The American English Coonhound dog is a breed of coonhound. It has a high prey drive and it is typically used in coon hunting. It is also known by some other names such as English Coonhound and Redtick Coonhound.
The American English Coonhound breed was originated from United States, and it is typically bred in the Southern part of the country. It is descended from hunting hounds, especially Foxhounds, brought to America by settlers during the 17th and 18th Centuries.
The breed developed from ‘Virginia Hounds’, which were developed over time from dogs imported to the United States by Robert Brooke, Thomas Walker and the first President of the United States, George Washington.
The terrain here was much rougher than what they were used to, so the breed was specifically bred over time to better adapt to these new conditions. It was traditionally used to hunt raccoons by night and the American red fox by day.
The American English Coonhound dog breed’s first recognition came from the United Kennel Club in 1905, as the English Fox and Coonhound. Further recognition has been granted in recent years by the American Kennel Club, first in the Foundation Stock Service and in 2011 as a fully recognized member of the hound group.[1]
American English Coonhound Dog Characteristics
The American English Coonhound dog breed is of medium height and proportionate weight. Their coats come predominantly in three types; redtick, bluetick and tricolor tick pattern. However, red marking are predominant and ‘Redtick’ is a common euphemism for these dogs.
Some believe this lack of emphasis on specific coloration has allowed breeders to focus breeding programs on traits such as intelligence and hunting ability rather than superficial concerns like coat standards.
Average height of the mature American English Coonhound dogs is between 22 and 27 inches tall at the withers for males, and between 21 and 25 inches for the females. Average live body weight of the mature dog is between 18 and 30 kg.
Temperament
Like all other coonhounds, the American English Coonhound dogs are generally good natured and very sociable dogs. According to UKC breed standards, skittishness or aggression is considered a defect.
They are strong-willed, if not downright stubborn, and require more patience in training than other dog breeds. They are incessant nesters and should be avoided by people who do not wish to have dogs on their furniture. They make excellent family pets, as they have been bred to coexist amiably within a pack, as well as to be efficient hunters.
The American English Coonhound also make adequate watch dogs, as their vocalizations are characterized by melodious, drawn out bawls and short, explosive chops typical of Hound type dogs.
The American English Coonhound dogs require regular exercise to keep in prime condition. They have a high prey drive and will go after small animals unless time is taken to train them otherwise. Because of this, they are not generally recommended for households with small pets (unless they have been raised around small animals).
The American English Coonhound dogs are generally good with children and tend to be very loyal dogs that are eager to please their owners. Like most puppies, the younger American English Coonhounds can be quite inquisitive and destructive. Therefore, obedience training early on is highly recommended (as is providing them with plenty of attention and exercise).
Crate training from a young age is strongly recommended, as they are known to bark when caged.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the American English Coonhound dog 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. Consult with your vet for better recommendation.
Caring
Taking good care of the animal is very important for raising American English Coonhound dog. The American English Coonhound dogs are generally healthy, but it is recommended that prospective owners learn to recognize symptoms of bloat, as it’s large size and deep chest put the animals at risk of this condition.
The American English Coonhound dogs need a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. The breed has a very strong prey drive, so they should never be allowed off leash in an uncontrolled situation, as they will not be able to resist the instinct to follow an interesting scent they detect with their sensitive nose.
They generally require a fenced area where they can run freely. Chasing a ball in the backyard can be an excellent source of exercise.
Following through with proper early socialization of your American English Coonhound is paramount, or your puppy may become possessive over food or toys in your home. The key to a well-adjusted, mentally healthy dog is to have him experience positive interactions with many different kinds of people in a variety of places and situations.
Like many hounds, the American English Coonhound dogs have a split personality: tenacious, tireless, and stubborn on the trail, but at home these spirited hunters are sweetly amiable companions. Still, the breed’s limitless prey drive and energy, the patience it takes to train them for anything other than coon hunting, and their tendency to bark in a loud, ringing voice make them most appropriate for experienced dog owners.[2]
Health
The American English 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 and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, bloat, obesity etc. Always try to keep good contact with a vet.
| Breed Name | American English Coonhound |
| Other Names | English Coonhound and Redtick Coonhound |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Height | 22 and 27 inches tall at the withers for males, and between 21 and 25 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 18 and 30 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Tri-color, Red & White, Tri-color Ticked, Lemon & White, Redtick, Bluetick |
| Lifespan | Between 11 and 12 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | United States |
