Bluetick Coonhound — Breed Profile
"Friendly, affectionate, relentless hunter, bold, single-minded"
Charming couch potato turned obsessive
At a Glance
Weight
45–80 lbs
Height
21–27"
Lifespan
11–12 years
Coat
Short
Group
Hound
Origin
United States
Breed Traits
Best For
Active hunters, rural homes with acreage, experienced dog owners, families seeking energetic companion with strong prey drive
Not Ideal For
Apartment dwellers, cat owners, first-time dog owners, sedentary lifestyles, homes without secure fencing
Health Considerations
Hip dysplasia, ear infections, obesity
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,000
Breed History
Developed in the United States as a specialized coonhound breed, combining traits from English and American hunting dogs to create an efficient raccoon tracker with exceptional scenting ability and distinctive baying voice.
Fun Facts
- Known for their distinctive deep bawl bark that can be heard from great distances
- The bluetick coloring resembles flecks of blue-gray mixed into the coat
- Originally bred to specialize in raccoon hunting but adaptable to other game
- Extremely cold-nosed scent trackers used in professional hunting circles
Famous Bluetick Coonhounds
Not widely documented in popular culture