Redbone Coonhound
Quick Summary
Athletic and friendly hunting companion ideal for active owners. Key traits include tracking ability and family devotion. Best suited for spacious homes with experienced handlers.
Contents
Weight Range
45-70 lbs
♂ Male: 45-70 lbs
♀ Female: 45-70 lbs
Height Range
53-69 inches
♂ Male: 22-27"
♀ Female: 22-27"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #76
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Hound Group
Originally bred for Developed in the American South during the 1800s, Redbone Coonhounds excelled at tracking and treeing game, particularly raccoons and cougars, proving invaluable to hunters in challenging terrain
Popularity
#142
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 22"-27" |
| Female Height | 22"-27" |
| Male Weight | 45-70 lbs |
| Female Weight | 45-70 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 3/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $800-1500 for purchase, plus vaccination and spaying/neutering expenses. Monthly costs average $100-150 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary expenses typically range from $500-800.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Redbone Coonhounds display a balanced temperament combining hunting prowess with gentle family companionship. Their high energy requires proper outlets, while their social nature makes them excellent family dogs. Known for their melodious bay and strong tracking instincts.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring regular family interaction and companionship. Generally good with other dogs and children. Can become anxious if left alone for extended periods, benefiting from 4-6 hours of daily interaction.
Breed Overview
Redbone Coonhounds possess a striking solid red coat and muscular build, with long ears and soulful brown eyes. Their athletic frame supports their renowned hunting abilities, while their expressive face reveals their gentle, even-tempered nature. Standing proudly with a deep chest and strong legs, these hounds combine power with agility, displaying the classic traits of a skilled trailing dog.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent tracking abilities
- ✓ Friendly temperament
- ✓ Good with families
- ✓ Low grooming needs
Cons
- ✗ High exercise requirements
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Can be vocal
- ✗ Needs space to roam
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Even-Tempered, Amiable, Eager to Please |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including long walks, scent work, and vigorous play sessions. High-intensity activities like tracking and hiking are ideal, with moderate to high energy levels demanding regular physical and mental stimulation.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active adults need protein-rich nutrition with proper fat content. Special attention to portion control prevents weight gain common in this breed.
Feed 3-4 cups premium dry food daily, split into two meals. Choose protein-rich formulas suitable for active hunting breeds. Monitor weight closely as breed can become overweight. Fresh water always available, especially after exercise.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large fenced yards. Thrives in rural or suburban settings with ample space to run and explore. Adapts well to various climates but needs indoor access during extreme weather.
Requires minimum half-acre fenced yard for exercise. Ideal setting includes secure outdoor space for running and exploring. Adaptable to suburban life if exercise needs are met, but not suited for apartment living.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Bred in the Southern United States, Redbone Coonhounds emerged from red foxhounds and other hunting breeds. Selective breeding for their distinctive solid red coat began in Georgia and Tennessee, creating a versatile hunter capable of tracking various game.
Historical Purpose
Developed in the American South during the 1800s, Redbone Coonhounds excelled at tracking and treeing game, particularly raccoons and cougars, proving invaluable to hunters in challenging terrain.
Fun Fact
Their distinctive bay can be heard for miles, making them legendary among hunting breeds for their vocal abilities.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular ear cleaning needed due to long ears. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Strong prey drive requires secure fencing and leashed walks.