Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed [ FULL Guide + Pictures ]

If you’re a dog lover with a soft spot for intelligent, loyal, and hardworking breeds, then the Bluetick Coonhound may just be your perfect match. A breed deeply rooted in hunting history and proud of its heritage, the Bluetick is one of those dogs that combines both beauty and brains. Known for their impressive tracking skills and striking appearance, they are as much admired for their friendly demeanor as they are for their determination in the field. Whether you’re considering one as a companion or a working dog, there’s so much to love about the Bluetick Coonhound.

In this deep dive, we’re going to explore everything there is to know about this fascinating breed. From their origins to their physical traits, we’ll cover the essential information that will help you understand what makes the Bluetick Coonhound stand out.

Definition Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

The Bluetick Coonhound is a scent hound breed that was originally bred in the United States for hunting purposes. This breed is part of the broader Coonhound group, a collection of dogs specifically designed for tracking and treeing game, particularly raccoons, which is how they got the ’coonhound’ title.

• Hunting Heritage: Bluetick Coonhounds were developed in the late 1800s by combining the English Coonhound with a variety of European breeds, such as the French Grand Bleu de Gascogne, to achieve better stamina, scenting ability, and overall hunting performance.
• Versatile Workers: While they excel at hunting raccoons, Blueticks are also used for hunting larger game like bobcats, mountain lions, and even bears in some cases. Their scent-tracking ability is second to none, making them prized in the field.

What sets the Bluetick apart is its distinctive appearance, often described as “ticking”, where the coat displays small spots or freckles in varying shades of blue. But these dogs aren’t just about good looks-they are incredibly intelligent, independent, and determined, making them a solid choice for hunters who need a reliable companion.

Physical Characteristics Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

Bluetick Coonhounds are large, powerful dogs with an athletic build. Their physical traits speak to their working background, as they were bred for stamina and strength during long hours of tracking and hunting.

• Coat and Fur: The Bluetick has a short, dense coat that’s smooth to the touch, offering some weather resistance but needing regular care to maintain its sleek appearance. Their coat typically features a blue-gray background with dark black spots (ticking), along with some rust-colored patches around their eyes, ears, and legs.
• Eyes: One of the standout features of this breed is their sad-looking, soulful eyes. They have a slightly droopy expression, which is characteristic of many scent hounds. The eyes are typically dark brown or amber in color, adding to their ’heart-melting’ look.
• Ears: Their long, droopy ears are another iconic feature, often hanging down to the sides of their faces. These ears help trap scent particles, which is part of why Blueticks are so good at their job as scent hounds.
• Tail: Blueticks have a long, slightly curved tail that they carry high. It’s often described as looking like a flag waving in the air, especially when they’re on the trail of a scent or excited.
• Build: They have a muscular and athletic build, with strong, lean limbs designed for running long distances and climbing rough terrain. They are well-proportioned, with a broad chest, strong back, and a tail that typically tapers to a point.

Colors Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

When it comes to their color, Bluetick Coonhounds have a distinctive, striking appearance. Their coat is predominantly blue, with the characteristic ticking pattern, but there’s a lot of variation in the shades and combinations.

• Primary Coat Color: The main body color is typically a blue-gray that forms the ’tick’ pattern. This means their fur is a mixture of white and blue spots or patches across the body, giving them a “dappled” or “marbled” look.
• Ticking: This is the hallmark of the breed, where the blue background is speckled with darker spots of black, and sometimes even rust-colored patches. The ticking pattern can range from light to very dark blue.
• Rust Accents: Blueticks often have rust-colored markings around their eyes, cheeks, legs, and chest, providing a beautiful contrast to the blue coat. These rust patches add depth and warmth to their overall appearance.
• White Markings: Many Blueticks have some amount of white fur on their chest, belly, or feet, giving them that traditional ’tri-color’ look. This is especially common in younger dogs before their ticking pattern becomes fully developed.

Size Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

The Bluetick Coonhound is a medium to large-sized dog, built for strength, agility, and stamina.

• Height: Most Blueticks stand between 22 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. This variation is dependent on factors like gender, genetics, and whether the dog is bred to be a show dog or a working dog.
• Weight: They typically weigh between 45 to 80 pounds, with males generally being larger than females. Their solid, muscular frame helps them excel at the demanding physical activity required of hunting dogs.
• Proportions: Though they are taller dogs, Blueticks maintain a balanced build-long enough to cover ground quickly, but also sturdy enough to handle challenging terrain. They’re built for endurance, not speed, making them excellent long-distance runners.

Life Expectancy Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

Bluetick Coonhounds have a relatively healthy lifespan for a breed of their size, although, like all dogs, they are susceptible to certain health issues. On average, you can expect your Bluetick to live anywhere from 10 to 12 years. However, with proper care, they may live longer.

• Common Health Concerns

  • Hip Dysplasia: Like many larger breeds, Blueticks can suffer from hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that affects their hip joints.
  • Ear Infections: Due to their long, floppy ears, they are prone to ear infections if not cleaned regularly.
  • Elbow Dysplasia: Another common condition in larger dogs, which can affect the dog’s range of motion and cause discomfort.

• Healthy Lifespan Tips

  • Regular Vet Checkups: Routine checkups can help catch any health issues early, particularly with their joints and ears.
  • Proper Exercise: Blueticks are active dogs that require a lot of physical and mental stimulation. Regular walks and hunting trips will keep them fit and happy.
  • Nutrition: A balanced, high-quality diet is key to maintaining their health throughout their life.

Temperament Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

When you think of the Bluetick Coonhound, imagine a dog with energy, loyalty, and an excellent sense of smell. This breed is known for its versatility and hunting prowess, but let’s break it down a bit more.

• Friendly, But Independent: Blueticks are typically friendly and affectionate, but they aren’t clingy. They like to be near their people but enjoy having their space. This can sometimes be interpreted as independent or aloof, especially compared to other breeds that are more “velcro dogs”.
• Highly Intelligent: They’re smart, but not in a ’Hey, look at me, I”m a genius”! kind of way. It’s more like they’ve got a clever, analytical side-perfect for tracking and hunting. They pick up on commands and routines fairly quickly, but they’ll also test their boundaries, so it’s important to maintain consistency.
• Strong Prey Drive: This is one thing you’ll notice almost immediately. Blueticks were bred for hunting, and their instinct to track and chase is incredibly strong. This makes them excellent working dogs but can also mean they might chase small animals if not properly trained.
• Affectionate and Loyal: Although they have a sense of independence, Blueticks bond strongly with their families. They’re affectionate, often following their owners around and showing loyalty.
• Not Great for First-Time Dog Owners: If you’re new to dog ownership, a Bluetick might be a little more challenging due to their independent streak and high energy.

Any Shedding Issues For The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed?

The Bluetick Coonhound has a short, dense coat, and yes, like most dogs, they shed. However, the shedding isn’t usually excessive unless they’re in a seasonal shedding phase. Here’s what you can expect:

• Moderate Shedding: It’s not like a Golden Retriever where you’ll find fur all over your house. Blueticks shed year-round, but the amount is more on the moderate side.
• Seasonal Shedding: Expect a little more shedding during spring and fall when they “blow their coats”. This is just their way of adjusting to the changing weather.
• Minimal Grooming Impact: With regular grooming, shedding is usually manageable, but if you’re sensitive to dog hair, you might notice it more during peak shedding periods.

Grooming Needs For The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

Good news: Bluetick Coonhounds don’t require a ton of grooming, but they do have some specific needs that, if handled correctly, will keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Brushing

  • Blueticks have a short, smooth coat, which doesn’t tangle easily, but they do shed moderately. Brushing them weekly is ideal for removing dead hairs and keeping their coat looking neat. A good rubber curry brush or a hound glove works wonders.

• Bathing

  • Only bathe your Bluetick when necessary, as frequent baths can dry out their skin. They don’t get ’doggy odor’ as bad as some breeds, but if they’ve been rolling around in mud or dirt (which is likely, since they’re active and love the outdoors), a bath every month or two is enough.

• Ear Care

  • Bluetick Coonhounds have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and debris. It’s important to regularly check their ears for signs of infection (redness, odor, or excessive wax) and clean them with a dog-safe ear cleaner to prevent buildup.

• Nail Clipping

  • Like all dogs, their nails need to be trimmed regularly. If you can hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim. This helps prevent discomfort or issues with their gait.

• Dental Hygiene

  • Don’t neglect their teeth! Blueticks are prone to tartar buildup, so brushing their teeth a few times a week (or at least using dental chews) is a good idea.

Diet Requirements Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

Since the Bluetick Coonhound was bred for endurance, hunting, and long days of physical activity, they require a high-quality diet to fuel their energy. Here’s how you can ensure your Bluetick stays healthy and strong:

• High-Protein Diet

  • Blueticks thrive on a diet rich in protein. This is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and energy levels. Look for dog food with a high percentage of animal-based proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish.

• Fat Content

  • They also need a moderate amount of fat in their diet to support their energy demands. You’ll want to choose a dog food with around 8-15% fat, depending on their activity level.

• Active Dogs, Active Calories

  • If your Bluetick is an active working dog or gets a lot of exercise, they may need more calories to keep their energy levels up. On the other hand, if they’re less active, watch their calorie intake to prevent weight gain.

• Omega Fatty Acids

  • For healthy skin and a shiny coat, make sure their food contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These will help keep their coat looking its best and their skin itch-free.

• Avoid Overfeeding

  • Be careful with treats. Blueticks are often enthusiastic eaters, so portion control is essential to avoid obesity, which can lead to joint problems and other health issues.

Health Issues Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

Like all dog breeds, the Bluetick Coonhound has its fair share of potential health issues, though they are generally a robust breed. Here’s a breakdown:

• Hip Dysplasia

  • As with many larger breeds, Blueticks can be prone to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket properly. This can cause pain and lead to arthritis if left untreated.

• Ear Infections

  • Their long, floppy ears are prone to moisture and dirt buildup, making them susceptible to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning helps reduce this risk.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

  • This condition affects the eyes and leads to gradual blindness. It’s genetic, and while it doesn’t have a cure, early detection can help manage the symptoms.

• Coonhound Paralysis

  • Although rare, this breed is susceptible to a condition called Coonhound paralysis, which occurs after a bite from an infected raccoon. It can cause temporary paralysis, but most dogs recover with time and care.

• Obesity

  • If not properly exercised or overfed, Blueticks can become overweight, leading to joint problems and other related health issues.

Training And Exercise Needs Of The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Breed

This breed needs both mental and physical stimulation, as they were bred to work and hunt for hours on end. Here’s what you need to know:

• Exercise Requirements

  • Blueticks are active dogs and need at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily. This can include long walks, jogs, or even playtime in a secure, large yard. They’re naturally energetic, so keeping them active is key to preventing boredom and destructive behavior.

• Mental Stimulation

  • Since they’re intelligent, they also require mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, scent-based games (like hiding treats), and obedience training sessions can keep their minds sharp.

• Leash Training

  • With their high prey drive, Blueticks may pull on the leash when they catch a scent, so early leash training is a must. They tend to be strong, and a no-pull harness can be beneficial.

• Training Needs

  • They’re intelligent but independent, which can sometimes lead to stubbornness. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, are the way to go. Blueticks can be a bit of a challenge to train, especially if they get distracted by a scent. Be patient, consistent, and persistent.

• Hunting And Tracking

  • If you plan to train them for hunting or tracking, their natural instinct will serve them well. They excel in these areas but require a strong bond with their handler to stay focused on the task at hand.

FAQs

What Is A Bluetick Coonhound?

The Bluetick Coonhound is a breed of coonhound originally bred for hunting. Known for its distinctive blue coat with black spots, the breed is highly energetic, intelligent, and has an excellent sense of smell, making it ideal for tracking and hunting.

What Is The Temperament Of A Bluetick Coonhound?

Bluetick Coonhounds are known for being friendly, loyal, and independent. While they can be affectionate with their family, they are also highly focused on tasks like hunting. They tend to be good with children and other dogs but can be reserved with strangers.

How Much Exercise Does A Bluetick Coonhound Need?

Bluetick Coonhounds require a significant amount of exercise, as they were bred for hunting. They need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous physical activity daily, such as long walks, runs, or playtime in a secure, fenced area.

Are Bluetick Coonhounds Good Family Dogs?

Yes, Bluetick Coonhounds are generally good family dogs. They are gentle and patient with children but require early socialization and training to ensure they interact well with other pets and people. Their hunting instincts can sometimes make them more independent.

Do Bluetick Coonhounds Require A Lot Of Grooming?

No, Bluetick Coonhounds have short, low-maintenance coats. They require minimal grooming, with occasional brushing to keep shedding under control. They may need more frequent grooming during shedding seasons.

What Health Issues Are Common In Bluetick Coonhounds?

Like many dog breeds, Bluetick Coonhounds can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help mitigate some of these risks.

Are Bluetick Coonhounds Easy To Train?

Bluetick Coonhounds are intelligent but can be independent and stubborn, making training a challenge. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques and consistent, patient training. Early socialization is also essential.

What Is The Lifespan Of A Bluetick Coonhound?

The average lifespan of a Bluetick Coonhound is around 10 to 12 years. With proper care, some can live longer, but like all breeds, they are susceptible to age-related health problems as they grow older.

Do Bluetick Coonhounds Get Along With Other Pets?

Bluetick Coonhounds can get along with other pets, particularly if they are raised with them. However, due to their strong prey drive, they may not always be safe around smaller animals like cats or rabbits unless properly trained and supervised.

What Kind Of Environment Is Best For A Bluetick Coonhound?

Bluetick Coonhounds thrive in environments where they have plenty of space to roam and exercise. A large, securely fenced yard is ideal. They are best suited to active families or individuals who can provide them with the physical and mental stimulation they need.

Bluetick Coonhound Dog Pictures