The Bluetick Coonhound dog is a breed of Coonhound originating in the United States. It is most commonly used as a raccoon hunting dog, and it is known for it’s friendly persona, cold nose and deep bawl mouth. The breed is very good for raising as pet.
The Bluetick Coonhound dog breed was originated in Louisiana, and 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, the Bluetick Coonhound dogs 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.
The breed is also recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council and the New Zealand Kennel Club. The breed was accepted by the American Kennel Club in April 2009. And in December 2009, it became eligible to compete in AKC coonhound events.
The American Blue Gascon Hound is a subgroup of the Bluetick Coonhound dog that is larger, heavier and more ‘houndy’ looking than the standard Bluetick.
The American Blue Gascon Hounds are often referred to as ‘old-fashioned’ Blueticks. It is due to their appearance and ‘colder’ nose, or slower style of tracking, compared to other modern coonhound breeds.[1]
Bluetick Coonhound Dog Characteristics
The Bluetick Coonhound dogs are medium to large in size with very beautiful look. Their overall build is muscular and speedy. The head is carried up and the tail is carried over the back, without signs of fear or nervousness.
Coat of the Bluetick Coonhound dog should be moderately coarse and glossy. The breed gets it’s ‘blue’ coloring from black ticking on a white background, which gives the impression of a navy blue color.
This ticking covers the body and can be interspersed with variously-shaped black spots on the back, ears and sides. Preference runs to more blue than black on the body. Black should predominate on the head and ears.
Bluetick Coonhounds can come either with or without markings. With markings means they will have brown markings above the eyes, along both sides of the muzzle, on the chest, and down all of the legs. Without markings means their color consists of only black and white fur. There is generally a ticked blaze running up the face.
Feet should be cat-like, rounded with well-arched toes. Their paws are larger than those of nearly all other breeds of dogs. Rear legs should have a moderate bend at the hocks. All legs should be straight from the dog’s body to the ground when viewed from the front or rear.
The Bluetick Coonhound dogs are medium to large in size. Their average body height is between 22 and 27 inches at the withers for males, and between 21 and 25 inches for the females. Average live body weight of the male dog is between 25 and 36 kg for males, and between 20 and 29 kg for the females.
Temperament
The Bluetick Coonhound dogs are bred to be hunting dogs. They are athletic, hardy and very active. They need a full-time job or activity such as hunting, obedience, or agility to stay happy.
They can be challenging to train and should be monitored around cats and other smaller animals. Like their hound counterparts, they are very intelligent breed that has the uncanny talent for problem solving.
The members of the breed are very mindful of their owner, once trained. Something first time pet owners should be aware of is the daunting task of “voice-training” these dogs. Being bred to bay while hunting, they are highly vocal.
The breed can be a very good family pet, if socialized properly from a young age. The Bluetick Coonhound dogs get along well with children in normal conditions. They are mindful and friendly dogs.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Bluetick Coonhound dogs is between 11 and 12 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Bluetick Coonhound dogs are medium to large in size. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium to large sized breed with high exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Bluetick Coonhound dogs. They are breed as hunting dogs and they benefit from getting plenty of exercise. Although, they also enjoy time spent snoozing at their owner’s feet.
As with all other breeds, early socialization and treats can be very useful aids in training these dogs.
The Bluetick Coonhound dogs have a short and glossy coat that sheds only moderately. Weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt, or a hound glove will help to remove loose hairs and keep him looking his best. They generally require only an occasional bath.
Health
The Bluetick Coonhound dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include hip dysplasia, cataracts and Krabbes disease. Always keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Bluetick Coonhound |
| Other Names | None |
| Breed Size | Medium to large |
| Height | Between 22 and 27 inches at the withers for males, and between 21 and 25 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 25 and 36 kg for males, and between 20 and 29 kg for the females |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Mottled Blue |
| Lifespan | Between 11 and 12 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | United States |
