The origins of the bluetick coonhound are unclear although many experts and gun dog breeders think the dog resulted from the interbreeding of the French blue Gascon hound and English foxhounds present in Louisiana in precolonial times. Selective breeding of the English coonhound, French hound, curs and foxhounds resulted in the bluetick coonhound.
Known for their intelligence and energy, they are equally adaptable as gun dogs and as family pets. They are quite fearless and have been used to track animals as large as cougars.
Here are six bluetick coonhound facts.
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1. Name
The Breed loves treeing raccoons, hence the name
coonhound, PetGuide.com noted. It announces capture of its prey with a distinctive howl. It is blue color is due to black hair on a white background, which creates a blue effect. However, they can also have tan markings and some have red ticking on their feet.
2. Easily Distracted By Smells
If a bluetick coonhound finds the smell interesting, it will follow its trail and possibly ignore owner commands in the process. This can make off-leash training difficult, especially outdoors.
3. Long Life
Bluetick coonhounds live an average of 11 to 12 years,
according to Vetarena.org.
4. Grooming
Bluetick coonhounds require little in the way of grooming, and brushing occasionally is sufficient,
the Dog Breed Info Center noted. However, owners are recommended to keep the dogs' ears clean to prevent infections.
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5. State Dog
The bluetick coonhound is the state dog of Tennessee, where some claim the breed originated,
according to Vetstreet.
6. Needs Exercise
This is a breed that needs activity and it does not do well living in an apartment. Ideally, a bluetick coonhound will need access to a large yard and also require brisk daily walks. This is no real surprise as the dog was originally bred for strenuous activity that requires a lot of stamina.
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