ears?

Brush your hound's teeth ideally daily, or at least a few times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check and dry their floppy ears weekly to prevent moisture buildup and infections, never push anything into the ear canal. Regular care keeps both healthy.1 2 8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an American English Coonhound live?

American English Coonhounds typically live 11 to 12 years. With good care, regular vet visits, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long, active life.1

Is an American English Coonhound good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are friendly and loyal with children and other dogs, making them great family companions. However, their strong hunting instinct means small animals like cats or rabbits may trigger a chase, so early socialization and supervision are important.3 4 1 2

Can an American English Coonhound be left alone?

This sociable hound loves company and may become anxious if left alone for long periods. They fit best in a busy, active household where someone is often home. For your specific situation, ask a good breeder or vet for advice.2 3

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.