The Redbone Coonhound has the same ancestors like most of the coonhounds, the British foxhounds, brought to America in the 1700s. The breeds development was influenced by the need for a dog that was faster, with a stronger sense of smell and the ability to hunt down prey much easier.
The early dogs were named Saddlebacks, because of the coatings color, red with a black saddle on the back. Just like the name suggests, the breed was created for raccoon hunting, and is still used for that purpose or for night hunting. With its beautiful red coating, the muscular, proportioned and robust build, these coonhounds are irresistible. Their body has a typical hound shape, with a wide chest, and long, straight legs. The males and females dont differ that much in size, the latter being a little smaller. The average height of the breed varies from 53 to 68 cm.
The Redbone Coonhound has a fine shaped head and has a medium stop between the nose and the brow. Their eyes are dark brown or hazel and the ears are long and dropping, hanging to the tip of the prominent, black nose when the dog is following a scent trail.
The tail is long and just like the head is held high when the dog is in “hunting mode”. The dogs paws are well padded and webbed. Also cat-like paws are characteristic, providing them great flexibility.
The dogs are affectionate and love to be around their family. Being around children is not a problem, because they are even-tempered and happy almost all the time; however, the lack of attention or being ignored might upset them a lot. They are instinctive hunters and can easily be trained into doing what they are programmed to. They are tough and can work in any weather conditions or environment with speed and endurance.
Being aware and alert all the time, this breed can also be a very good watchdog, making sure nobody trespasses their territory. A social breed, the Redbone will be easy to train, but using harsher methods will not do the trick, as they are also very sensitive.
An energetic and active dog, it will need a lot of exercise to keep it in shape especially in the first two years of life, so as to avoid destructive, bad habits caused by boredom, such as chewing on furniture or shoes.
The coonhound will adapt well to living in an apartment, as long as it is walked daily, but the perfect living place is a yard. There are no specific health problems with this breed, although hip dysplasia can sometimes occur. When used for hunting, they can, of course, sustain injuries.
Also, as an owner of a Coonhound, you must be careful to provide a balanced diet, because these dogs are prone to obesity. It is best that when choosing your Coonhound to go to a specialized breeder.
Whether you want to go hunting or just want a loving partner for you or your family, the Redbone Coonhound will surely be a great fit for you if you are an active, loving person.
