Picture this: a sleek, powerful hound, eyes fixed intently, letting loose a resonant bay that echoes through the woods. That’s the quintessential image of the American English Coonhound, often called the "English Coonhound" or affectionately, the "Redtick Coonhound" (though not all are red-ticked!). These dogs are athletes wrapped in smooth coats, bursting with energy and an ancestral drive to pursue game, particularly raccoons, up trees. But beneath that determined hunter’s exterior often lies a surprisingly amiable and devoted companion, albeit one with a voice that carries and an independent streak a mile wide.
Overview and History
The American English Coonhound’s story begins not in England, despite the name, but firmly rooted in the American South. Its ancestors were English Foxhounds, brought over by settlers like Robert Brooke, George Washington, and Thomas Walker in the 17th and 18th centuries. These weren’t the refined foxhounds of manicured British estates; these were tough, adaptable dogs needed for rugged terrain and different quarry.
Colonists selectively bred these "Virginia Hounds" for speed, stamina, and the ability to track prey by scent, especially at night. They needed dogs fast enough to trail fox during the day but also methodical and persistent enough to track raccoons and opossums up trees after dark – a distinctly American style of hunting. Over time, strains developed, focusing on traits like a powerful voice to signal the treed quarry and a ‘cold nose’ (the ability to follow old scent trails).
Originally lumped together with other coonhound breeds under the umbrella term "English Fox and Coonhound" by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1905, the breedlines diverged. Breeds like the Treeing Walker and Bluetick Coonhound were eventually recognized separately, leaving the remaining dogs to become the English Coonhound. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed as the American English Coonhound in 2011, placing it in the Hound Group. While primarily known as a supreme hunting dog, their striking looks and (in the right home) friendly nature have earned them a place as companions too.
Physical Characteristics
Think sleek, streamlined power. The American English Coonhound is a medium-to-large sized dog, built for speed and endurance. Males typically stand 24-26 inches at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller at 23-25 inches, and they weigh in proportionately, usually between 45 and 65 pounds – lean muscle, not bulk.
Their coat is a defining feature: short, hard, and protective, designed to withstand rough underbrush without getting snagged. While "Redtick" is a common and famous pattern (a white background heavily speckled or ‘ticked’ with red), they come in several striking color combinations recognized by the breed standard:
- Redtick
- Bluetick (white background with black ticking)
- Tricolor with ticking (black, white, and tan with ticking)
- Red and white
- Black and white
A deep chest allows for great lung capacity, essential for those long chases, and their legs are long and straight, ending in compact, cat-like feet ideal for varied terrain. Their ears are low-set and long, framing a head with a kind, pleading expression typical of many hounds. Perhaps their most noticeable feature, besides the coat, is their tail – carried high and merrily, often described as a waving flag when they’re hot on a trail. You might notice subtle differences between dogs bred strictly for field work (often leaner, rangier) and those from show lines, but functionality remains key for both.
Temperament and Personality
So, what’s it actually like living with one of these dynamic dogs? Expect a blend of traits: relentless energy outdoors, surprisingly mellow indoors (once sufficiently exercised), and a voice you won’t soon forget. They possess that classic hound mix of independence and devotion.
General Temperament
These dogs are generally good-natured and sociable, especially with their families. They possess incredible stamina and a powerful prey drive – unsurprising given their history. Playfulness persists well into adulthood, but their idea of play often involves running and chasing.
While friendly towards people, they aren’t typically aggressive guard dogs, though their booming bark will certainly alert you to strangers. Their energy level? High. Very high. Think marathon runner, not couch potato.
Suitability for Different Households
An American English Coonhound thrives best in an active home, ideally in a rural or suburban setting with ample space to run safely. City or apartment living can be challenging unless the owner is exceptionally committed to providing extensive daily exercise and scent work. They generally bond well with active families and can be good with older, respectful children who understand how to interact with a large, energetic dog.
Singles or couples who love the outdoors – hikers, runners, hunters – often find a perfect partner in this breed. However, they might not be the best fit for seniors or sedentary households due to their demanding exercise needs and potential for loud vocalizations. Their need for companionship also means they don’t do well left alone for very long periods; boredom can lead to howling concerts and destructive behavior.
Compatibility with Other Pets
With other dogs, American English Coonhounds are usually quite sociable, often enjoying the company of a canine pack, harkening back to their hunting heritage. Early socialization is key, as always. However, that powerful prey drive can be a significant issue with smaller animals like cats, rabbits, or hamsters.
While some can be raised successfully with cats if introduced carefully from puppyhood, many owners find the instinct to chase too strong to ever fully trust them unsupervised around smaller pets. Anything small and fast-moving outdoors is likely to be considered fair game. Caution and secure fencing are musts.
Typical Behavioral Characteristics
Let’s talk traits. Stubborn? Yes, they can be. They were bred to think independently on the trail, sometimes far from their handler. Patience and creative, positive reinforcement training are essential.
Vocal? Absolutely. That characteristic baying and bawling is music to a hunter’s ears but can be less appreciated by close neighbors. They will often "talk" or bay when excited, bored, or tracking an interesting scent (even if that scent is just the neighbor’s barbecue). Eager to please? Sometimes, but often their own nose and instincts take precedence. Their world revolves around scent!
Breed Group
The American English Coonhound is classified in the Hound Group by both the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC). This group is home to breeds developed primarily to pursue warm-blooded quarry, relying either on incredible stamina and scenting ability (scent hounds) or keen eyesight and speed (sighthounds). The American English Coonhound falls squarely into the scent hound category.
Being in the Hound Group tells you a lot about their core nature. These breeds are typically driven by their noses, possess impressive endurance, and often have a distinctive voice used during the hunt. They tend to be independent thinkers, as they often needed to work far ahead of their human partners. Compared to other coonhounds within the group, like the Black and Tan or the Bluetick, the American English is often noted for its exceptional speed and hotter nose (preferring fresher trails), though breed enthusiasts might debate these nuances endlessly! Unlike sighthounds built purely for speed bursts (like Greyhounds), coonhounds are endurance athletes designed for the long haul over challenging terrain.
Exercise & Activity Needs
Underestimating the exercise needs of an American English Coonhound is a common mistake. These are not dogs content with a brief stroll around the block. Think hours, not minutes, of activity daily.
A minimum of one to two hours of vigorous exercise per day is usually recommended. This could include:
- Long, brisk walks or hikes (leashed, due to prey drive)
- Jogging or running alongside a bike (once fully grown)
- Extended playtime in a securely fenced large yard
- Scent work games or tracking activities
Their inherent "job" is to follow a scent trail, often for miles, culminating in treeing their quarry. To keep them happy and well-behaved, you need to provide outlets for this intense drive. Activities like recreational tracking, scent work trials (nose work), or even cani-cross are fantastic ways to engage both their body and mind. Without sufficient physical and mental stimulation, they’re prone to boredom, which often manifests as excessive barking, digging, or trying to escape to find their own fun.
Diet and Nutrition
Fueling such an energetic athlete requires a high-quality diet. Active American English Coonhounds burn a significant number of calories. Their specific needs will vary based on age, activity level, metabolism, and overall health, but generally, they require a protein-rich food formulated for active, medium-to-large breeds.
Puppies need food designed for growth, usually fed in several small meals per day. Adults typically do well on two meals daily. Working hounds may need performance formulas with higher fat and protein content, especially during hunting season. Always monitor their body condition; you should be able to feel their ribs easily but not see them prominently.
While not known for widespread allergies like some other breeds, individual dogs can develop sensitivities to certain ingredients (like corn, wheat, soy, or specific proteins). If you notice skin issues or digestive upset, consult your vet about potential dietary adjustments. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements (fish oil) can be beneficial for coat and skin health, but always discuss supplements with your veterinarian first. Ensure constant access to fresh water, especially after exercise.
Grooming and Care
Compared to many breeds, the American English Coonhound is relatively low-maintenance in the grooming department, but they do have specific needs. Their short, hard coat is thankfully easy to care for. A quick brush once or twice a week with a hound mitt or rubber curry brush is usually enough to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils.
They do shed moderately year-round, perhaps a bit more seasonally. Baths are only needed occasionally, when they get particularly dirty or start to develop that distinct "houndy" odor – which, be warned, many hounds have! The biggest grooming commitments are their ears and nails.
Those long, floppy ears trap moisture and debris, making them prone to infections. Check and clean their ears weekly using a vet-approved solution, especially if they swim or spend a lot of time outdoors. Keep their nails trimmed regularly (usually every few weeks) to prevent painful overgrowth and splitting; if you can hear their nails clicking on the floor, they’re likely too long. Don’t forget dental care – regular brushing helps prevent gum disease and keeps their breath fresher.
Common Health Issues
The American English Coonhound is generally considered a robust and healthy breed, particularly working lines which are often bred primarily for ability and stamina. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their stock for known issues.
Potential concerns include:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Malformation of these joints can lead to arthritis. Screening x-rays (OFA or PennHIP) are recommended for breeding dogs.
- Eye Conditions: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts can occur. Eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist (CAER) are advisable.
- Ear Infections (Otitis Externa): Due to their ear structure, regular cleaning is crucial to prevent chronic infections.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV): A life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists. Knowing the signs and risk factors (e.g., eating too fast, exercising after meals) is vital for large, deep-chested breeds. Coonhound Hyperthyroidism is also something seen in the breed.
Their average lifespan is typically around 11 to 12 years. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and prompt attention to any health concerns are essential for a long, healthy life. Prospective owners should always ask breeders about the health clearances performed on the parents of a litter.
Training and Socialization
Training an American English Coonhound requires patience, consistency, and a good sense of humor. They are intelligent dogs, but their independent nature and powerful instincts mean they aren’t always the most biddable students, especially when an interesting scent wafts by. Forget harsh methods; these sensitive hounds respond best to positive reinforcement techniques using treats, praise, and play.
Housebreaking is generally straightforward with consistency. Basic obedience commands like sit, stay, and come are achievable, but recall can be a lifelong challenge due to their instinct to follow their nose. Never trust an American English Coonhound off-leash in an unsecured area – that prey drive is strong, and once they’re on a scent, your calls might fall on deaf ears. Keep training sessions short, engaging, and fun to hold their attention.
Early and ongoing socialization is absolutely critical. Expose your puppy to a wide variety of sights, sounds, people, and other dogs in a positive way from a young age. This helps them grow into well-adjusted adults and mitigates potential issues like fearfulness or reactivity. Addressing their potential for vocalization early, perhaps by teaching a "quiet" command (with realistic expectations!), is also wise.
Is the American English Coonhound Right for You?
This breed isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay! An ideal American English Coonhound owner is active, patient, and experienced with hounds or similarly driven breeds. They need someone who understands and appreciates their hunting heritage and is prepared to meet their significant exercise and mental stimulation needs.
A house with a securely fenced yard, preferably in a suburban or rural environment, is almost essential. Apartment living is generally not recommended unless the owner is exceptionally dedicated to providing hours of outdoor activity daily and has tolerant neighbors (remember the baying!). These dogs need space and opportunity to run.
Potential owners must be prepared for the time commitment involved in exercise, training, and socialization. You also need to be comfortable with shedding, potential hound odor, and, yes, noise. If you’re looking for a quiet lap dog that needs minimal exercise, this is definitely not the breed for you. A common misconception is that their energy means they’re always hyper; well-exercised adults are often calm indoors. But the "dealbreaker" for many is the combination of high exercise needs, strong prey drive, and vocal tendencies.
FAQs about the American English Coonhound
-
How much do American English Coonhounds bark/bay?
A lot, potentially. They were bred to use their voice while hunting. Expect regular baying, especially when excited, bored, or tracking scents. Training can help manage it, but it’s an ingrained trait. -
Are they good family dogs?
They can be, especially with older, considerate children in active families. Their energy and prey drive require supervision, particularly around very young kids. Their loyalty and affectionate nature shine in the right environment. -
Can they live in apartments?
It’s generally not recommended. Their high energy levels, need for space, and tendency towards vocalization make apartment living very challenging for both the dog and the owner (and neighbors). -
Are they good for first-time dog owners?
Usually not. Their intelligence combined with stubbornness, high exercise needs, strong prey drive, and vocal nature require experienced handling, patience, and commitment that can be overwhelming for novices. -
How much exercise do they need?
A significant amount – think 1-2 hours of vigorous activity daily, plus mental stimulation. A short walk won’t cut it. -
Do they shed a lot?
They have moderate year-round shedding, with potential seasonal peaks. Regular brushing helps manage it. -
Are American English Coonhounds hypoallergenic?
No, they are not hypoallergenic. They shed and produce dander like most dogs. - What is their prey drive like?
Very high. They have a strong instinct to chase small animals. Secure fencing and on-leash walks are necessary for their safety and the safety of neighborhood critters.
Related Resources & Comparisons
If the American English Coonhound intrigues you, you might also be interested in other coonhound breeds. How do they compare?
- Treeing Walker Coonhound: Often considered even faster and potentially "hotter-nosed" (preferring very fresh trails) than the English. Similar temperament but perhaps slightly more intense drive.
- Bluetick Coonhound: Known for their colder nose (better at older trails) and often described as slightly more methodical hunters. Can sometimes be a bit more laid-back than the English or Walker, but still very high energy.
- Black and Tan Coonhound: Generally larger and heavier-boned, known for their deep, booming bay. May be slightly more mellow than the English, but still require significant exercise.
- Redbone Coonhound: Solid red in color, known for their agility and skill in various terrains, including water. Similar energy and drive to the English.
- Plott Hound: Unique among coonhounds as they descend from German hounds, originally used for boar hunting. Known for exceptional grit and a distinctive brindle coat.
Breed-Specific Resources:
- American English Coonhound Association (AECHA): The official AKC parent club, offering breeder referrals, breed standards, and event information. ([Look up current official website if needed])
- United Kennel Club (UKC): Provides breed standards and recognizes various coonhound field events where the breed excels. ([Look up current official website if needed])
- American Coonhound Rescue Organizations: Various regional and national groups specialize in rescuing and rehoming coonhounds, including American English Coonhounds. Searching online for "American English Coonhound Rescue" will yield results specific to your area.