The Untold Story of the American English Coonhound

The American English Coonhound is a dog of great character, purpose, and history. Despite its impressive background, many people are unfamiliar with the breed, often overlooking it in favor of more common canine companions. However, this dog’s story deserves to be told—one that spans centuries and reflects the deep bond between humans and dogs in the United States. From its origins as a hardworking hunting partner to its role as a loyal family pet, the American English Coonhound has a legacy that is intertwined with the heart of America itself. In the ever-evolving Pet World, the breed’s unique traits and hardworking nature make it a cherished companion for those who appreciate both history and loyalty in their pets.

Let’s explore the untold story of the American English Coonhound: a breed of strength, loyalty, and remarkable endurance.

The Origins of the American English Coonhound

To understand the American English Coonhound, we must first travel back to the early days of American settlement. The breed’s roots trace to the early 19th century when early settlers brought dogs with them from Europe. These dogs, primarily English Foxhounds and other hunting breeds, were bred with the local dogs to produce a more adaptable and rugged hunting partner suited to the forests, swamps, and varied terrain of the American landscape.

The breed’s specific history is somewhat clouded, as is often the case with working dogs that were bred for practical purposes rather than for pedigree. However, it is believed that the American English Coonhound’s ancestors were bred to track and hunt raccoons, a species that was abundant in the forests of North America. This made the Coonhound particularly valuable to American hunters who relied on their dogs to track and corner raccoons, which were a prime source of fur and a common prey for hunting.

The American English Coonhound was developed to be a superior hunting dog, known for its stamina, speed, and incredible sense of smell. These qualities allowed it to excel in the field, especially in raccoon hunting, a popular sport among hunters in the Appalachian and southern United States. With its long, drooping ears and expressive face, the American English Coonhound became synonymous with the hunting traditions of early America.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed relatively recently in 2010, though it had been a part of the American hunting scene for nearly two centuries before that. Despite its late recognition, the American English Coonhound has become a beloved breed in the U.S. both as a working dog and as a family companion.

The Distinctive Characteristics of the American English Coonhound

The American English Coonhound is a striking dog. It is a medium to large-sized breed with a lean, muscular build that speaks to its endurance and strength. The breed was made for work, not just for looks, and its physical traits reflect this.

Size and Build

Standing 22 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder, American English Coonhounds are built for speed and stamina. They have long, strong limbs that help them cover great distances during hunting expeditions. Their bodies are well-proportioned, with a deep chest that allows for ample lung capacity, aiding in long hunts.

Coat and Colors

The breed’s coat is short and dense, designed to protect the dog during its rugged work in the wilderness. It can come in a variety of colors, often in combinations of blue, red, and black, with tan markings. The coat is easy to care for but may require occasional brushing to maintain its sleekness. Despite its short hair, the Coonhound’s coat provides protection against the elements, keeping the dog warm in cold weather while allowing for breathability in warmer conditions.

Ears and Expression

One of the most distinctive features of the American English Coonhound is its long, drooping ears. These ears are not just for show—they help funnel scents toward the dog’s nose, which aids in tracking. The Coonhound’s expressive eyes and broad face convey intelligence and determination, two traits that are indispensable to a dog bred for hunting.

Nose and Scenting Ability

Perhaps the most important characteristic of the American English Coonhound is its incredible sense of smell. This breed’s olfactory system is second to none, allowing it to track scents over great distances. This keen nose is a product of generations of selective breeding, which focused on developing dogs with the best scenting ability to track down raccoons and other game. Even today, many American English Coonhounds are employed by hunters to track a variety of animals, from raccoons to larger game.

Personality: A Perfect Blend of Independence and Loyalty

The American English Coonhound is known for its independence and its loyalty. While these dogs are fiercely independent and capable of working alone for hours on end, they are also deeply bonded to their human families. Their hunting background means that they often thrive when given a job to do. As a result, they can be a bit aloof or stubborn if they don’t feel mentally or physically stimulated.

Independent Yet Loyal

While the American English Coonhound is often content to work independently during hunts, they are incredibly loyal to their families. Once an owner has gained their trust, they will have a friend for life. These dogs are affectionate, but not in an overly needy way. They’ll sit close by, share a quiet moment, or enjoy playing fetch, but they are also capable of being independent when left to their own devices.

Their loyalty extends to their work ethic. The breed’s instinct to track and hunt is deeply ingrained, and they often take pride in doing these tasks well. For owners who provide an outlet for their dog’s energy—such as regular runs, hiking trips, or training sessions—the American English Coonhound is a happy and engaged companion.

Training and Socialization

Training the American English Coonhound can be a challenge, especially for first-time dog owners. These dogs are highly intelligent, but they also have a mind of their own. Their independent nature can sometimes make them seem stubborn or difficult to train. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, most Coonhounds can learn a variety of commands and behaviors.

Socialization is equally important for this breed. While they may be aloof with strangers, they tend to do well in homes with other dogs and pets, especially if they are introduced to them early. However, because of their strong prey drive, they may not always be reliable around smaller animals like cats or rabbits.

The American English Coonhound in the Modern World

Though the American English Coonhound was originally bred for hunting, it has evolved into a versatile companion for modern families. While many Coonhounds still work as hunting dogs, the breed has also become a popular choice as a family pet, particularly for those who lead active lifestyles.

Exercise Needs

One thing is clear: the American English Coonhound needs plenty of exercise. These dogs are not suited to a sedentary lifestyle. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, they can become bored, which may lead to destructive behaviors such as digging or chewing.

For families with a large yard, or those who enjoy outdoor activities like running, hiking, or cycling, the Coonhound is a perfect match. They are fast, energetic, and always ready for an adventure. However, apartment living is generally not recommended for this breed, as they need space to roam and burn off excess energy.

Health Considerations

Like all breeds, the American English Coonhound is susceptible to certain health conditions. Hip dysplasia is a common concern, especially in larger dogs, so it’s important to monitor the health of their joints. Their long ears can also be prone to infections, so regular cleaning is essential. Other health issues that may arise include eye problems such as cataracts and entropion, a condition where the eyelids turn inward.

With proper care, however, the American English Coonhound is a generally healthy breed. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise can help ensure that they live a long, happy life.

Living with the American English Coonhound

Caring for Your Coonhound: Grooming and Maintenance

The American English Coonhound’s short, dense coat is relatively easy to maintain, but it still requires regular grooming to keep it in top condition. Regular brushing, about once a week, will help to remove loose hairs and maintain a shiny, healthy coat. Because of the Coonhound's active lifestyle, it’s also important to keep its nails trimmed and ears clean to prevent infections, as the breed's droopy ears can trap moisture.

Feeding and Nutrition

Like all active breeds, the American English Coonhound has high energy demands. Feeding them a balanced diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats will keep them energized for their active lifestyle. Be sure to monitor their weight, as these dogs can be prone to obesity if not exercised properly.

A Future with the American English Coonhound

The American English Coonhound’s legacy is far from over. While many people may not be familiar with the breed, those who are fortunate enough to welcome a Coonhound into their lives know that they have found a loyal, hardworking, and loving companion. As both a symbol of American history and a modern-day pet, the American English Coonhound will continue to be a beloved breed for generations to come.

The breed's contribution to the world of hunting and companionship is undeniable, and as more people discover its unique traits and qualities, the American English Coonhound is sure to gain the recognition it deserves.

Whether as a hunting partner or a cherished family member, the American English Coonhound’s story continues to unfold—one filled with passion, loyalty, and the unbreakable bond between dog and human.