Black and Tan Coonhound

Also called American Black and Tan Coonhound

Even-tempered and sociable, this hound is happy to doze by the fire at home but turns single-minded once it picks up a scent.

Size	Large
Weight	18 to 34 kg (40 to 75 lb)males 23 to 34 kg, females 18 to 29 kg1
Height	53 to 69 cm (21 to 27 in)males 53 to 69 cm, females 53 to 63.5 cm2 1
Lifespan	10 to 12 years1
Coat	Short, dense coat
Origin	United States, developed as a scent hound for trailing and treeing raccoons.2 1
Group	Scent hounds and related breeds (FCI group 6)

Recognised breedShort profile

friendly and easygoing

gentle with children

tireless scent tracker

2 3 1

Personality what they are like

Even-tempered and sociable, this hound is happy to doze by the fire at home but turns single-minded once it picks up a scent. It is patient with children, cooperates well with other hounds, and can be a little aloof with strangers.2 3 1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense coat

A big, powerful, athletic hound with long, low-hanging ears and a short, thick coat that protects it in rough country and bad weather.2 3

Colourscoal black with rich tan markings2 1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Black and Tan 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 working scent hound that needs regular, long walks or tracking outings; its strong nose means a lead or secure area is the safe choice outdoors.3 1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat needs only occasional brushing. The long ears are worth checking and cleaning regularly.2 1

Home where they are happiest

Does best with a securely fenced garden and neighbours who will not mind its deep, baying voice.1

Company who they like around

Enjoys company, both human and canine, and was bred to work alongside other hounds.3 2

The story where it all began

The breed traces back through Bloodhound and Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound lines to the old Talbot hounds of England. American hunters shaped it into a specialist night-time raccoon hound, and in 1945 it became the first coonhound recognised by the AKC.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Owners say each hound's bay is so individual that they can tell whose dog is calling from far away.1
2
Although bred for raccoons, the breed also trails deer, bear and even mountain lion.2
3
It was the first coonhound breed to be recognised by the AKC, in 1945.1
4
The AKC calls it 'a real American original' that works the night shift.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed's name comes from its coat color: coal black with rich tan markings above the eyes, on the sides of the muzzle, chest, legs, and breeching, with black pencil markings on the toes.4

Name ideas for your new friend

DixieRangerMapleCoonerSmokeyBlueGeorgiaTrackerWillowOzarkBelleCopper

A day in the life told by a Black and Tan Coonhound

I started my day with a long, slow yawn and a stretch on the porch. After breakfast, I followed an interesting smell through the yard, maybe a squirrel from last night. My human took me for a walk in the woods, and I pulled on the leash, nose to the ground, baying softly. We stopped at a creek, and I splashed a little. Back home, I curled up on the rug and let the kids pet me. Now I’m watching the fire, content and sleepy, ready for a good night’s rest.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 300, Group 6 (Scent hounds and related breeds), Section 1 Large-sized hounds; no working trial; standard published 30.01.1991, country of origin USA.2
AKC: Hound Group; recognised in 1945, the first coonhound breed the AKC accepted.1
UKC: Has a UKC breed standard (per Wikipedia).1

Popularity Ranked 137th of AKC-registered breeds5

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

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

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 Black and Tan Coonhound, and at what times?

Feed your Black and Tan Coonhound at least two meals a day as an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Consistent morning and evening times work well. Always follow the food label guidelines and check with your vet for the right portions.6

What should a Black and Tan Coonhound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to its age and size is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always ask your vet for a complete list and diet advice.7

How often should I bathe a Black and Tan Coonhound?

Bathe your Black and Tan Coonhound at least every three months, or more often if they get dirty. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks. Use a gentle dog shampoo and rinse well.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Black and Tan Coonhound need brushing?

Brush your Black and Tan Coonhound's short coat weekly to remove loose hair and keep it healthy. Pet Wiki's plan recommends brushing every 7 days. A soft bristle brush works well.8 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Black and Tan Coonhound's nails, and how often?

Trim your dog's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 4 weeks. Cut a small amount at a time and stop before the quick to avoid pain. Pet Wiki's plan suggests nail care every 28 days.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Black and Tan Coonhound need?

This active hound needs daily long walks or tracking sessions to stay happy. Always use a lead or a secure area because its strong nose can lead it astray. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play.3 1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Black and Tan Coonhound's teeth and ears?

Brush your Black and Tan Coonhound's teeth at least twice a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check its floppy ears weekly for moisture and clean gently without going deep. Pet Wiki suggests ear checks weekly and teeth brushing every 2 days.8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Black and Tan Coonhound live?

A Black and Tan Coonhound typically lives 10 to 12 years. With good care, regular vet visits, and a loving home, they can enjoy a full, happy life.1

Is a Black and Tan Coonhound good with children and other pets?

Yes, this breed is patient with children and gets along well with other dogs, especially hounds. They can be a little reserved with strangers but are generally sociable and even-tempered.2 3 1

Can a Black and Tan Coonhound be left alone?

It varies; Black and Tan Coonhounds enjoy company and may become vocal or anxious if left alone for long periods. For the best advice, ask a good breeder or your vet about your specific dog's needs.

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.