The American Black and Tan Coonhound is thought to have descended from the Talbot Hound and the Bloodhound. In America, they evolved from the American Foxhound and the Virginia Foxhound of colonial days. This was the first breed recognized as an independent breed from the Foxhounds, and the first coonhound.
Initially, they were used to hunt raccoons, to trace them and dig in their burrows. Later, they were used to hunt other animals, like deer, rabbits, or opossums, even on the most difficult of terrains.
Its aspect is similar to that of a Doberman or a Rottweiler, but it can be distinguished from them by its long tail, long floppy ears, and long nose. The head has fine features and the general aspect is of an intelligent dog, with chestnut eyes and a prominent chest.
The American Black and Tan Coonhound is an energetic breed, a passionate and very dedicated worker. The owners should be very attentive with the dogs' daily schedule, in order to offer them many occasions to spend their energy. If not, they can turn into grumpy and nervous dogs.
Their predisposition to play makes them suitable for families who have older kids, but the families with young children should educate their dog so that it understands that the children are more important in the order of the pack. Lack of leadership can create problems in the dogs' minds, and make them feel insecure.
They are curious, and their inherited hunting predisposition can switch them into hunt-mode when they detect a particular scent, so it is advisable not to let the dog out of its leash in public places. They are persistent and ambitious scent hunters and will follow the trace, no matter the terrain or weather conditions.
The American Black and Tan Coonhound is a tall breed with almost 58-68 inches in height and a 45-64 kg medium weight. Its short, thick coat needs to be brushed occasionally. The litter size is around 7-8 puppies and their average life expectancy is 10-12 years.
The illnesses they are predisposed to are hip dysplasia, ear cancer, and other ear and eye problems. Besides that, they are strong and usually healthy dogs, who easily gain weight, and that is why it is not advisable to feed them excessively. Daily workouts (including long daily walks) are necessary in order to consume their energy and to maintain their weight.
The American Black and Tan Coonhound is not recommended for apartment living because of their strong, independent behavior. They are dogs that can run for miles without breaking a sweat, and keeping them indoors will make them become obtrusive and sedentary.
Being a hunting dog, they can easily work together with other hounds; moreover, bad reactions to other human beings are not common. They are not company dogs, though, and that is why it is not advisable to have them in the proximity of young children.
For experimented breeders and hunters, the American Black and Tan Coonhound is a loyal, intelligent, and energetic friend, always willing to help when needed.
