"Versatile Hunter"
History
Red foxhounds brought to America from Scotland in the 1700s may have formed the root stock of the Redbone Coonhound. George Birdsong, a Georgia hunter, is credited with forming the breed, beginning with a pack he obtained in 1840. Other hunters refined the dogs to create a faster, hotter-nosed breed, crossing them with Irish Red Foxhounds. These early dogs were sometimes called Saddlebacks because they tended to have black saddles. The saddles were bred out and the breed became known as Redbone Coonhounds, probably not so much for the color as for a Tennessee promoter of the breed, Peter Redbone. Today's Redbone is a versatile hunter that specializes in treeing raccoon, but also excels in trailing and treeing bear, cougar, and bobcat. In 1902, the Redbone became the second coonhound recognized by the United Kennel Club. It was another century before the AKC recognized the breed, however. It remains a favorite with serious raccoon hunters who want a fast working dog with excellent treeing ability. As it moves into the ranks of AKC dogs, more people are discovering this dog's ability as a family companion as well.
Temperament
The Redbone is a laid back hound generally content to lounge around the house and yard, as long as he gets out to run and explore every day. He's active when hunting, which is still his first love, and care must be taken that he doesn't follow his nose and head off on a scent. Obedience isn't his strong point, especially when a trail calls. He's an affectionate, gentle dog, but not clingy, and he gets along with strangers, children, and other dogs. He can be good with cats as long as he's raised with them. He's not a yapper, but when he barks, it's that deep, melodious bark that hunters love to hear at night.
Appearance
He's built to run at speed over swamplands, rocky hill country, and thick woods, so he's streamlined but strong. He's slightly taller at the withers than hips, with a slightly arched loin. His face has a pleading expression, with round eyes and fine, moderately low-set ears. His coat is short and sleek, with solid red preferred.
Training
As a dog bred to think for himself on the hunt, he simply hasn't been bred to check back with people to see what they think. As a result, he's often pretty sure that he's right and you're crazy, and he can be stubborn if he's really convinced you're wrong. But if you convince him it pays off to humor you, he'll do his best to earn treats and approval. It's a good idea to introduce him to the basics of training early, while he still thinks you know what you're doing.
Grooming & Care
The Redbone's coat is wash and wear, and requires only weekly brushing. Keep nails trimmed short and ears clean and dry. Keep teeth clean, too. He needs moderate exercise every day, preferably a long walk or moderate jog, or some time off leash in a secure area. He does need the chance to sniff around and use his nose, but care must be taken that he doesn't head off on a scent trail. He enjoys swimming.
Health Concerns
The Redbone Coonhound has no major health concerns peculiar to the breed, but regular veterinary visits can help catch any problems that could develop. Breeding stock should have hips screened -- ask your breeder to see the results of this test.
Famous Redbone Coonhound
Ol' Dan and L'il Ann, the famous hounds from that old childhood favorite, "Where the Red Fern Grows," by Wilson Rawls.
Ideal Owner | |
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Activity Level | Active |
Schedule | Full-time (but no overtime) |
Personal Style | Easygoing and casual, Outdoorsy |
Training Style | Consistent, Positive |
Home | Fenced yard or access to one |
Children | Any age is fine |
Experience | Hound experience preferred |
Quick Facts | |
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Size | Large |
Grooming | Easy to care for - brush weekly |
Exercise | High - needs to walk every day, plus some running and play |
Training | Eager to please, Fast learner |
Temperament | Friendly, Sweet, Intelligent |
Challenges | Needs a job |
Height | 21 to 27 inches |
Weight | 45 to 70 pounds |
Life | 15 to 16 years |
Home Alone | Fine with lots of exercise first |
With Kids | Excellent |
With Strangers | Cautious at first but okay with them if you are |
Availability | Rare and may have a waiting list |