Treeing Walker Coonhound

Also called Treeing Walker, Walker, TWC

Recognised breedShort profile

From United States (Kentucky)1 2

At a glance the quick version

Weight23 to 32 kg1 2

Height, male56 to 69 cm2 1

Height, female51 to 64 cm2 1

Lifespan12 to 13 years1

Sizelarge

Wikipedia: 50 to 70 lb for both sexes. UKC: in proportion to size and working condition.

affectionate and good with children

tireless on the trail

smart and composed

1 2

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense, smooth hound coat

A fine, glossy coat that is still tight and hard enough to protect a lean, enduring hunting hound.2 1

Colourstricolour (white, black and tan), preferredwhite and blackwhite and tan2 1

Personality what they are like

Confident, clever and kind, with huge staying power in the field. Indoors it shifts gear into a mellow, sensitive dog that loves comfort and its family.2 1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A born endurance hunter that needs lots of daily exercise and chances to follow its nose.2 1

Company who they like around

Loving with its household and generally good with children.1

The story where it all began

The breed grew out of the Walker foxhounds bred in 19th-century Kentucky by John W. Walker and George Washington Maupin. A fast, game-savvy dog named Tennessee Lead, added to the line in 1852, shaped much of its character. The UKC started registering treeing Walkers separately in 1945, and the AKC followed in 2012.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Tennessee Lead, a key ancestor, was a dog of unknown background said to have been stolen before joining the Walker line.1
2
Its bay on the trail changes to a steady chop at the tree, so owners can recognise their own hound from far away.1
3
It is described as the most popular hound in competition coon hunts.1
4
When the AKC recognised it in 2012 it became that registry's 174th breed.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed's name comes from its hunting style of chasing game into trees ('treeing') and from the Walker family of hounds, developed from English Foxhounds by Thomas Walker of Virginia and later by John W. Walker and George Washington Maupin of Kentucky.3

Famous ones stars of the breed

Tennessee Lead A stolen dog of unknown origin whose exceptional hunting ability was crossed into the Walker Hound in the 19th century, forever influencing the breed.1

Name ideas for your new friend

WalkerKentuckyBluegrassTraceMileBounderSnoopHuckleberryJuniperMollySadieCopper

A day in the life told by a Treeing Walker Coonhound

I started my day with a long run through the fields, my nose full of exciting smells. I found a trail and followed it for miles, my howl echoing through the trees. My human cheered me on. After that, I came home and flopped onto the sofa, happy and tired. The kids gave me belly rubs, and I licked their hands. A day of hard work and soft love, just what I need.

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

Recognised by the official bits

UKC: Scenthound Group; registered as a separate breed from 1945, first as Walkers (Treeing)2
AKC: Recognised 2012 as the AKC's 174th breed1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Treeing Walker 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

Treeing Walker Coonhound tip

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are very food motivated, so keep treats to under 10% of daily calories and count them in meal portions to avoid weight gain. Avoid rawhide, as it may cause digestive issues.

Source: vcahospitals.com hillspet.com

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 Treeing Walker Coonhound, and at what times?

Feed adult Treeing Walker Coonhounds at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Times can be consistent with your routine; check the food label for amounts and ask your vet for a personalized plan.4

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

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for the best diet.5

How often should I bathe a Treeing Walker Coonhound?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty. The short coat doesn't need frequent bathing; follow your vet's advice.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Treeing Walker Coonhound need brushing?

Brush your Treeing Walker Coonhound weekly to keep its short, smooth coat healthy and remove loose hair. Furry Diary's plan suggests weekly brushing.6 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Trim a little at a time and stop before the quick; ask your vet or groomer to show you how.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Treeing Walker Coonhound need?

This breed needs lots of daily exercise, including walks and play, to satisfy its hunting instincts. Furry Diary's plan recommends daily exercise. Provide opportunities to follow its nose safely.2 1 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently; floppy ears trap moisture, so keep them clean and dry. Never push anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Treeing Walker Coonhound live?

Treeing Walker Coonhounds typically live 12 to 13 years. With good care, nutrition, and regular vet checkups, they can enjoy a long, healthy life.1

Is a Treeing Walker Coonhound good with children and other pets?

This breed is loving with its family and generally good with children. Early socialization is important; ask your breeder about its behavior with other pets.1

Can a Treeing Walker Coonhound be left alone?

It varies by individual; some Treeing Walker Coonhounds may tolerate short periods alone if well exercised. Ask your breeder or a trainer for guidance.

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.