Bluetick Coonhound

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment11–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Ear infections · Bloat (GDV)

The Bluetick Coonhound is a friendly, easygoing scenthound with a deep devotion to its family and a famously loud, musical voice. Bred to hunt at night by scent, it is intelligent, determined and hardy, but also affectionate and gentle at home, generally good with children and its own pack. Its powerful nose and single-minded focus on a trail mean it can be selectively deaf to recall when it catches an interesting smell. This is an athletic, high-stamina breed that needs plenty of daily exercise — long walks, running and scent-based activities keep it satisfied, and a securely fenced area is essential given its urge to follow its nose for miles. Blueticks are smart but independent and can be stubborn, so training requires patience, consistency and positive motivation, along with early work on recall (though a reliable off-leash return is never guaranteed). The short, dense coat is very low-maintenance, needing only occasional brushing, but the long ears must be cleaned regularly to prevent infection. The breed is generally healthy and robust, with hip dysplasia, ear infections, bloat and eye conditions among the concerns. Given exercise, companionship and an outlet for its nose, the Bluetick is a devoted, laid-back family hound.

• How much exercise does a Bluetick Coonhound need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Bluetick Coonhound need?

  Wash & go. The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Is a Bluetick Coonhound suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Bluetick Coonhound a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Bluetick Coonhound live?

  11–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Bluetick Coonhound?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Ear infections, Bloat (GDV). These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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