The Bold and Beautiful Bluetick Coonhound: A Comprehensive Breed Guide

With their striking coat and powerful build, Bluetick Coonhounds are sure to turn heads. But this breed offers so much more than just good looks. Blueticks are skilled hunting dogs with a nose for adventure, as well as loyal and loving companions. Whether you‘re already a proud Bluetick owner or considering adding one of these special dogs to your life, keep reading for an in-depth look at this fascinating breed.

Breed History and Overview

The Bluetick Coonhound was developed in the southern United States, with roots tracing back to the colonial era. Settlers in the region wanted to create the ultimate raccoon hunting dog by crossing various hound breeds, including the English Foxhound, French Staghound, and Grand Bleu de Gascogne. The name "Bluetick" comes from the unique pattern of black ticking on the dog‘s white coat, which almost looks blue from a distance.

Breeders aimed to produce a tireless and tenacious hunter with an incredible sense of smell to track raccoons and other small game. The dogs needed to be bold enough to corner their quarry and hold it at bay by baying loudly, yet gentle enough to get along with humans and other dogs. After generations of selective breeding, the modern Bluetick Coonhound emerged as a dog perfectly suited for the job.

While primarily bred as a hunting and tracking dog, the Bluetick Coonhound started gaining recognition as a loyal companion in the early 20th century. The United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1946, with the American Kennel Club following suit in 2009. Today, these versatile dogs excel in the field and the show ring, and have captured the hearts of families across the country.

Physical Characteristics

Bluetick Coonhounds are muscular, agile, and athletic dogs built for endurance. Males typically stand 22 to 27 inches tall and weigh 55 to 80 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 21 to 25 inches and 45 to 65 pounds.

The breed‘s most distinctive feature is the unique coat pattern, which consists of a white base color with black-ticked spots, sometimes with tan markings. The ticking can be various shades of blue-gray, giving the coat an overall navy blue appearance. Blueticks also have the long, droopy ears and soulful hound dog expression characteristic of the coonhound group.

Some other key physical traits of the Bluetick Coonhound:

• Broad, domed head with square muzzle
• Dark brown or hazel eyes
• Thin, low-set ears that extend past the nose when pulled forward
• Muscular neck of medium length
• Deep chest with well-sprung ribs
• Straight, strong back
• Powerful hindquarters and thick, tapering tail
• Cat-like, compact feet with thick pads and arched toes

While Blueticks are not the flashiest or most elegant dogs, their sturdy and purposeful build makes them well-equipped for long days out in the field. And of course, that stunning coat is sure to attract admiring looks and comments from passersby.

Temperament and Personality

As much as Bluetick Coonhounds love having a job to do, they are equally content being a cherished family companion. These dogs form strong bonds with their humans and crave being part of all the action. Expect your Bluetick to follow you from room to room and lean against you for some affection whenever possible.

Blueticks have a playful and friendly demeanor, and get along well with children and other dogs. They can be a bit boisterous and clumsy though, so supervision is a good idea around young kids and small pets. While not aggressive, Blueticks may be aloof with strangers at first and take their watchdog duties seriously.

As with all scent hounds, Blueticks are driven by their incredible noses. Once they pick up an interesting scent, they will be laser-focused on following the trail, often ignoring commands to come back. A securely fenced yard is a must to keep these curious wanderers from taking off after a rabbit or neighborhood cat.

The breed‘s baying bark is another trait to be aware of. Blueticks have a melodious howl that sounds almost like yodeling, which they use to alert hunters when they‘ve treed their quarry. This baying instinct is deeply ingrained, so Blueticks often vocalize to express themselves. While some find the houndy sounds endearing, Blueticks may not be the best fit for apartment life or noise-sensitive neighbors.

Ideal Living Situations

Bluetick Coonhounds are adaptable dogs, but they are happiest in homes with plenty of space to roam. A large, securely fenced yard is ideal, as it gives them room to sniff and explore to their heart‘s content. Blueticks can adapt to apartment living if they get long daily walks and outings, but their barking and high exercise needs can make them a challenging fit.

This breed does best with an active family or owner who can keep up with their excessive energy level. Blueticks require at least an hour of vigorous exercise per day, preferably more. In addition to walks, they love joining their humans for hikes, runs, and swims. Mental stimulation is also key to preventing boredom and destructive behaviors. Puzzle toys, scent work games, and time to sniff on walks are all great ways to engage the Bluetick‘s keen mind.

Access to the great outdoors is a huge plus for this nature-loving breed. Blueticks thrive in rural or suburban settings where they can put their powerful nose to work. Hunting and tracking trials are the ultimate test of a Bluetick‘s field skills, but even casual hikes in the woods provide an excellent outlet for their instincts. Of course, always keep your Bluetick on a leash or GPS collar during outings, as their desire to follow a scent may overpower any recall training.

Training and Socialization

Bluetick Coonhounds are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be stubborn and easily distracted. Positive reinforcement training with plenty of treats and praise is the best way to motivate them. Keep training sessions short and fun to hold their attention. Puppy kindergarten and obedience classes are a great way to start your Bluetick off on the right paw.

Socialization is also crucial for this breed. Expose your Bluetick to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age to help them grow into a well-adjusted adult. Regular outings and playdates with other dogs can help channel their boundless energy and boost their confidence.

One of the most important things to work on with your Bluetick is a reliable recall. Teaching them to come when called, even with distractions, can be a lifesaver given their propensity to wander. Long line training, where the dog wears a leash or rope that drags behind them, allows you to reel them in if they start to stray too far. Lots of praise and high-value treats can help reinforce the idea that coming back to you is always worth it.

Grooming and Health

Bluetick Coonhounds have a short, dense coat that is relatively easy to maintain. Weekly brushing with a hound glove or rubber curry brush will remove loose hair and dirt, and keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Blueticks only need occasional baths, unless they‘ve rolled in something stinky.

Like all floppy-eared dogs, Blueticks are prone to ear infections. Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent wax and moisture build-up. Dental hygiene is also important for this breed, as they are susceptible to gum disease and tooth decay. Brush your Bluetick‘s teeth daily, or at least a few times a week, and provide plenty of chew toys and dental treats to help scrape away plaque.

Blueticks are generally healthy dogs, with a lifespan of 11 to 12 years. However, like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain health conditions. These include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and various eye disorders such as cherry eye and progressive retinal atrophy. Choosing a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs can help minimize the risk of inherited diseases.

Bloat, or gastric dilatation volvulus, is another serious concern for deep-chested breeds like the Bluetick. This life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow. Feeding smaller meals throughout the day and avoiding exercise right after eating can help reduce the risk of bloat.

Fun Facts and Trivia

• The Bluetick Coonhound is the official state dog of Tennessee.
• In 2016, a Bluetick named Niko made headlines for climbing to the top of a 60-foot oak tree while pursuing a raccoon. It took rescuers two hours to get him down!
• The breed‘s baying bark is so loud, it can be heard from miles away.
• Blueticks have webbed feet, which make them excellent swimmers.
• Famous Bluetick Coonhounds include Smokey, the University of Tennessee‘s mascot, and Old Blue, a legendary hunting dog from the 1800s.

Finding a Bluetick Coonhound

If you think a Bluetick Coonhound might be the breed for you, take your time to find a responsible breeder or rescue group. Look for a breeder who health tests their dogs, socializes their puppies, and is happy to answer all your questions. Avoid pet stores and online sellers, as they often source their puppies from puppy mills.

Adopting an adult Bluetick from a rescue group or shelter is another great option. Many purebred dogs end up in rescue through no fault of their own, and can make wonderful companions. Bluetick rescue groups can help match you with the right dog for your lifestyle and experience level.

Final Thoughts

Bluetick Coonhounds are a special breed with a lot to offer the right owner. They are skilled hunters with an incredible nose, as well as loyal and loving family companions. While their high exercise needs and vocal nature may not be for everyone, those who welcome a Bluetick into their lives are rewarded with a devoted and entertaining friend.

With proper training, socialization, and care, your Bluetick will be by your side for all of life‘s adventures. Whether you‘re hitting the trail or cuddling on the couch, this stunning scenthound is sure to steal your heart. And who knows, you might even learn to love that melodious baying bark!