The five breeds of coonhounds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) all share a common history. Each was bred to be a hunter's partner. They all have stamina, ability to follow a scent and intelligence to track and follow prey while running ahead and out of sight of their humans. Keep in mind these characteristics when considering a coonhound as a family pet.
Temperament
Coonhounds are high energy and best for the people who are outdoorsy, active and include their dog in most every activity. The coonhounds' hunting instincts come shining through as pets. Coonhounds need to run, and they bark loudly--so you know where to find them when they have treed their prey. They are often described as intelligent, affectionate and good with children.
The Michigan Coonhound Rescue warns that "bored hounds will find a way to occupy themselves. You will probably not enjoy the results, which can range from climbing fences and getting into the neighbor's garbage, to the complete destruction of your sofa or your landscaping."
Black and Tan Coonhound
Bred from the Talbot hound known in England and the bloodhound, the Black and Tan was bred in the United States to hunt raccoons. They stand 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and by AKC breed standards should have an "even temperament" and be "outgoing and friendly."
Redbone Coonhound
The Redbone is descended from the Scottish red foxhounds and red Irish foxhounds. After more than 100 years of refining, the Redbone first joined the ranks of AKC recognition in 2009. These dogs range from 21 to 27 inches in height at the shoulder. They do well as family dogs, but their hunting instincts will kick in, and they are likely to chase and harass family cats.
Treeing Walker Coonhound
The only coonhound whose name does not describe their coat color is the Treeing Walker. These are white dogs with black and tan markings mostly on their head and back. The AKC gives the Treeing Walker "'the people's choice' among all coonhound breeds." Similar in size to the Redbone with a height range of 20 to 27 inches, these coonhounds like to work and compete in training events.
Bluetick Coonhound
The term bluetick refers to this coonhound's blue-gray spotted pattern. Their breeding and development focused more on creating a hunter that took its time and did not give up in pursuit. As a pet, Blueticks may be slightly less active when compared to other coonhounds, but owners may find they are purposeful and determined dogs. Their size ranges from 21 to 27 inches in height.
American English Coonhound
Similar in size to other coonhounds, reaching heights between 23 and 26 inches, the American English coonhound was bred with a sleek body for fast pursuit of its prey. The AKC comments on their temperament as being "pleasant, alert, confident and sociable with humans and dogs."
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