About Redbone Coonhound Dogs

Redbone Coonhounds comprise a breed of dog that originated in the southeast of the U.S.A. in the 18th century. They were bred from Foxhounds and Bloodhounds brought to the area by immigrants, and were bred to hunt raccoons. To this day, they function most often as hunting dogs. Redbone Coonhounds are most common in their country of origin, and are very rare outside of the Americas.

Most Redbone Coonhounds should measure 21 to 26 inches in height. They generally weigh 45 to 70 pounds, although weight varies based on the size and body composition of the dog. Redbone Coonhounds are sexually dimorphic in that females are slightly smaller than their male counterparts. Redbone Coonhounds have thin but balanced and muscular frames. They have long, thin tails; long, lean legs; deep and wide chests; and long drop ears.

Redbone Coonhounds are always red in colour. While they tend to be solid, they may have white markings on their chests or feet or in between their legs. They may also have some black on their faces and muzzles. Their coats are smooth, short, and lie closely to their bodies, but are somewhat coarse to the touch. Redbone Coonhounds do not shed much.

Redbone Coonhounds are affectionate, loving, companionable, and thrive on the attention of their humans. They depend greatly on humans not only for affection and love but for a leader who demonstrates consistent and confident but gentle leadership. They may be boisterous, but this can generally be prevented, as can most behavioral problems in any breed, through proper socialization.

Redbone Coonhounds are fairly versatile with respect to which living conditions suit them; they may be outdoor or indoor dogs, are great with children and therefore families, and can fare well in an apartment if extra care is taken to exercise them sufficiently. They will, however, fare best if they have at least a large lawn at their disposal. Prospective Redbone Coonhound owners must be sure that they will be able to dedicate ample time and attention to their dog.

Redbone Coonhounds have a high exercise requirement, and must be taken on a walk, jog, or run daily. They may enjoy playing while off their leashes, but it is advisable that they are kept in a well-enclosed space while doing so, especially if they are unsupervised; due to their hunting instincts, they may be inclined to run off hunting local fauna. Redbone Coonhounds have low grooming requirements, and will fare well simply being brushed occasionally.

Redbone Coonhounds are generally healthy dogs, but, like most larger breeds, can be prone to hip dysplasia. On average, they live for 11 to 12 years.