Copper the Black and Tan Coonhound
blak uh n tan koon-hound
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large, determined hunting hound. The head is well-proportioned to the body. The length of the Black and Tan's body is equal to or slightly longer than the height of the dog at the withers. The topline is level. The relatively long head has an oval outline. The muzzle is long. The stop is medium, between the nose and the back of the head. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The round looking eyes are hazel to dark brown. The long ears are set low, hanging, reaching beyond the tip of the nose. The legs are long and straight. The nose is wide and black. The strong tail is carried freely. The dog's skin fits loosely. The short, dense coat is black with distinct tan markings on the muzzle, limbs and chest.
A quick-to-follow, intelligent, loyal and good-natured hunter and companion, the Black and Tan Coonhound pleases hunter and owner alike. The Black and Tan is an alert, eager dog who is a passionate worker and very dedicated. It is gentle and friendly with people and willing to listen to his master. Any Black and Tan that shows signs of aggression does not have an owner who is communicating to the dog that human are alpha over him in a way the dog can understand. This may cause the dog to be protective and a bit reserved with strangers. They are usually best with older considerate children, but can do well with younger children if the dog is taught to respect the child as above him in the pecking order. A Black and Tan that is not taught respect and/or is lacking in exercise can become high strung and play too rough. This breed requires firm, patient and on-going leadership and training to prevent them from becoming willful. Lack of leadership and/or mental and physical exercise may cause separation anxiety, causing them to be destructive and/or howl if they are left alone. Do not let this breed off the leash in an unsafe area, as they may take off after an interesting scent. Some Black and Tans will be aggressive with other strange dogs if the humans are not displaying enough authority, telling the dog it is an unacceptable behavior by applying corrections at the appropriate times. Socialize well. There are two types of Black and Tan Coonhounds: field lines and show lines (bench). Field types are bred for hunting and field trial work. The bench type is bred for conformation shows. Both types are energetic and need daily exercise, but field lines have a higher energy level and need even more exercise. The dominancy level in this breed varies even within the same litter. If you are not the type of person who can display a natural air of calm, but firm authority, then be sure to choose a pup that is more submissive. The temperament of both show and field lines vary widely, depending upon how the owners treat the dog and how much and what type of exercise they provide. This breed drools and slobbers. Does best with an active family.
Height: 23 - 27 inches (58 - 68 cm)
Weight: 50 - 75 pounds (45 - 64 kg)
Prone to hip dysplasia. Gains weight easily; do not overfeed.
The Black and Tan Coonhound is not recommended for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard.
Vigorous daily exercise is needed, which includes a long walk each day. Does best with an active family. Will do well with a job to do.
About 10-12 years
Average 7 - 8 puppies
An occasional brushing will do. In order to keep the ears clean and infection-free, regular attention is a must.
The Black and Tan Coonhound was developed by crossing the Talbot Hound (now extinct) with the Bloodhound and black and tan Foxhound. The Black and Tan Coonhound was the first coonhound to be considered a separate breed from the Foxhound. The Black and Tan was best known for its use in trailing and treeing raccoon, howling at his quarry. This working coonhound has very successfully been used to hunt other types of game such as bear, stag, opossum, deer and mountain lion, even on difficult terrain. It withstands well the rigors of winter as well as intense heat. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1945. Some of the Black and Tan Coonhounds talent's include hunting, tracking, watchdog and agility.
Hound, AKC Hound
Nash the Black and Tan Coonhound puppy at 3 1/2 months old—"Nash is a Black and Tan Coonhound Pup from a breeder just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. He loves to run around and play with other dogs. He already has quite the set of vocal cords."
Nash the Black and Tan Coonhound puppy at 3 1/2 months old
This is BISS Ch. SilverRidge Slew of Gold. He finished his career in the top 15 in the history of the breed. Photo courtesy of Linda, Harry, Aretha and Fatima
Copper the Black and Tan Coonhound as a 3-month-old puppy
Copper the Black and Tan Coonhound at 19 months old
Copper the Black and Tan Coonhound at 19 months old
In about 30 seconds, this ball would be in his belly! No worries, the ball was taken away from Copper.
