Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed [ FULL Guide + Pictures ]

The Treeing Walker Coonhound is one of the most beloved and versatile breeds among hunting dogs. With a reputation for being agile, intelligent, and incredibly determined, these dogs are often seen in action in the field, tirelessly pursuing their quarry. But they aren’t just working dogs; they’re also affectionate companions who can adapt to family life when well-trained.

This breed is part of the larger Coonhound family, a group of dogs known for their exceptional scenting ability and treeing instinct. They’re called "treeing" because, once they have tracked their prey, they will chase it up into a tree and then bark until their human handler arrives to collect them.

Definition Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a medium to large-sized hound, originally bred in the U.S. for hunting raccoons, squirrels, and other small to medium-sized game. They are well-known for their stamina, speed, and determination, making them exceptional at tracking scents and working in challenging terrains.

• Purpose: Bred specifically for hunting, their role is to track and tree prey, making them an invaluable tool in the field for hunters.
• Coat: They have short, smooth coats that are easy to groom, making them relatively low-maintenance in that regard.
• Personality: These dogs are energetic, independent, and intelligent, which makes them great working dogs but can sometimes make them a bit challenging for first-time dog owners.

The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a striking combination of brains, agility, and endurance, and they’re recognized for their ability to make a deep and lasting bond with their families once they have a strong connection.

Physical Characteristics Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

When it comes to physical traits, the Treeing Walker Coonhound is all about athleticism and endurance. This breed is built for long hours of work and will rarely tire out when on a hunt. Here are the key features:

• Body Structure

  • Sleek and muscular, the Treeing Walker has a strong, athletic frame that allows them to run long distances and navigate rough terrain with ease.
  • Their bodies are proportionate-neither too bulky nor too slim-which contributes to their agility.

• Head & Face

  • The breed has a long, narrow head with a refined, elegant expression. They have a strong, straight back skull and a slight, pronounced stop between the eyes.
  • Their ears are long, somewhat droopy, and often hang low, adding to their distinctive hound appearance. These ears also help with scenting.
  • Their eyes are typically a rich brown and express intelligence and alertness. When they’re working, those eyes are always scanning the horizon.

• Tail

  • The tail is typically carried in a gentle upward curve, which can be seen as a signature of the breed when it’s on the move.
  • It’s long and tapered and moves with excitement when they’re on the hunt or enjoying themselves.

Colors Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

Aesthetically, the Treeing Walker Coonhound is beautiful with its distinct and well-known color combinations. These colors help them blend into their natural environment when hunting, as well as give them that ’classic’ hound look. Let’s break down the typical coat colors:

• Tri-Color Pattern

  • This is the most common coloration and the breed standard. It features a mixture of white, black, and tan.
  • The white color is typically the predominant background, with black and tan markings on the back, ears, face, and legs.
  • The tan markings are often found on the eyebrows, cheeks, legs, and under the tail.

• Bi-Color Option

  • Occasionally, a Treeing Walker Coonhound may come in a bi-color coat, most often black and white or tan and white, though this is less common.

• Markings

  • Markings are usually sharp and clear, adding to the breed’s elegance and helping them stand out in a crowd.
  • Their markings often resemble a well-balanced “patchwork”, with a clear definition between the colors.

Their smooth coat is short, and while it requires minimal grooming, you’ll often find yourself cleaning off dirt after their adventures in the wild!

Size Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

The Treeing Walker Coonhound is considered a medium-to-large breed, making them a great option for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.

• Height

  • Males typically stand between 22 to 27 inches at the shoulder.
  • Females tend to be slightly smaller, ranging from 21 to 26 inches tall.

• Weight

  • Males weigh between 50 to 70 pounds.
  • Females are typically lighter, weighing between 40 to 60 pounds.

Despite their size, they have a lean, athletic frame that is built for speed and endurance rather than bulk. This means they are capable of chasing prey for long distances without tiring quickly, which is one of their standout traits.

Life Expectancy Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

One of the standout features of the Treeing Walker Coonhound is their life expectancy, which is typically on the higher end for dogs of their size and activity level.

• Average Lifespan: The Treeing Walker Coonhound typically lives anywhere from 12 to 15 years.

• Factors affecting lifespan:

  • Genetics: Like many dogs, genetics play a significant role in their overall health and longevity.
  • Exercise: Since they’re such active dogs, keeping them physically fit and mentally stimulated can help them live longer and healthier lives.
  • Health Care: Regular vet checkups and preventative health care are essential for avoiding common health issues, such as hip dysplasia, ear infections (due to their long ears), and eye problems.

Their longer lifespan is a great advantage for families who want a lifelong companion that will stay active and happy well into their senior years. They also tend to age gracefully, staying sprightly well into their older years as long as they remain in good health.

Temperament Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a highly energetic, intelligent, and loyal breed with a unique temperament that makes them stand out among other hunting dogs. Here’s a deeper look into their personality:

• Friendly And Affectionate

  • This breed is known for being affectionate towards their family members. They form strong bonds with their owners, often seeking out attention and companionship. While they are independent and confident, they enjoy being close to their human family.
  • They are great around kids, and often gentle, but due to their hunting background, they might unintentionally knock over a small child while playing due to their enthusiasm.

• Independent But Trainable

  • Although these dogs are very independent, they’re still incredibly trainable. They’re bred to work with hunters, so they are accustomed to taking initiative, but they are also responsive to commands. Consistent, positive reinforcement works best with them.
  • Their intelligence makes them eager to please, but they may need firm and experienced handling, especially because they tend to get distracted by scents and sounds in their environment.

• Energetic And Adventurous

  • These hounds have a very active temperament. If you’re considering bringing one into your home, be prepared for a high-energy dog that requires plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
  • They love to run and explore, so having a large, securely fenced yard or access to a safe outdoor space is a must. Expect them to be very vocal, particularly if they’re on a scent trail or excited.

• Hunter Instincts

  • Their instincts as a hunting dog breed are strong. Treeing Walker Coonhounds have an innate ability to track scents for long distances, and they may fixate on prey (real or imagined). This means they have the potential to become distracted and wander off if not properly supervised, especially if they catch a strong scent.
  • These instincts are also why they’re great dogs for active and outdoor-focused families but might be challenging in urban settings.

Any Shedding Issues For The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed?

• Moderate Shedding

  • While the Treeing Walker Coonhound isn’t an excessive shedder, they do shed a moderate amount throughout the year. Most shedding occurs during seasonal changes, particularly in spring and fall when their coat thins out for warmer or colder weather.
  • Expect to see hair around the house, especially if your dog spends time outdoors where they can get dirty or wet, which sometimes leads to more noticeable shedding.

• Coat Maintenance

  • Their short, dense coat is relatively low-maintenance in terms of shedding. Regular brushing (about once a week) can help keep shedding manageable by removing loose hair and dirt. This also helps reduce the risk of mats or tangles forming.
  • If you’re particularly sensitive to shedding, you may want to use a de-shedding tool to catch more of the hair that would otherwise fall around your home.

• Potential For Allergies

  • While not generally known for being a major allergen source, the shedding and dander from Treeing Walker Coonhounds can still affect people with sensitivities. Regular grooming and cleaning of your home can help reduce allergens.

Grooming Needs For The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

• Coat Care

  • The Treeing Walker Coonhound has a short, smooth coat that’s fairly easy to care for. Brushing a couple of times a week will help keep their fur sleek, healthy, and remove loose hair.
  • Even though they don’t need frequent baths, they do enjoy outdoor activities, so you’ll likely need to bathe them every few weeks, especially if they’ve gotten into mud or water during a hunt or outdoor playtime.

• Ear Care

  • One important grooming aspect to remember is the care of their floppy, long ears. Coonhounds have ears that can be prone to infection because they trap moisture and debris.
  • It’s a good idea to check and clean their ears regularly with a vet-recommended ear cleanser to prevent wax buildup or infections, especially after a particularly muddy or wet outing.

• Nail Trimming

  • Like most active dogs, their nails can get worn down naturally, but regular trimming is still necessary to prevent overgrowth. Aim to trim their nails every 4 to 6 weeks.

• Dental Hygiene

  • As with all dogs, dental care is important. Treeing Walkers tend to have a strong bite, but their teeth should be cleaned regularly to prevent tartar buildup and maintain oral health. Use dog-safe toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Diet Requirements Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

• Nutritional Needs

  • Treeing Walker Coonhounds are active dogs with a lean body, requiring a balanced diet to fuel their energy levels. Their diet should consist of high-quality protein (like chicken, turkey, or beef) and fats to provide sustained energy.
  • They are medium to large-sized dogs, and you’ll want to feed them a food that is designed for their size and activity level. Look for foods labeled for large or active breeds, as they have higher levels of protein and fat.

• Feeding Frequency

  • Generally, adult Treeing Walkers do well with two meals per day. Puppies will need more frequent feedings (about three times a day) to help them grow at a healthy rate.

• Food Sensitivities

  • Some Treeing Walkers might develop sensitivities to specific ingredients like grains or chicken. If your dog starts showing signs of food allergies (like itching, digestive upset, or skin issues), consult with your vet to find a suitable food option.

• Portion Control

  • Like any active dog, they can become overweight if overfed, especially if they’re not getting enough exercise. Keep an eye on their weight and adjust portions accordingly.

Health Issues Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

• Hip Dysplasia

  • As with many larger breeds, Treeing Walkers can suffer from hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. This can cause pain and arthritis over time. Regular vet check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight are important to manage this risk.

• Ear Infections

  • Because of their floppy ears, these dogs are more prone to ear infections. It’s essential to keep the ears clean and dry to prevent issues like ear mites or yeast infections.

• Heart Conditions

  • While not the most common issue, some Treeing Walkers can be prone to heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), particularly as they age. Routine vet visits and heart screenings are advisable.

• Eye Conditions

  • Some Treeing Walkers can suffer from eye conditions like cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can lead to vision impairment over time.

• Cancers

  • Like many breeds, they are somewhat susceptible to certain cancers, including lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma. Regular wellness exams are key to early detection and treatment.

Training And Exercise Needs Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Breed

• Training Needs

  • These dogs are incredibly intelligent but also independent, so training can be a bit of a challenge. They are highly trainable but can also be stubborn, especially if they get distracted by scents or something that piques their interest.
  • Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement work wonders with this breed. If they’re trained using harsh methods, they can become hesitant or unresponsive. Use treats, praise, and a calm but firm approach.

• Exercise Needs

  • Treeing Walkers are high-energy dogs that require a lot of exercise. Daily long walks, jogs, and opportunities to run off-leash in a secure area are essential for their well-being.
  • They excel at activities like running, hiking, and even agility training. They love mental stimulation, so puzzle toys or scent-based games can help burn off excess energy in addition to physical activity.

• Mental Stimulation

  • Their intelligence means that they need more than just physical exercise. They thrive in environments where their problem-solving skills are tested. If not given proper outlets for their energy, they can become bored and destructive.

FAQs

What Is The Origin Of The Treeing Walker Coonhound?

The Treeing Walker Coonhound originates from the United States, primarily developed for hunting in the 19th century. It was bred by crossing various hounds, notably the English Foxhound and the Walker Coonhound, to create a versatile hunting dog known for its treeing instinct and exceptional ability to track and tree game.

What Is The Temperament Of A Treeing Walker Coonhound?

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are known for being intelligent, energetic, and independent. They are friendly, loyal, and affectionate with their families, but can also exhibit a strong prey drive, which means they may chase small animals if not properly trained. They are typically good with children and other pets, especially when socialized early.

How Much Exercise Does A Treeing Walker Coonhound Need?

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are highly energetic and require a significant amount of exercise to stay happy and healthy. At least an hour of vigorous physical activity daily, such as running, hiking, or playing, is recommended. They also benefit from mental stimulation like scent games or problem-solving activities.

Is The Treeing Walker Coonhound A Good Family Dog?

Yes, the Treeing Walker Coonhound can make an excellent family dog, especially for active families. They are affectionate and loyal to their owners and are usually good with children. However, their hunting instincts and high energy levels mean that they need plenty of physical and mental stimulation to avoid boredom-induced behaviors.

What Are The Grooming Needs Of A Treeing Walker Coonhound?

The Treeing Walker Coonhound has a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing a few times a week will help keep the coat shiny and free from loose hair. Like all dogs, they should have their nails trimmed, ears checked, and teeth brushed regularly to maintain overall health.

Are Treeing Walker Coonhounds Good With Other Pets?

While Treeing Walker Coonhounds can get along well with other dogs, they have a strong prey drive, which means they might not be ideal with smaller animals like rabbits or cats unless properly socialized. Early socialization and consistent training are key to ensuring they can coexist peacefully with other pets.

What Health Issues Are Common In Treeing Walker Coonhounds?

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are generally healthy, but they can be prone to some health conditions like hip dysplasia, ear infections (due to their floppy ears), and cataracts. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help mitigate some of these issues.

How Long Do Treeing Walker Coonhounds Live?

The average lifespan of a Treeing Walker Coonhound is around 12 to 14 years, although with proper care and a healthy lifestyle, some can live even longer.

Do Treeing Walker Coonhounds Shed A Lot?

Treeing Walker Coonhounds shed moderately throughout the year. While their short coat doesn’t require extensive grooming, they will shed seasonal hair, particularly during shedding seasons. Regular brushing can help manage this and keep the shedding to a minimum.

Are Treeing Walker Coonhounds Easy To Train?

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train, especially when positive reinforcement methods are used. However, they can also be independent and stubborn at times, so early training and consistent leadership are essential to keep them on track.

Treeing Walker Coonhound Dog Pictures