Bluetick coonhounds are one of the most popular and successful breeds of hunting dogs. Although their name alludes to the dogs' affinity for pursuing raccoons, bluetick coonhounds have also been called the best breed for hunting mountain lions, one of the most dangerous game animals in North America.
Hunters who have just acquired their new gun dog from a bluetick coonhound breeder should follow these puppy tips to get started on the right foot as an owner.
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1. Be firm when training
Coonhounds are bred to follow the scent of other animals, so they get distracted easily by smells and will begin following their nose in an instant,
says Pet Guide. Firmness is necessary when training puppies. If you are too tolerant or passive about misbehavior, they will ignore you. Don't be verbally harsh as coonhounds are sensitive creatures, but make sure they know you are in charge. Use positive reinforcement and never hit your dog.
2. Start obedience training early
Bluetick coonhounds have a reputation for being stubborn. Because of this, owners need to begin obedience training and socialization when coonhounds are puppies. This process will require patience, time, and dedication. The two keys to successful training are consistency and repetition,
according to Pet Wave. Coonhounds are highly intelligent, stable dogs, but are also sensitive and high energy. Training won't happen overnight.
3. Small meals throughout the day
Bluetick coonhounds are known for eating their food quickly. If your puppies show signs of devouring meals fast, feed them a few small portions throughout the day instead of one or two large meals each day, Pet Guide recommends. Smaller meals enable coonhounds to digest their food correctly. Pet Guide also recommends feeding the dog a high-quality kibble, which should have meat as its main ingredient as opposed to grains.
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4. Give them exercise
Bluetick coonhounds are calm, undemanding dogs when they receive regular amounts of exercise,
according to Your Purebred Puppy. But when these high-energy dogs don't get a chance to run and burn off energy, they can be a "rambunctious handful." The most ideal setup for owners and breeders is a large, fenced-in yard where puppies can run and play to exhaustion. Train them early to be able to walk while on a leash, too. Two long walks a day will provide the fitness they need to remain peaceful and satisfied when inside the home.
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