Black and Tan Coonhound: The Dedicated and Versatile Hunter
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large and powerful scent hound known for its exceptional tracking ability, deep baying voice, and calm, loyal temperament. Originally developed in the United States for hunting raccoons and large game over difficult terrain, the Black and Tan Coonhound combines endurance and determination with an affectionate and easygoing personality that makes it both a skilled hunting companion and a devoted family dog. These intelligent and scent-driven dogs thrive with active owners who can provide regular exercise, mental stimulation, and secure outdoor space, as their strong nose often leads them to follow scents independently. Black and Tan Coonhounds are typically friendly and social with people while also possessing a stubborn streak common in many hound breeds, making patient and consistent training important from an early age. With their muscular build, soulful expression, and dependable nature, the Black and Tan Coonhound is best suited for active households seeking a loyal and hardworking companion.
⭐ 3 Things You May Not Know About the Black and Tan Coonhound
- The Black and Tan Coonhound was developed in the United States specifically for tracking raccoons and large game through difficult terrain.
- The breed descends from Bloodhounds and Foxhounds, giving it exceptional scent-tracking ability and endurance.
- Black and Tan Coonhounds are famous for their deep, melodic baying voice used while trailing scent.
Overview
- AKC Height: 23–27 inches
- AKC Weight: 65–110 pounds
- Colors: Black with Tan Markings
- Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
- Group: Hound Group
🐾 Quick Facts About the Black and Tan Coonhound
- Energy Level: High — Black and Tan Coonhounds are athletic scent hounds that need regular exercise and outdoor activity.
- Grooming Needs: Low — Their short coat is easy to maintain with occasional brushing.
- Good With Kids: Yes — Black and Tan Coonhounds are generally affectionate, gentle, and friendly with families and children.
- Trainability: Moderate — Intelligent but independent scent hounds, they respond best to patient and reward-based training.
- Barking Level: Very High — Black and Tan Coonhounds are naturally vocal and may bay loudly while tracking or alerting.
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History & Origin
The Black and Tan Coonhound was developed in the United States as a powerful scent hound specialized for tracking and treeing raccoons and other game across difficult terrain. The breed descends primarily from the Bloodhound and Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound, combining the exceptional scenting ability of European hounds with the endurance and adaptability needed for hunting in the rugged forests and mountains of early America.
American hunters during the 1700s and 1800s needed dogs capable of following scent trails over long distances at night while working independently in dense wilderness. Through careful breeding, they developed the Black and Tan Coonhound as a determined and reliable hunting companion with a powerful nose, deep baying voice, and strong stamina. The breed became especially valued throughout the southern United States, where raccoon hunting was both practical and recreational.
Unlike some faster hounds bred mainly for fox hunting, the Black and Tan Coonhound was developed for slower, methodical tracking work with an emphasis on accuracy and persistence rather than speed alone. Hunters relied on these dogs to trail game through forests, swamps, and rough terrain before forcing the animal into a tree where it could be located. The breed’s long ears, loose skin, and deep chest all contributed to its effectiveness as a scent hound.
Over time, the Black and Tan Coonhound became one of the first coonhound breeds officially recognized in the United States. Modern Black and Tan Coonhounds still retain many traits shaped by generations of demanding hunting work, including strong scenting instincts, endurance, determination, and independence. Beneath the breed’s calm and affectionate personality remains a hardworking American hunting hound deeply connected to the country’s early frontier traditions.
Breed Traits & Personality
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large American scent hound known for its exceptional tracking ability, deep baying voice, long ears, and rugged hunting-dog structure. Developed from various foxhounds and bloodhound-type dogs in the United States, the breed was specifically refined for trailing raccoons and large game through difficult terrain, often at night and under challenging outdoor conditions. The Black and Tan Coonhound combines endurance, scenting power, determination, and athleticism in a strong but agile body built for long-distance tracking.
This breed has a muscular, balanced frame with a deep chest, powerful shoulders, strong legs, and solid bone structure that support stamina and steady movement across rough terrain. The Black and Tan Coonhound should appear sturdy and capable without becoming bulky or coarse. Its body is slightly longer than tall, contributing to flexibility and endurance during extended hunts.
The head is long and noble with a strong muzzle, slightly loose skin, and dark expressive eyes that create a calm and intelligent expression. Their long hanging ears are one of the breed’s defining physical characteristics and help trap scent particles near the nose while tracking. The muzzle and facial structure reflect the breed’s strong scent-hound heritage and exceptional olfactory capability.
The coat is short, dense, and weather-resistant, providing protection during outdoor hunting work while remaining relatively easy to maintain. The breed’s classic black-and-tan coloration is highly recognizable, featuring a rich black base coat with clearly defined tan markings over the eyes, muzzle, chest, legs, and lower body.
The Black and Tan Coonhound’s tail is carried proudly and helps balance the dog during movement across uneven terrain. The breed moves with long, smooth, and efficient strides that reflect endurance and tracking functionality rather than flashy speed.
Overall, the Black and Tan Coonhound projects strength, determination, scenting ability, endurance, and classic American hunting-dog functionality wrapped in a noble and highly recognizable appearance.
For a broader comparison of how this breed’s size compares to others, see our Dog Size & Weight Guide.
Exercise & Training Needs
The Black and Tan Coonhound is known for being affectionate, easygoing, intelligent, and highly scent-driven. Although developed as a serious hunting dog, the breed is often calm, friendly, and emotionally connected with its family inside the home.
With family members, the breed is usually loyal, gentle, and affectionate. Many Black and Tan Coonhounds form strong bonds with their people and enjoy companionship and relaxed household interaction. Despite their large size and rugged hunting background, they are often sweet-natured and patient family dogs.
The breed is generally friendly and sociable with people when properly socialized. Most individuals are not naturally aggressive or overly suspicious, although they may initially observe unfamiliar people carefully before relaxing.
Like many scent hounds, the Black and Tan Coonhound possesses an independent personality and an extremely powerful scent drive. Once focused on an interesting smell, the breed can become highly determined and difficult to distract. Their nose strongly influences both behavior and training.
The breed is also known for its deep, distinctive baying voice. Black and Tan Coonhounds were bred to vocalize while tracking game so hunters could follow their location during nighttime hunts. Many individuals still use their characteristic bay or howl when excited, tracking scents, or communicating.
Although generally calm indoors when properly exercised, Black and Tan Coonhounds can become stubborn or selective about obedience, especially if distracted by scents or environmental stimulation. Their independent thinking reflects generations of hunting work where dogs often needed to make decisions without constant human direction.
Because of their pack-hunting background, the breed usually gets along relatively well with other dogs and often enjoys companionship and social interaction. Proper socialization remains important, particularly around smaller pets because prey drive may still be present.
In the right home, the Black and Tan Coonhound becomes an affectionate, entertaining, and deeply loyal companion with a wonderful combination of scent-hound determination and gentle family temperament.
For a broader overview of personality differences between breed groups, visit our Dog Breed Temperament Guide.
Exercise & Training Needs
The Black and Tan Coonhound is an active and endurance-oriented breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and emotionally balanced. Although often relaxed indoors after activity, the breed was developed for physically demanding nighttime tracking work and possesses substantial stamina and persistence.
Daily walks, outdoor exploration, scent games, and active play sessions are important for maintaining both physical and emotional well-being. Many Black and Tan Coonhounds especially enjoy activities that engage their remarkable sense of smell, including tracking exercises, scent work, and long exploratory walks.
Mental stimulation is extremely important for this scent-driven breed. Puzzle toys, scent challenges, tracking games, and interactive routines help prevent boredom and provide healthy outlets for the breed’s natural instincts.
Training a Black and Tan Coonhound requires patience, consistency, and realistic expectations. While intelligent, the breed is highly independent and often more motivated by scent than immediate obedience. Positive reinforcement methods using food rewards, praise, and encouragement usually produce the best results.
Harsh correction or repetitive drilling may create stubbornness or reduced cooperation. Short, engaging training sessions tend to maintain better focus and enthusiasm.
Recall training can be especially challenging because the breed instinctively follows scent trails once engaged. Secure fencing and proper leash management are extremely important because many individuals will ignore commands when tracking an interesting smell.
Early socialization helps encourage confidence and stable behavior around different people, environments, sounds, and animals. Puppies should receive controlled positive exposure to a wide variety of experiences during development.
Because of their size, energy level, and scent-driven instincts, Black and Tan Coonhounds generally thrive best with owners who understand hound behavior and can provide both physical activity and mental enrichment consistently.
For owners who appreciate scent hounds and enjoy active outdoor companionship, the Black and Tan Coonhound can become a highly rewarding and loyal partner.
Learn more on our Dog Training Page.
Grooming Requirements
The Black and Tan Coonhound’s short dense coat is relatively low-maintenance and practical for active outdoor lifestyles. The breed’s coat was developed to provide protection during hunting work while remaining easy to care for and weather-resistant.
Weekly brushing is generally sufficient to remove loose hair, distribute natural oils, and maintain healthy skin and coat condition. Rubber grooming mitts, soft bristle brushes, and hound gloves work especially well for maintaining the breed’s smooth coat.
Although grooming requirements are fairly simple, the breed does shed moderately throughout the year. Regular brushing helps reduce loose hair buildup and supports healthy skin circulation.
The breed’s long hanging ears require especially important routine care. Reduced airflow inside the ears may trap moisture, wax, or debris and increase the risk of ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and inspection are essential for maintaining ear health, particularly for active outdoor dogs.
Bathing is generally needed only occasionally unless the dog becomes especially dirty during outdoor activity or tracking work. Most Black and Tan Coonhounds naturally maintain a fairly clean coat with routine maintenance.
Routine grooming should also include nail trimming, dental care, and inspection of the skin and paw pads for cuts, burrs, parasites, or irritation after outdoor exercise.
Because Black and Tan Coonhounds are highly active scent hounds, owners should also monitor body condition carefully and maintain healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise.
With consistent grooming and ear care, the Black and Tan Coonhound maintains its sleek hunting-dog appearance, healthy skin condition, and rugged outdoor functionality while remaining comfortable and well-suited for active family life.
Learn more on our Dog Grooming Page.
Health Overview & Testing
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a powerful, determined, and highly scent-driven hunting breed known for its exceptional tracking ability, deep voice, and calm, affectionate temperament at home. Originally developed in the United States for trailing raccoons and large game across rough terrain and difficult conditions, the Black and Tan Coonhound is generally considered a hardy and durable working breed, but like many large active hounds, it can still be prone to certain inherited and structural health concerns. Understanding common Black and Tan Coonhound health problems and recommended breeder health testing can help puppy buyers make more informed decisions when selecting a healthy puppy. Because this breed combines athletic endurance, a deep chest, long ears, and a large body structure, maintaining healthy joints, ear health, cardiovascular fitness, and proper body condition is especially important throughout the dog’s life.
Health issues sometimes seen in Black and Tan Coonhounds may include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), ear infections, hypothyroidism, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and obesity-related joint stress. Some individuals may also develop orthopedic strain or arthritis later in life due to years of physical activity and large-breed wear on the joints. Because the breed has long hanging ears and frequently works outdoors, chronic ear irritation and infections can become recurring concerns if preventive care is neglected. Like many deep-chested breeds, the Black and Tan Coonhound may also be vulnerable to gastric torsion, a potentially life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary treatment. While not every Black and Tan Coonhound will develop these conditions, understanding the breed’s health tendencies allows owners to make better long-term decisions regarding breeding, exercise, nutrition, grooming, and preventive veterinary care.
Health Testing & Responsible Breeding
Responsible Black and Tan Coonhound breeders should perform appropriate health screenings before breeding in order to reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions being passed to future generations. Many puppy buyers are encouraged to ask about health testing, but they are often unsure which evaluations are most important for this breed. In the Black and Tan Coonhound, careful attention to orthopedic, eye, thyroid, and overall structural health is especially valuable.
Buyers should ask whether the sire and dam have completed OFA hip and elbow evaluations and ophthalmologist-performed eye examinations. Responsible breeders may also discuss thyroid disease, orthopedic longevity, ear health, and overall hunting soundness within their bloodlines. Some breeders may additionally utilize genetic testing for inherited eye conditions when appropriate depending on pedigree history.
At this time, Black and Tan Coonhound breeder health testing relies primarily on veterinary evaluations, orthopedic screening, eye certification, thyroid monitoring, and long-term pedigree knowledge rather than a large number of breed-specific DNA panels alone. However, responsible breeders should still be willing to openly discuss inherited health concerns within their breeding program and explain the purpose of any testing they perform. Ethical breeders understand that preserving the Black and Tan Coonhound involves much more than maintaining hunting instinct or appearance — it also includes protecting healthy movement, endurance, stable temperament, and long-term wellness.
Before Black and Tan Coonhound puppies are placed into new homes, they should receive a complete veterinary wellness examination that evaluates the heart, eyes, ears, joints, bite alignment, parasite status, overall structure, and general physical development. Because large active hound breeds place significant stress on developing bones and joints during growth, proper nutrition and controlled exercise during puppyhood are especially important. Puppies should also leave with age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming records, feeding guidance, and recommendations for safe exercise, training, and socialization during development.
A responsible Black and Tan Coonhound breeder should willingly provide documentation of completed health clearances and openly discuss inherited health concerns affecting the breed. Puppy buyers should be cautious of breeders who avoid health discussions, refuse to provide testing information, or claim their dogs are completely free of health problems. Ethical breeding focuses on reducing inherited risk through careful selection, health screening, pedigree knowledge, and lifelong breeder support rather than making unrealistic promises.
Preventive Care & Long-Term Wellness
Maintaining healthy body condition and regular exercise is especially important for the Black and Tan Coonhound because this breed is naturally athletic, energetic, and built for endurance. Without sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation, some individuals may become restless, vocal, stubborn, or prone to weight gain. Regular exercise helps support cardiovascular fitness, muscle tone, joint stability, and emotional well-being throughout life.
Routine ear care is especially important because the breed’s long hanging ears can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria more easily than erect ears. Regular ear cleaning and monitoring may help reduce the risk of chronic infections or irritation, particularly in dogs that spend time outdoors or in damp environments.
Maintaining healthy weight is also critical because excess weight places additional strain on the hips, elbows, knees, spine, and cardiovascular system. Although naturally active, some Black and Tan Coonhounds living primarily as companion dogs may gain weight if exercise and calorie intake are not carefully balanced.
Because the Black and Tan Coonhound is a deep-chested breed, owners should also learn the warning signs of bloat and gastric torsion, including abdominal swelling, pacing, drooling, unsuccessful vomiting attempts, and sudden distress. Immediate emergency veterinary treatment is critical if these symptoms occur.
Routine veterinary examinations throughout adulthood and senior years remain important for monitoring joint stability, eye condition, thyroid function, ear health, mobility, and overall wellness. Early detection of developing health concerns often allows for more successful long-term management and improved quality of life.
Lifespan & Senior Black and Tan Coonhound Care
The Black and Tan Coonhound often lives approximately 10 to 12 years when responsibly bred and properly cared for. Senior Black and Tan Coonhounds may gradually develop arthritis, reduced stamina, hearing decline, vision changes, muscle loss, or decreased mobility as they age. Some older dogs may also become more prone to weight gain or stiffness related to orthopedic wear accumulated over years of activity.
As Black and Tan Coonhounds enter their senior years, many owners focus on maintaining moderate low-impact exercise, healthy weight management, joint support, supportive bedding, regular ear care, and routine wellness monitoring. Because the breed often remains emotionally connected and socially engaged throughout life, continued companionship and gentle interaction remain important even during old age.
With attentive care, preventive veterinary support, responsible breeding, and a healthy lifestyle, many Black and Tan Coonhounds continue to thrive as loyal, affectionate, and highly capable companions well into their senior years.
Is This Breed Right for You?
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a loyal, determined, and highly scent-driven hunting breed known for its endurance, calm household temperament, and exceptional tracking ability. Originally developed for trailing game over long distances, the Black and Tan Coonhound thrives when given regular exercise, companionship, and opportunities to use its natural instincts.
While affectionate and easygoing with family members, the Black and Tan Coonhound is not the ideal fit for every household. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:
✔ Ideal for:
- Active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and long walks
- People interested in scent work, tracking, or hunting breeds
- Families seeking a loyal and affectionate large-breed companion
- Homes with secure fenced areas for safe exercise
- Owners able to provide regular exercise and companionship
❌ Not Ideal for:
- People wanting a quiet breed with minimal vocalization
- Homes unable to provide regular physical activity
- Owners unprepared for strong scent-driven instincts
- People seeking a highly obedient off-leash companion
- Homes where the dog will be left alone for extended periods
Finding a Responsible Breeder or Rescue
If you’re interested in bringing a dog of this breed into your home, consider adopting from a rescue organization or finding a reputable breeder.
Find a Reliable Rescue:
Read our page about how to adopt from a reliable dog rescue.
Find reliable rescues through our Dog Rescue Directory.
Find a Responsible Breeder:
Read our information page about buying a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder.
Find responsible breeders through our Dog Breeders Directory.
Puppy Considerations
Black and Tan Coonhound puppies are curious, energetic, and highly scent-oriented from an early age. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are important to help puppies develop confidence, good manners, and emotional stability.
Because these puppies mature into strong and determined scent hounds, consistent training and early leash manners are especially important. Their natural tracking instincts can become very strong as they mature.
Puppies benefit from:
- Early socialization with people, dogs, sounds, and new environments
- Positive reinforcement training and consistent structure
- Secure outdoor exercise and supervised exploration
- Scent games, mentally stimulating activities, and interactive play
- Carefully managed exercise appropriate for large-breed development
Because Black and Tan Coonhound puppies grow into active and powerful adults, early training and controlled exercise are important for supporting long-term orthopedic health and manageable behavior.
Living With a Black and Tan Coonhound
Living with a Black and Tan Coonhound is often rewarding for owners who appreciate loyal, affectionate, and scent-driven dogs. These dogs generally form strong bonds with their families and often enjoy participating in outdoor activities and adventures.
The Black and Tan Coonhound requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and emotionally balanced. Many enjoy hiking, tracking games, scent work, long walks, and opportunities to safely explore outdoor environments.
This breed generally does best in homes where it receives companionship, structure, and opportunities to use its natural scenting instincts. Without enough engagement or exercise, boredom may lead to excessive barking, stubborn behavior, or destructive habits.
Although affectionate and gentle with family members, Black and Tan Coonhounds may naturally follow scents without hesitation. Secure fencing and leash safety are important because scent hounds can become highly focused once they pick up an interesting trail.
Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet and maintaining a healthy weight are important for supporting joint health, muscle condition, stamina, and long-term wellness. Routine veterinary care, training, exercise, ear care, and companionship all contribute to helping the breed thrive.
Final Thoughts…
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a loyal, determined, and highly capable scent hound that thrives with owners who appreciate the instincts and personality of traditional hunting breeds. Their endurance, affectionate nature, and exceptional scenting ability make them remarkable companions in the right homes.
With proper exercise, training, socialization, preventive care, and companionship, the Black and Tan Coonhound can become a deeply devoted and highly rewarding lifelong companion.
Are you considering adding a Black and Tan Coonhound to your family?
🐶 Black and Tan Coonhound FAQs
How long do Black and Tan Coonhounds live?
Black and Tan Coonhounds typically have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. With proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, and sufficient exercise, many live healthy lives. Because they are an active scent hound, maintaining a healthy weight and joint health is especially important.
What is the Black and Tan Coonhound temperament like?
Black and Tan Coonhounds are known for being friendly, easygoing, and independent. They are social dogs that usually get along well with people and other dogs. As scent hounds, they are curious and may follow their noses if given the opportunity.
Are Black and Tan Coonhounds good family dogs?
Yes, Black and Tan Coonhounds can make good family dogs in active households. They are typically patient and tolerant with children and enjoy being part of family life. Because of their size and energy level, they benefit from daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Do Black and Tan Coonhounds shed a lot?
Black and Tan Coonhounds are moderate shedders. Their short, dense coat is easy to maintain and usually only requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy.
Are Black and Tan Coonhounds easy to train?
Black and Tan Coonhounds are intelligent but can be independent and easily distracted, especially by scents. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Early training and socialization help manage their strong tracking instincts.
Similar Breeds You Might Like
If you’re interested in the Black and Tan Coonhound, you may also enjoy learning about these similar scent hound breeds:
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Bloodhound – A legendary scent hound known for tracking ability and a gentle temperament.
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American Foxhound – An athletic, endurance-focused hound with strong hunting instincts.
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English Foxhound – A classic pack hound known for stamina, sociability, and strong scenting instincts.
🐾 Lisa’s Picks for Black and Tan Coonhounds
As someone who has worked with dogs for over 50 years—including more than 20 years helping with housebreaking and everyday care—I’m often asked for product recommendations. I’ve found that a few simple items can make a big difference in a dog’s comfort and daily routine.
If you have a Black and Tan Coonhound or are planning to bring one into your home, these products and tips can help support your journey together.
🛏️ 1. Dog Beds
👉 My Tip: Waterproof Bed Protection (My Personal Favorite Trick)
One thing I personally do is use twin-size waterproof mattress covers over larger dog beds. They’re easy to wash, protect the bed beneath, and save money long-term—especially helpful for puppies, seniors, or heavy shedders. You can find different colors and patterns that fit your decor.
For tiny dog beds, you can use waterproof pillow covers that fit over the beds to protect them and save money long-term.
I use the same idea around the house, too. Washable, waterproof couch covers are a simple way to protect furniture from dirt, shedding, and accidents—especially helpful with puppies, seniors, or dogs that love the couch.
* Orthopedic Foam Dog Beds:
A high-quality orthopedic bed is one of the best investments you can make for your dog. I recommend these for every breed, once they are out of the chewing stage, especially as they age. They provide joint support, improve comfort, and help dogs truly rest.
* Tough Dog Beds for Dogs That Chew:
If your dog tends to chew or destroy their bedding, a standard plush bed may not last long. In these cases, I recommend tough, chew-resistant dog beds made with reinforced materials.
These are designed to hold up better against digging, scratching, and chewing, and can save you from constantly replacing beds. While no bed is completely indestructible, choosing a more durable option can make a big difference.
* Puppies need Simple Washable Bedding:
For young puppies that are still learning house training, I often suggest starting with simple, washable blankets instead of an expensive dog bed.
Thick towels, fleece throws, or washable pads work very well during this stage. They’re easy to clean, quick to replace, and help protect your main dog beds until your puppy is more reliable. Once house training is more consistent, you can transition to a more permanent, supportive bed.
✂️ 2. Proper Grooming Tools for the Black and Tan Coonhound Coat
Black and Tan Coonhounds have a short, dense coat that is relatively easy to maintain, but regular grooming helps keep it healthy and looking its best.
A soft brush or rubber grooming brush works well to remove loose hair and keep the coat clean, while a grooming mitt can help distribute natural oils and maintain a healthy shine. A metal comb can be used lightly for detail work if needed.
Black and Tan Coonhounds are moderate shedders, and regular brushing helps control loose hair and keep the skin and coat in good condition. It’s also important to check their long ears regularly, as they can trap moisture and debris.
Regular brushing:
- Helps prevent mats
- Reduces shedding
- Keeps the coat healthy
🦴 3. Treats (Great for All Dogs)
- Jerky Treats for Dogs: Almost all dogs love soft, easy-to-break NATURAL jerky treats. They’re perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding. Soft jerky treats provide protein and are easy to chew.
- Tiny Treats for Small Dogs
For small dogs, I recommend using very tiny, NATURAL training treats that are soft and easy to chew. This lets you reward often without overfeeding.
- Stronger Chew Treats for Larger Dogs
Dogs that enjoy a more robust chewing experience will benefit from stronger chew treats. Some larger dogs may still go through them quickly, while others will take more time—so it often depends on the individual dog.
👉 My Tip: Check Ingredient Labels
I always recommend checking the ingredient label when choosing treats at the store. Dogs don’t need added sugar or artificial ingredients, and some treats can upset their stomach or cause diarrhea. Look for all-natural ingredient labels, and single ingredient or few ingredient labels are preferred.
It’s important to note that even among the same breed, some dogs enjoy chewing more than others, and many have preferences for certain types of chews. If you notice bleeding gums during chewing, it’s a good idea to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out any dental issues.
🧠 4. Enrichment Toys for Mental Stimulation
Black and Tan Coonhounds are inquisitive, so giving them something to do is important.
An enrichment toy can help:
- Prevent boredom
- Reduce unwanted behaviors
- Keep their mind engaged
When choosing an enrichment toy, think about your dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs love puzzle toys and mental challenges, while others are happier with something they can chew or carry around.
🐕 5. Safe, Comfortable Harness, Collar & Leash
From my experience, choosing the right walking gear can make a big difference in both safety and control. Some harnesses and collars are designed to help prevent dogs from slipping out, which is especially important for strong or easily startled dogs, and those are the types I personally recommend for safety.
Harness: A quality, comfortable properly fitted harness can make walks more comfortable and easier to manage—especially for dogs that tend to pull or get excited outdoors. If you have a dog that tries to wiggle out of their harness, search for an “escape proof” harness that has an extra strap towards the back.
Collar: I use and prefer safety martingale collars, as they can help prevent dogs from backing out of their collar while still being more gentle than traditional collars when used correctly.
Leash: Choose a lightweight leash for small dogs and a sturdier, heavier leash for larger dogs to ensure good control. Nylon leashes are strong and long-lasting. Some leashes also include a comfortable padded handle.
👉 My Tip: Avoid Retractable Leashes
I don’t recommend retractable leashes, as they can break and tangle easily and create safety issues and tripping hazards.
💡 Lisa’s Tip:
You don’t need a lot of products to care for a dog well… just the right ones. Focus on comfort, consistency, and routine, and you’ll make life easier for both you and your dog.
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