AKC Dog Breeds: Bluetick Coonhound

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Hound Group
Height: 20-27 inches   Weight: 45-80 pounds  Color: tri-colored, heavily black speckled on white which gives the coat a blueish tint

A born hunter, this breed excelled in tracking and treeing raccoon, opossum, bear, and cougar. They are able to perform their hunting duties in any weather and terrain. Bluetick Coonhounds are most noted for their cold nose that gives them the capability of tracking very old scents. The Bluetick Coonhound, which originated in Louisiana, was developed from the Bleu de Gascogne hound of southwest France, as well as the English Foxhound, the cur dog, the American Foxhound, and the Black And Tan Virginia Foxhound. Originally, Bluetick Coonhounds were registered in the United Kennel Club under the English Foxhound and Coonhound, but were recognized by the club as a separate breed in 1946. Bluetick Coonhounds are also recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council and the New Zealand Kennel Club. Breeders have started the process of obtaining recognition from the American Kennel Club, and Blueticks are now eligible to compete in AKC coonhound events. A Bluetick Coonhound named "Smokey" is the official athletic mascot of the University of Tennessee.

General Appearance

The Bluetick should have the appearance of a speedy and well-muscled hound. He never appears clumsy or overly chunky in build. He has a neat, compact body, a glossy coat and clear, keen eyes. In motion he carriers his head and tail well up. The Bluetick Coonhound has a short, dense coat that is a bit coarse to the touch.  The Bluetick's tricolor coat has a uniquely speckled-blue look to it.  Its heavy ticking is actually composed of black-colored hairs on a white background, creating a bluing effect.  The tail is set just below the level where the black line ends and the ticking starts.  The compact feet have well-arched toes and are of similar tan color to the muzzle.  The hind legs are long and muscular.  The Bluetick has extremely good eyesight, which allows them to work well at night. Male coonhounds should be 22 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh approximately 55 to 80 pounds. Females are considerably smaller, being 21 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 45 to 65 pounds. The body should be higher at the shoulder than the hips, and when measured from the withers to the base of tail it should be slightly longer than tall. Blueticks (as they are known by fanciers) should have a deep chest with well sprung ribs, curving into the belly rather than having an extreme tucked up look.

Temperament

Bluetick Coonhounds are gentle with children and loyal, loving pets, but they can be challenging to train. They are the breed least likely to be aggressive to people, but they should not be trusted around cats or other small animals. They are, like their hound counterparts, very intelligent breeds, with an uncanny knack for problem-solving. This can be particularly problematic if they are confined to a household or too small a yard, and one should give this breed plenty of space. Once trained, the breed is very mindful of its owner. Breed will drool occasionally and salivate heavily when exposed to "human" foods. They are very loud, constant, and howling barkers. They are bred to be working hunting dogs and can be a challenge to lazy pet owners. In normal conditions the dog is excellent around families and children. Once trained, they are mindful, friendly dogs. However, their noses will keep them in trouble, so food and garbage should not ever be left out unattended. Often mistaken for aggressiveness, the breed will "greet" strangers with its signature howl and will literally "sniff" the subject until satisfied. Usually this is just the way the breed gets to know its subjects. Since Blueticks are driven by their strong sense of smell, they make excellent hunting/tracking dogs.

Grooming

This breed requires weekly brushing of the coat to minimize loose hair. Bathing or dry shampooing should be done when necessary. The ears must be checked and cleaned on a regular and consistent basis to prevent infection.

Health Problems and Life Expectancy
The Bluetick Coonhound is a relatively healthy breed but may be prone to cataracts, hip dysplasia, and Krabbes disease.

Activity Level

The Bluetick Coonhound requires daily vigorous exercise. They thrive on human interaction and being given a job to do. This breed is not recommended for apartment or city dwelling. They do best in a rural secluded setting where they can romp and roam freely and safely or in a home with a large securely fenced yard.




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