Black and Tan Coonhound

Black and Tan Coonhounds are a hunting breed with a keen nose and an impressive howl, but they also make fantastic family companions. Black and Tans have exuberant puppy energy that lasts into adulthood—these comedians-in-fur will do anything for a laugh. Though they possess plenty of working-dog energy, they are laid back indoors. A Black and Tan is fairly likely to edge his way into your spot on the couch. That’s not the only thing they’ll steal, either. Countertops and trash bins must be dog-proofed if you share your home with a B&T—they’re notorious counter surfers who will eat anything they can reach. They can be stubborn, so training may be a challenge for a first-time or too-lenient dog owner, but with consistent positive reinforcement methods—and with plenty of high-impact treats—you’ll earn a friendly, affectionate companion.

Other Names

The Black and Tan Coonhound is also called Coonhound or Black and Tan, and occasionally B&T.

Physical Description

Coat

Black and Tans have a thick, smooth, glossy coat in a rich black, with tan trim.

Height

Average Height: 23-27 inches

Male: 25-27 inches at the shoulder

Female: 23-25 inches at the shoulder

Breed Standard & History

This working dog should appear as such, suggesting the alertness and power one would expect from a strong hunting dog. The Black and Tan has an alert and friendly expression. Dark eyes are desirable, while light or yellow eyes are faulted. Their low, long ears hang in folds. A muscular neck and body offer a powerful appearance, complemented by muscular fore- and hindquarters. The short, sleek coat must be a coal black with rich tan markings above the eyes (pumpkin seeds), on the muzzle, chest, and legs. The Black and Tan Coonhound is outgoing and friendly and may be shy, but never aggressive. As a working dog, scars are not faulted. – AKC Breed Standards

The Black and Tan Coonhound got his start in 18th-century America as a raccoon and small game hunting companion. Older hunting breeds like the Bloodhound and Foxhound were used to develop the Black and Tan with the intention to create a hardworking dog with a cold nose and plenty of determination.

George Washington was fond of dogs and kept many different breeds, including a variety of hounds; it is rumored four of them were Black and Tans with the convivial names Drunkard, Taster, Tippler, and Tipsy.

The AKC recognized the Black and Tan Coonhound in 1945.

AKC Breed Category

Hound Group

Personality

General Temperament

Black and Tans have two modes: easygoing, ready-to-relax couch potato, and raring-to-go, on-the-scent hunting dog. They’re devoted to family and are kind and gentle with people of all ages. Puppy-like playfulness and goofy behaviors stick with the Black and Tan well into adulthood. They can be stubborn, and owners without hunting dog experience may be overwhelmed by the B&T’s tendency to take off after a scent, but with enough exercise and consistent training, they make mellow companions.

Family Life

Are Black and Tan Coonhounds Good with Kids? Small children may be overwhelmed by their large size and exuberance, but Black and Tans are gentle, affectionate dogs who do well with kids. While they’re patient and tolerant, however, no dog should be subjected to unnecessary poking, prodding, or teasing.

Are Black and Tan Coonhounds Good with Other Pets? Black and Tan Coonhounds tend to get along well with other dogs and may be able to live with a dog-experienced cat. Their hunting instinct makes them unsuitable for small animals such as rats, hamsters, or rabbits.

Protective

The ever-vigilant Black and Tan Coonhound is an alert watchdog who will let you know if anyone—human or animal—sets foot on his property. They're too friendly and gentle for guard dog duty.

Energy Levels

Puppy-like energy will last into adulthood, and they have a high level of energy while outdoors. With enough exercise and play, Black and Tans are calm, relaxed indoor companions who always finds the best napping spots.

Specific Concerns

• Black and Tan Coonhounds are known to howl and bay.
• If he catches a scent, a B&T is likely to follow it despite your recall.
• Tenacious B&Ts may be difficult to train.
• This is a working dog who needs a job to do.

Requirements

Indoor

With enough exercise, Black and Tan Coonhounds are laid-back indoor companions. They're happy to rest at your feet—or in your lap—for as long as you'll let them. Because they are known for their mournful-sounding bay and need space to run, they're not ideal apartment dogs.

Outdoor

Black and Tans are rugged enough for the hunt and outdoor pursuits, and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They prefer to be near their people rather than outside in a kennel. While outside, they should be supervised and either leashed or kept in an area with a five-foot-high fence. Keeping them secure is important as their ears often shut off when their nose kicks in. If a Black and Tan catches a scent, he will follow it, so a personalized collar with your phone number on it is also important, should he get loose.

Exercise

Between half an hour to one hour of exercise per day will help keep the Black and Tan Coonhound well behaved and in good health. With enough exercise, they are often calm and relaxed indoors.

Endurance

Endurance was a top consideration in the development of the Black and Tan. They were made to travel rugged terrain and spend long days or nights on the hunt.

Activity distance rating

• Running Miles: Though a Black and Tan has the stamina to run up to five miles, his nose is likely to distract him from the task at hand. Short jogs and leisurely walks—with sniffing breaks—are more the B&T's pace.
• Hiking Miles: The Black and Tan Coonhound may enjoy long hikes, but he must be kept on leash to prevent wandering in search of wildlife.

Food

The general recommendation for how much high-quality dry dog food to feed a Black and Tan Coonhound is 3 to 5 cups per day, split between two or three meals. This amount is based on average weight and activity level. Because they are prone to bloat, the food bowl should be raised and activity limited for an hour following meals.

While Black and Tans aren't more likely to guard their food than any other breed, children should never be allowed to touch or remove food from any dog while it is eating.

Alone Time

With enough exercise, a Black and Tan may be able to stay home alone for five to eight hours during the day, but this counter surfer may benefit from a crate to keep him safe—and out of your trash and snacks.

Health and Grooming

Life Expectancy

10-12 years

Grooming

Minimal effort is required to groom the Black and Tan Coonhound. Weekly brushing and baths as necessary will keep his coat in good condition. Expect some drool, especially in hot weather or right after a meal. Regular ear cleaning is necessary to prevent ear infections. Trimming nails regularly will help prevent painful splitting, cracking, or a broken nail.

Common Health Issues

Black and Tan Coonhounds are generally healthy, though they may present breed-specific health concerns, including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Ear infections
• Blood clotting disorders
• Working injuries
• Hypothyroidism
• Minor eye concerns
• Bloat

You can minimize serious health concerns in a Black and Tan Coonhound by purchasing him from a reputable breeder who engages in responsible breeding practices, and through screening for common diseases and conditions.