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June 18, 2025
The American English Coonhound is a versatile, athletic, and friendly breed known for its powerful hunting ability and family-friendly temperament. Bred for tracking and treeing raccoons, this dog boasts exceptional endurance, a melodious voice, and a keen nose that makes it one of the most skilled scent hounds in the United States.
Despite its hunting origins, the American English Coonhound is also a loyal and affectionate companion, making it a great choice for active families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Trait | Description |
Origin | United States |
Breed Group | Hound |
Size | Medium to Large |
Weight | 45 to 75 lbs (20 to 34 kg) |
Height | 23 to 27 inches |
Lifespan | 10 to 12 years |
Coat Type | Short, hard, and close-fitting |
Colors | Red & white, black & white, blue tick, tricolor |
Temperament | Energetic, friendly, intelligent, determined |
Energy Level | Very high |
Good with Kids | Yes, with proper socialization |
Trainability | Moderate |
Shedding Level | Low to moderate |
The American English Coonhound is descended from English Foxhounds brought to America in the 17th and 18th centuries. Over time, these dogs were selectively bred in the American South to adapt to rugged terrain and develop the ability to trail and tree raccoons.
Originally known as the Virginia Hound, the breed became recognized as a distinct coonhound thanks to its exceptional speed, stamina, and vocal tracking skills. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 2011 under the Hound Group.
The American English Coonhound is lean yet muscular, built for speed and endurance. It displays a classic hound dog look with long legs, a deep chest, and a graceful gait.
Key Physical Features:
The most iconic appearance is the “redtick” coat—white with red ticking (freckles or speckles).
The American English Coonhound is known for its friendly and sociable personality, especially when raised in a family environment. Though bred as a working dog, it makes a loyal companion when provided enough mental and physical stimulation.
Common Behavioral Traits:
Due to its natural prey drive, care should be taken when introducing this breed to smaller animals like cats unless raised together.
This breed is not a couch potato. American English Coonhounds need vigorous exercise daily to stay happy and prevent behavioral issues.
Daily Exercise Needs:
They do best with owners who enjoy hiking, running, or spending a lot of time outdoors.
The American English Coonhound is low-maintenance in grooming, thanks to its short and durable coat.
Grooming Routine:
This breed sheds moderately year-round, with slightly heavier shedding during seasonal changes.
Coonhounds are intelligent, but their independent streak can make training a challenge for inexperienced owners. They respond best to positive reinforcement, consistency, and early socialization.
Training Tips:
Because they were bred to follow scents, recall training can be difficult. A secure leash or fenced area is highly recommended when outdoors.
The American English Coonhound is a generally healthy breed with few major genetic issues. However, some health conditions to watch for include:
Common Health Issues:
Lifespan:
With good care, this breed typically lives between 10 to 12 years. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and annual vet visits are key to a long, healthy life.
This breed thrives in homes where it can run, explore, and interact with its people. It’s not well-suited for a sedentary or indoor-only lifestyle.
✅ Best for:
❌ Not ideal for:
The American English Coonhound is an athletic, charming, and loyal breed that thrives on activity and companionship. With the right environment and guidance, they make wonderful family pets and excellent working dogs.
If you’re looking for a devoted adventure partner with a big voice and even bigger heart, the American English Coonhound could be your ideal match.
Yes, they’re affectionate and gentle when socialized properly.
Yes. They are known for their distinctive baying, especially when they catch a scent.
Not recommended unless you’re very active and can meet their exercise needs daily.
They can, especially when raised together—but care is needed with small animals due to their prey drive.
Choose this breed if you want:
Avoid if you want:
A breed suitable for apartment living with minimal time commitment
