American English Coonhound Breed Guide: Temperament and Care

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The American English Coonhound is a lean, fast scent hound descended from English Foxhounds brought to the American colonies. It is known for its stamina, its voice and its friendly, outgoing nature, and it needs a good deal of exercise.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in the southern United States, where hunters selected Foxhound-type dogs for trailing raccoons at night. American English Coonhounds are medium-large and athletic, with a long head, drop ears, a short, hard coat in colors such as red and white, tricolor or blue ticked and a long tail.

Temperament

They are friendly, outgoing and energetic. They are usually good with children and other dogs. They are independent and persistent. They can be vocal. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, with running, hiking and sniffing. Secure fencing is essential, since they follow scents and can climb or dig. Mental work matters.

Training

They are intelligent but determined. Use positive methods, patience and food rewards. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Early socialization helps. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing. Clean the ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Coonhound paralysis, a temporary nerve condition sometimes linked to raccoon contact
• Hereditary conditions

Living with an American English Coonhound

They suit active families, hunters and outdoor lovers with a secure yard. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to apartments or long hours alone.

A typical day

A coonhound wants a long morning outing, a rest, play and an evening sniffing walk. Many are calm indoors once exercised.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and curious. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, vet care and secure fencing. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate moderate weather well, but need shade and water in heat and a coat in the cold. They travel well with a sturdy crate or harness.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting the dog off lead, underexercising, leaving the dog alone and neglecting the ears.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, hereditary conditions and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live.

Foxhound ancestry

The breed's English Foxhound roots show in its speed and stamina. Many American English Coonhounds can run for hours, which is why daily exercise and secure fencing matter for pet dogs.

Coonhound paralysis

Some coonhounds develop a temporary nerve condition called coonhound paralysis, which causes weakness that can progress. It has been linked to raccoon exposure, though the cause is not always clear. A vet should see any dog with sudden weakness.

Daily care checklist

• A long outing with room to run in a secure area.
• Scent games or tracking.
• Ear checks and brushing.
• Measured meals.
• Company and a soft bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

An American English Coonhound suits active owners who want a fast, friendly scent hound and can provide exercise and secure fencing. It may not suit apartments or quiet homes. For a related hound, see the American Foxhound.

The takeaway

American English Coonhounds are lean, fast and friendly, and they need exercise, secure fencing and patience.