Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound is considered to be the all-American breed. Having been around since the 1700s, this dog is said to have been the result of crosses between the black and tan Virginia Foxhound and the Bloodhound.

Black and Tan Coonhounds were mostly used to hunt large animals such as bear, but they could also trap smaller prey like raccoons. They were popular among hunters specifically in the rugged areas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Smokey Mountains, and the Appalachian. Just like their Bloodhound ancestors, the Black and Tan Coonhound trails with their nose close to the ground and moving swiftly along, baying when the prey was trapped until the hunter arrived.

The Black and Tan Coonhound makes an excellent house dog, yet has retained its strong internal desire to hunt. Once properly trained they are calm, quiet, and moderately affectionate with the family indoors. When outside they will pick up a scent in a heartbeat, often getting vigorously excited when those hunting instincts take over. They are gentle around children but with their dominant personality, the Black and Tan Coonhound may be a little too rough with smaller kids.

Read more about the Black and Tan Coonhound.