Are Bluetick Coonhounds Good Guard Dogs? | Protection Guide

Bluetick Coonhounds make moderate guard dogs. They are naturally friendly and social with a low level of protectiveness and mild territorial instincts. While they possess good alertness and will bark to signal strangers, their primary focus is tracking and hunting rather than guarding. Therefore, specialized guard training is recommended if you want them to serve as effective protection dogs.

Understanding the Bluetick Coonhound's Protective Instincts

Bluetick Coonhounds were bred mainly for hunting raccoons, following cold trails with determination. This heritage means they are highly energetic and have a strong prey drive but are not naturally aggressive or defensive by nature. Their protectiveness score is relatively low, and they tend to be more welcoming than wary of strangers.

However, Blueticks are quite vocal and alert. They will bark loudly to announce unfamiliar visitors, which can serve as a deterrent. Their territorial behavior is mild, so they may not instinctively challenge intruders but will alert their owners effectively.

Practical Advice for Owners Considering Guard Duties

If you want a Bluetick Coonhound to act as a guard dog, it’s essential to understand their natural tendencies. They are:

• Friendly and social, generally good with family and strangers alike
• Vocal and alert, likely to bark at new sounds or people
• Independent hunters, which can sometimes make obedience training a challenge

Because of these traits, relying solely on natural instincts for protection isn’t sufficient. Owners should focus on enhancing their alertness and teaching appropriate boundaries.

Training or Management Strategies for Guarding

To prepare a Bluetick Coonhound for guard duties, follow these steps:

1. Basic obedience training: Establish strong commands for recall, sit, stay, and heel. Consistency is key.
2. Socialization: Expose your dog to a variety of people and environments to build confidence without aggression.
3. Alert barking training: Encourage barking on cue to alert you, but also teach a “quiet” command to control excessive noise.
4. Professional protection training: Consult a trainer experienced in personal protection to teach controlled guarding behaviors.
5. Secure environment: Provide a safe, fenced area to satisfy their exercise and mental stimulation needs, reducing anxiety.

Common Scenarios and Solutions

• Excessive barking: Use positive reinforcement to teach when barking is appropriate.
• Distracted by prey: Redirect focus with command training to maintain control.
• Low aggression: Supplement natural alertness with professional guard dog training.
• Separation anxiety: Provide plenty of exercise and mental challenges to prevent destructive behavior.

Conclusion

Bluetick Coonhounds are not naturally inclined to be aggressive guard dogs, but their alertness and vocal nature make them good watchdogs. Their friendly demeanor means they are better suited as family companions who can alert owners to strangers rather than confront intruders. For those seeking a reliable guard dog, professional training is essential to develop controlled protection skills. With the right approach, Blueticks can contribute to home security while remaining loving pets.

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Short Answer: Bluetick Coonhounds make moderate guard dogs. They are friendly and have mild territorial instincts, with good alertness to strangers. However, professional training is recommended to develop effective guarding behaviors.