Redbone Coonhound

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Ear infections · Obesity

The Redbone Coonhound is a striking flame-red American scent hound — immortalised in the novel 'Where the Red Fern Grows' — that is sweet-natured, eager and warmly affectionate. Versatile and hard-working in the field, it trails game all day and then wants to snuggle all evening, making it a loving family companion for an active household and generally good with children and other dogs. But it is a true scent hound: energetic, driven by its nose, and vocal, with a strong prey drive and unreliable recall once on a trail, so it needs plenty of daily exercise, a securely fenced yard, on-lead walks and patient, positive, food-motivated training. A bored, under-exercised Redbone becomes restless and noisy. The short coat is very easy, needing only a weekly brush, with regular cleaning of the drop ears. Health-wise the Redbone is a relatively robust, healthy breed, but buy from a reputable breeder and be aware of hip dysplasia, ear infections (from those long ears), progressive retinal atrophy, and a tendency to obesity, so watch the diet. Give a Redbone Coonhound serious exercise, scent work, secure containment and portion control, keep the ears clean, and this warm, eager hound will be a devoted companion for twelve to fifteen years.

• How much exercise does a Redbone Coonhound need?

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

• How much grooming does a Redbone Coonhound need?

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

• Is a Redbone Coonhound suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

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

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Redbone Coonhound live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Redbone Coonhound?

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

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