Bluetick Coonhounds, as their name implies, are large-sized dogs known for their mottled, dark blue coats. They also have well-muscled bodies but can still run at high speeds. Th Bluetick Coonhound has droopy ears that adds to their charm. They have deep expressive eyes that will surely make you adore them.
Bluetick Coonhounds may be large, but they are very mild-mannered dogs. They crave for affection, which makes them very devoted to family. The only problem you might have with owning one is their loud bark, which may not be suitable for those living in apartment buildings.
They are best fit in active homes that can give them plenty of outdoor exercises. And if you’re able to train them well and socialize them at an early age, these dogs make wonderful family companions.
Bluetick Coonhound Breed Statistics
| Dog Breed Group | Hound Group |
| Breed Size | Large |
| Height | 22-27 inches (male); 21-25 inches (female) |
| Weight | 55-80 pounds (male); 45-65 pounds (female) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
Bluetick Coonhound Breed Ratings
| Energy level | |
| Exercise needs | |
| Requires attention | |
| Playfulness | |
| Trainability | |
| Shedding | |
| Grooming | |
| Friendly with family | |
| Friendly with kids | |
| Friendly with strangers | |
| Friendly with other dogs | |
| Prey Drive |
Bluetick Coonhound History
Bluetick Coonhounds, a color variety of the English Coonhound, were developed in the southern part of the United States around the 18th century. These dogs descended from French Staghounds gifted by Marquis de Lafayette to George Washington.
According to records, these French Staghounds were mixed with some English Foxhound and other hounds to develop the Bluetick Coonhounds. As a result, the dogs are known to be meticulous hunters with impressive stamina. They are also capable of tracing scent that are hours or days old.
Blueticks were mainly used by frontiersmen to hunt raccoons. They were also used for hunting big game such as bears, wild boars, lynx, and cougars.
By 1905, the United Kennel Club began registering English Coonhounds, but it was only in 1946 when the Bluetick Coonhound was recognized as a separate breed. Several more years later, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2009.
Now, the dogs rank 130th as the most popular dog in the US. A lot has changed with the breed, but they remain delightful companions for hunters.
Bluetick Coonhound Temperament
Bluetick Coonhounds have a goofy personality. They are known to be devoted and become strongly attached to their family, which makes them excellent companions. You can expect him to stay with you in any activity, whether it be hunting, traveling, or just sleeping on the couch.
These dogs need regular exercise, and it wouldn’t matter where you live as long as you’ll be able to meet that requirement. However, apartment living is not recommended because they are very vocal dogs.
Blueticks get along well with children, but always keep close supervision when it comes to toddlers. They should also not be left alone with small animals like cats as this might drive him to chase them.
They are also not that friendly with strangers and will likely bark when someone suspicious comes to your home. This makes them excellent watchdogs.
Early socialization is essential, so they don’t get aggressive. It will help them get accustomed whenever something new is presented to them. It also helps in maintaining a stable temperament.
Training may not come as easy. It’s highly recommended to be firm and consistent, and try to control your laughter whenever he tries to do something crazy.
Bluetick Coonhound Care Requirements
- Nutrition: Bluetick Coonhounds don’t have special dietary requirements as long as you feed them high-quality and well-balanced meals. The only thing you need to watch for is the number of calories you feed them every day. An overweight dog is more prone to health issues than dogs in a normal weight range. Be sure to consult your vet on how much to feed your dog, depending on his age and activity level. It’s also essential to be particular about what to feed your dog. You should only buy high-quality ingredients if you’re serving him a home-cooked meal. For dog foods, opt for the premium quality ones and check the label. Make sure that it doesn’t contain fillers, additives, by-products, and, most importantly, ingredients that they’re allergic to.
- Grooming: Bluetick Coonhounds have a short, glossy coat that sheds seasonally. It requires once a week of brushing to help remove excess hair and dirt. This will also make tr daily so you won’t have any problems with hair all over the floor and furniture. Baths can be given occasionally, depending on how dirty your Bluetick Coonhound is. But ears should be cleaned regularly. Nails should be trimmed regularly as well and be kept short.
- Exercise: Bluetick Coonhounds were originally hunting dogs, which means they are used with having a lot to do. Make sure to give them regular exercise to keep them fit and healthy. But activities don’t have to be high impact. These dogs are content with having to spend the whole day with their owners, whether through play or snoozing on the couch. Exercise can include long walks on a leash or play sessions in a securely fenced yard. It’s also a great idea to have them participate in dog competitions where they can showcase their agility and tracking skills.
- Health: Bluetick Coonhounds are generally healthy dogs. However, like any other dog breeds, they are prone to getting diseases, particularly hereditary ones. Hip dysplasia, ear infections, and bloating are very common to the dogs. It’s vital to give them the right care and nutrition, so they stay healthy. It’s also important to do your research on symptoms of these diseases to monitor any behavioral changes to your dogs properly. There are screening tests available that your dog can take to detect any diseases early. We recommend meeting at least one of your dog’s parents to know if there are possible hereditary health issues your dog might get.
- Lifespan: The life expectancy of Bluetick Coonhounds is 11-12 years.
Famous Bluetick Coonhounds
- Smokey: The mascot of the University of Tennessee
- Tet: The Bluetick Coonhound companion of Stringfellow Hawke, the main character in the TV show Airwolf
- Old Blue: A Bluetick Coonhound that appeared
Fun Facts about Bluetick Coonhounds
- Bluetick Coonhounds originated from Louisiana, USA.
- These dogs were believed to have been developed from French Staghounds, English Foxhounds, and other hound breeds.
- They were developed as hunting dogs to hunt big game.
- They were recognized as a separate breed from Coonhounds in 1946.
- They are known for their “big bawl mouth,” which makes them more ideal in rural living.
- They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2009.
Check Out Other Hound Dog Breeds:
Afghan Hound, American English Coonhounds, American Foxhound, Basenjis, Basset Hound, Beagle, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bloodhound, Borzois, Cirnechi dell’Etna, Dachshund, English Foxhound, Grand Basset Griffon Vendeens, Greyhound, Harrier, Ibizan Hound, Icelandic Sheepdogs, Irish Wolfhound, Norwegian Elkhound, Otterhound, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, Pharaoh Hounds, Plotts, Portuguese Podengo, Redbone Coonhound, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Salukis, Scottish Deerhounds, Sloughis, Treeing Walker Coonhound, Whippet