The Canine Chronicles Directory
Redbone Coonhound
Redbone Coonhounds have shiny, short coats and come in a deep, rich red color. Some
lines may have small white markings on their chest and feet. The well-molded head
is broad and the skull is flat. The muzzle is square shaped with a medium stop.
The large, round eyes are set apart and are dark brown to hazel in color. The long
ears are low set and dangle to the nose. The nose should be black with large, open
nostril and the teeth should meet in a scissor-like bite. The erect, slightly arched
neck is long merging into strong muscular shoulders. The topline slopes from the
withers to the hips and the deep chest is broad with well sprung ribs. The well-developed
legs should be straight and muscular. The cat-like feet are round and webbed. The
medium long tail is saber-like and held upright.
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Temperament
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There are typically two types of Redbone Coonhounds. The first is used as a companion
dog. They are a gentle, affectionate breed and make excellent family pets. This
"home-raised" Redbone Coonhound also gets along well with children. The other type
of Redbone Coonhound is primarily a hunting dog and although good with people, they
are not always suited as a family dog. If they have not been raised with children,
they can be snappy. Cats have the same musky scent as bears and raccoons, so this
breed will see them as prey if not raised and socialized with them. Redbone Coonhounds
are an intelligent breed and eager to learn; however, since they were developed
to be a hunting breed, they are easily distracted while being trained. Socializing
this breed early and placing them in obedience classes will help curb their prey
drive. Intense and hard working in the field, but easygoing and gentle in the home.
Some in this breed may drool.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 22-27" ; Female Height: 21-26"
Weight: 45-70 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Although there are no known hereditary issues, as the breed becomes more popular,
some lines are developing hip dysplasia.
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Living Conditions
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This breed can be either an indoor or outdoor breed, but will not do well living
in an apartment. They need lots of activities and exercise and would do best in
a rural or suburban environment.
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Exercise
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Both types of Reds need extensive exercise.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-15 years
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Grooming
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The coat of this breed is very low maintenance. Brush every once in a while to keep
the coat gleaming. Check the ears often.
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Origin
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Redbone Coonhounds were developed in the 1800s by crossing foxhounds with bloodhounds.
They were then crossed with an Ancient Irish Hound. The result was a faster, smarter
breed with a superior nose. In 1840, George F.L. Birdsong obtained the foundation
stock that has resulted into today's lines. This breed is a powerful athlete and
can tree a raccoon, a bobcat, a bear or even a cougar in all types of weather and
over various terrains. This breed is often used in packs and makes an excellent
water dog. They are exceptionally good at scenting as they are related to the Bloodhound.
The Redbone Coonhound are recognized by the AKC, UKC and
the FCI.
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Group
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AKC Hound, UKC Scenthound
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