Plott

Quick facts

	AKC Group:	Hound
	Height:	Male: 20-25 in., Female: 20-23 in.
	Weight:	Male: 50-60 lbs., Female: 40-55 lbs.
	Colors:	a shade of brindle in streaks or stripes, solid black and buckskin
AKC recognized in:		2006

The Plott Hound’s lineage can be traced back to Germany. From there, it descended from two breeds of German hunting dogs. This breed eventually immigrated to North Carolina where they have spread out ever since. The Plott family, from which this breed gets its name, successfully bred their dogs but rarely put them in the market. This resulted in the breed’s rarity outside the Southern United States.

Plott Hounds were used as hunting dogs mainly for hunting bear and boars. They were also used for searching wolves, coyotes and wildcats. Great courage and impressive stamina makes sure that this dog can keep up with this duty. They were specifically bred to become sturdy and determined. It is still used for hunting today although it has grown popular as a show dog as well.

This medium-sized dog sports a powerful and muscular body. Its skull is quite flat and has a long muzzle. The eyes are prominent and its ears are broad and moderately long. The coat may be single or double. Either way, it is short and glossy.

The Plott Hound gained recognition from the United Kennel Club in 1946. Its recognition from the American Kennel Club came much later and just recently in 2006.

Temperament

Plott Summary
Affection
Cold Tolerance
Ease of Training
Energy level
Exercise Requirements
Friendliness : Children
Friendliness: Other Animals
Friendliness: Other Pets
Grooming Requirements
Heat Tolerance
Playfulness
Protection Ability
Watchdog Ability

Like other dogs used for hunting, Plott Hounds are full of energy. As such, this breed is alert, swift and has keen senses. Its acute sense of smell makes it a very capable hunter. Loyalty and intelligence are among its most desirable characteristics. Dog training should prove too difficult with this dog.

Although raised as a hunter, Plott Hounds surprisingly get along with people. Parents should have no problems leaving this dog with their children. For this reason, they make great family pets. Depending on the strain, it may react differently to big game and smaller creatures. Caution should be exercised when it is around non-canine pets. Early socialization is the best answer to this potential problem.

Plott Hounds are courageous dogs. They will not hesitate even when faced with larger animals such as angry bears and other big game. Because of this, a firm hand is needed in dealing with this breed of dog.

Unlike other hounds, this breed has a high-pitched voice. Some may find this irritating especially when done inside the house.

Health and Exercise

Plott Hounds live an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. This is a tough breed through and through. It does not have many health problems and should have a relatively healthy life.

One thing to look out for is gastric torsion which can be contracted from its diet. This can be life threatening and owners should always take note of this fact. It is not ideal for exercise or any strenuous physical activity after a big meal.

This breed has demanding physical requirements. Its exercise regimen should include various physical activities such as brisk walking, running and jogging. Of course this requires a lot of space making this breed not suitable for life in the inner city.

Visitor Comments

This is your chance to add your feedback. Do you have a Plott in your family, or know one in someone elses? Do you have a story to tell related to that Plott? Or maybe you have more questions that either DogNation.net or another of our visitors might be able to help you with? Feel free to add your comment or question below.

There are 2 comments.

1

I got my Plott at a shelter in Virginia. Words can not tell you how special this breed is. Intelligent, kind, quiet, gentle, beautiful through & through.

2013-03-20 00:00:46

Smitten Plott owner

2

Have a Plott Boxer mix best dog I have ever owned. Loyal, protective, and great with children and other dogs. Great hiking buddy.

2013-05-05 11:21:16

mtnmankm

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