Redbone Coonhound

Also called Redbone, Saddleback (historic)

Recognised breedFCI group 6Short profile

From Southern United States, developed before the Civil War.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male23 to 32 kg1 3

Weight, female20 to 29 kg1 3

Height, male56 to 69 cm1 2

Height, female53 to 66 cm1 2

Lifespan12 to 15 years3

Sizelarge

even-tempered and affectionate

eager to please

keen tracker and strong swimmer

2 4

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, close coat

A well-balanced, athletic hound with a short, sleek, glossy coat and long, soft ears.2 1

Colourssolid redchestnut red (small white on chest or feet allowed)2 1

Personality what they are like

Relaxed, gentle and friendly at home, often lounging between bursts of activity, but full of drive once on a scent. It is known for soulful, pleading eyes and a sweet, musical bay.4 2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Needs regular vigorous exercise such as long walks, hiking or swimming; a secure fence or lead is wise because it follows its nose.4 3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Easy-care coat that benefits from a weekly brush to lift loose hair.3

Home where they are happiest

Happiest in an active home with outdoor space rather than a small apartment.3

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A balanced diet with good protein, split into two meals a day for adults; puppies eat three to four smaller meals.3

Company who they like around

Friendly and loyal; generally does well with children and other pets when introduced sensibly.3

The story where it all began

Scottish red foxhounds brought to Georgia in the early 1800s, later mixed with Irish hound lines, laid the foundation. Breeders such as George F. L. Birdsong refined the dogs, and early 'Saddlebacks' with black markings gave way to the solid red hound of today, named for Tennessee breeder Peter Redbone.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Two Redbones are the canine heroes of the 1961 children's novel 'Where the Red Fern Grows'.1
2
It was the second coonhound breed ever registered with the UKC.2
3
Redbones are natural water dogs and swim well.2
4
They have been used on quarry as varied as raccoon, bear and cougar.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name may have come from a later breeder named Peter Redbone.5

Famous ones stars of the breed

Dan Won the first AKC/ACHA World Championship in 1948.5
Chief A Redbone mix who worked in avalanche, land, and water cadaver searches.5
Sula Earned certification from the International Police Work Dog Association in advanced land cadaver detection, water cadaver detection, and trailing.5

Name ideas for your new friend

ScarletBayouAmberRustyMagnoliaBelleCopperJasperDixieHoneyTrailSunny

A day in the life told by a Redbone Coonhound

My day begins with a long, lazy stretch on the porch, watching the world wake up. I follow my nose to the backyard, where I find a fascinating scent near the fence, I give a soft bay, just for fun. My human laughs and calls me over for a scratch behind the ears. Later, we head to the woods, and I lead the way, my nose glued to the ground. I find a stream and splash through it, my tail wagging wildly. After a good romp, I'm ready for a nap, curling up on the cool floor. In the evening, I sing a sweet, musical song as the stars come out, then drift off, dreaming of trails.

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

Recognised by the official bits

UKC: Registered from 1902, the second coonhound breed recognised by the UKC.2
AKC: Recognised 2010 (Hound Group).1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Redbone 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 Redbone Coonhound, and at what times?

Feed your adult Redbone Coonhound two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests splitting meals into morning and evening, and you can ask your vet for exact times that suit your routine.3 6 Pet Wiki plan

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

A balanced diet with good protein is best, split into two meals for adults. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts; always check with your vet for a complete list.3 7

How often should I bathe a Redbone Coonhound?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, and general guidance says at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but always use a dog-safe shampoo.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Redbone Coonhound need brushing?

Brush your Redbone Coonhound weekly to lift loose hair, as recommended by Furry Diary's starting plan. Their short, sleek coat is easy to care for, so a quick weekly brush keeps it looking glossy.3 8 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer to show you the technique if you're unsure.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Redbone Coonhound need?

Your Redbone Coonhound needs regular vigorous exercise like long walks, hiking, or swimming every day. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily walks and play, and a secure fence or lead is wise because they follow their nose.4 3 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly since floppy ears trap moisture. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks, drying them gently without pushing anything into the canal.8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Redbone Coonhound live?

A Redbone Coonhound typically lives 12 to 15 years. With good care, regular vet visits, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long, happy life.3

Is a Redbone Coonhound good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are friendly and loyal, and generally do well with children and other pets when introduced sensibly. Their relaxed, gentle nature at home makes them a wonderful family companion.4 2 3

Can a Redbone Coonhound be left alone?

This varies by individual dog; some may handle short periods alone, but they thrive on companionship and can become anxious if left too long. Ask your vet or a good breeder for advice tailored to your dog's temperament.

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.