Read About American English Coonhound

The American English Coonhound was previously one of three dogs known as the "English Fox and Coonhound." Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium-Large dogs

2. Weight:

   40-65 lbs.

3. Coat:

   American English Coonhounds have a medium-length, protective coat with a hard texture.

4. Shedding:

   This breed sheds constantly.

5. Temperament:

   The American English Coonhound is an alert, sociable dog with confidence and a lively disposition. They are avid hunters.

6. Obedience:

   The breed can be very obedient, but is prey to normal scent hound distractibility.

7. Ease of Training:

   A strong, confident dog, the American English Coonhound needs patient, persistent training and a variety of things to do.

8. Way with Children:

   This breed can get along well with children.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Not recognized by the AKC, but accepted as one of their Foundation Stock Service® dogs.

2. Size & Weight:

   23-26"; 40-65 lbs.

3. Coat:

   American English Coonhounds have a medium-length, protective coat with a hard texture.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   American English Coonhounds have slightly domed, broad heads. The muzzle is well-shaped in width with the skull, square, and has well-shaped flews covering the lower jaw. Ears are floppy, nearly the length of the nose, and have rounded ends.

5. Body:

   The breed has a well-proportioned, classically hound-shaped body, with well-sprung ribs and a muscular back.

6. Colors:

   Ticked (red and white, blue and white, tri-colored), red and white, and white and black.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 years

8. Popularity:

   Popularity of this breed is hard to estimate, as they are not AKC-recognized. In addition, they are the #4 dog in the UKC (United Kennel Club) listings.

9. Habitat:

   This breed needs either a big yard or a rural setting. American English Coonhounds are not recommended for apartments or city living.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   US

2. Historical Information:

   Several breeds were selectively bred to create the current American English Coonhounds: foxhounds, French hounds, and some English hound types appear to have been the most common elements. The UKC originally recognized the dog as the English Fox & Coonhound, along with the now-separate breeds the Treeing Walker and Bluetick Coonhounds. The three are now accepted as separate lines. The breed is accepted as one of the AKC's Foundation Stock Service® dogs.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   The American English Coonhound is an alert, sociable dog with confidence and a lively disposition. They are avid hunters.

2. Behavior:

   Well-tempered, intelligent dogs, American English Coonhounds are generally well-behaved.

3. Habits:

   Like all intelligent hunting hounds, this breed will howl and be destructive if abandoned for too long.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   The breed can develop hip dysplasia.

2. Exercise Needs:

   American English Coonhounds need substantial exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Brush this dog about once a week, be sure to look at his ears regularly, and bathe only as needed.

4. Travel Needs:

   A relatively large dog, the American English Coonhound can be transported normally.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   This breed can get along well with other dogs and with children; as with all hounds, take care when attempting to socialize with pets other than dogs -- they might just look like prey to your American English Coonhound.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.