Bluetick Coonhound

Also called Bluetick

Recognised breedShort profile

From United States (southern states, notably Louisiana)1

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male25 to 36 kg2 1

Weight, female20 to 29 kg2 1

Height, male56 to 69 cm2 1

Height, female53 to 64 cm2 1

Sizelarge

UKC: males 55-80 lb, females 45-65 lb

sweet and affectionate at home

clever problem-solver

tireless, determined tracker

3 1 2

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth

A medium-coarse, glossy coat that lies close to the body, on a muscular, athletic hound frame.2 1

Coloursdark blue mottled (black ticking on white) with black spotsblack head and earsoptional tan markingsred ticking on feet and lower legs2

Personality what they are like

Relaxed and loving around the house, happy to doze in the shade, but single-minded and bold once on a scent. Friendly toward people and other dogs, bright, and devoted to its owner once trained.3 1 2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

An energetic scenthound that needs daily exercise and outlets for its nose; its strong prey drive means off-lead running should be in secure areas.3 1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat is easy to care for with occasional brushing; training is best started early and kept consistent, including teaching when to be quiet.2 1

Home where they are happiest

Suits homes with outdoor space and neighbours who do not mind a musical, baying voice; keep small pets supervised around it.1

Company who they like around

Sociable with people and generally gets along with other dogs, reflecting its pack-hunting roots.2

The story where it all began

Descended from English and American foxhounds blended with French hounds such as the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, the Bluetick was shaped in the American South as a cold-nosed raccoon hunter. It was registered as an English Coonhound until breeders asked the UKC to recognise it separately in 1946, and the AKC followed in 2009.2 1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Smokey, the live mascot of the University of Tennessee, is a Bluetick Coonhound.1
2
The 'blue' colour is really dense black ticking on a white coat, which reads as navy blue from a distance.1
3
Its hunting voice switches from a bawl on the trail to a chop when it has treed its quarry.2
4
A Bluetick named Boone was elected dog mayor of Rabbit Hash, Kentucky, in November 2024.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed's name comes from its distinctive coat pattern: a dark blue, thickly mottled body with black spots, which is described as 'bluetick'.2

Name ideas for your new friend

BlueTickRangerBelleDixieHoundCoonMoosePatchesSadieTrackerBuster

A day in the life told by a Bluetick Coonhound

I lounge on the porch until a scent drifts by, a raccoon! I follow it through the woods, baying with excitement. My owner calls me back, and I obey, wagging my tail. At home, I nap in the shade, then greet everyone with a happy lick. In the evening, I play with the neighbor dog, chasing and wrestling. I'm friendly and love life, especially when I get to use my nose.

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

Recognised by the official bits

UKC: Recognised as a separate breed in 19462
AKC: Recognised April 2009, Hound Group1
ANKC: Recognised1
New Zealand Kennel Club: Recognised1
FCI: Not recognised1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Bluetick 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

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 Bluetick Coonhound, and at what times?

Feed your adult Bluetick Coonhound at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact portions, check the food label and ask your vet.4

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

A high-quality dog food suited to your dog's age and activity level is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always consult your vet for a tailored diet plan.5

How often should I bathe a Bluetick Coonhound?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or spends lots of time outdoors. The short coat is easy to keep clean.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Bluetick Coonhound need brushing?

Brush your Bluetick Coonhound weekly to keep its short, smooth coat healthy and reduce shedding. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends brushing every seven days.6 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If you're unsure, ask your vet or groomer to show you.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Bluetick Coonhound need?

This energetic hound needs daily exercise and plenty of opportunities to use its nose. Plan for at least a long walk or play session each day, and always keep it on a leash or in a secure area due to its strong prey drive.3 1 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush your Bluetick's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check its floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Dry the ears gently and never insert anything into the ear canal. Furry Diary suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Bluetick Coonhound live?

Lifespan varies by individual; ask your breeder or vet for an estimate based on your dog's lineage and health. With good care, many live a long, happy life.

Is a Bluetick Coonhound good with children and other pets?

Yes, Bluetick Coonhounds are generally friendly with people and other dogs, making them wonderful family companions. However, their strong prey drive means small pets like cats or rodents should be supervised. Early socialisation helps them thrive.3 1 2

Can a Bluetick Coonhound be left alone?

Bluetick Coonhounds can be left alone for reasonable periods if they have had enough exercise and mental stimulation. They are relaxed at home but may bay if bored. Crate training and engaging toys can help them feel secure.3 1 2

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.