The Black and Tan Coonhound is a true American original. He is a specialized hunter, bred to trail and tree raccoons (hence the name) in the dense forests of the Appalachian Mountains. With his long, velvety ears, soulful eyes, and deep, booming voice, he is the picture of the classic hound—a dog that looks like he stepped right out of a folk song or a Norman Rockwell painting.

But don’t let the sleepy expression fool you. When he is on the scent, he is tireless. He will follow a trail for miles, through swamps, brambles, and pitch-black nights, baying with a sound that sends shivers down the spine of any raccoon (or neighbor). At home, however, he is a gentle giant who loves nothing more than to curl up by the fire (or on the sofa, if you let him) and sleep for 18 hours straight. He is a dog of two distinct modes: relentless hunter and professional couch potato.

History and Origin: The Night Hunter

The Black and Tan Coonhound was developed in the American South in the late 18th century. It is one of the few breeds that is genuinely “Made in the USA.”

• The Pioneer’s Dog: Frontiersmen and settlers traversing the Appalachian and Ozark Mountains needed a dog that could track game at night. They crossed the Bloodhound (for its legendary nose and bone) with the Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound (for speed and endurance).
• The “Cold Nose”: The result was a dog that could trail a “cold” scent—one that is hours or even days old—and stick with it until the quarry was treed. Unlike Foxhounds, which hunt in packs and kill the prey, the Coonhound works alone or in pairs and bays at the base of the tree until the hunter arrives.
• Recognition: The Black and Tan was the first coonhound to be recognized by the AKC as a separate breed in 1945. While there are six coonhound breeds (including the Bluetick, Redbone, and Treeing Walker), the Black and Tan is often considered the most traditional. He was famously championed by frontiersmen like Daniel Boone.

Physical Characteristics: Built for Endurance

The Black and Tan is a large, powerful hound. He covers ground effortlessly with a rhythmic, loose-limbed gait. He is built for strength and stamina, not explosive speed.

• Height: Males 25–27 inches (64-69 cm); Females 23–25 inches (58-64 cm).
• Weight: Makes 65–110 pounds (29-50 kg); Females 55–90 pounds (25-41 kg).

Distinctive Features

• The Ears: The breed’s trademark. They are long, low-set, and velvety soft. They hang in graceful folds, framing the face. When the dog tracks, the ears sweep forward, helping to waft scents toward the nose.
• The Head: Cleanly modeled with a prominent occiput (the bump at the back of the skull). The skin is loose and wrinkled, giving him a thoughtful appearance.
• The Eyes: Round and dark (hazel to dark brown). The expression is pleading, soft, and friendly.
• The Coat: Short but dense to withstand brambles and cold nights. It has a natural sheen.
• The Color: Coal black with rich tan markings above the eyes (pumpkin seeds), on the sides of the muzzle, chest, legs, and breeching. The markings are distinct and symmetrical.
• The Voice: He has a deep, musical bay that carries for miles. It is not a bark; it is a song.

Temperament and Personality

Black and Tans are famously mellow indoors, but they have a stubborn streak a mile wide.

The Couch Potato

Indoors, they are content to sleep all day. They are generally good with children, tolerant of ear-pulling, and get along well with other dogs. They are not aggressive. In fact, if a burglar broke in, a Black and Tan would probably lift his head, bay once, and go back to sleep.

The Nose Rules

But outside, the nose rules. If they catch a scent—a rabbit, a deer, a forgotten sandwich—they are gone. They are independent workers who were bred to follow a trail alone, miles away from their owner. This means they are accustomed to making their own decisions. “Come” is a suggestion, not a command.

The Howler

They are vocal. They will bay at sirens, strange noises, or just because they feel like it. While beautiful in the woods, your neighbors may not appreciate a 3 AM concert. They are also known to “talk” to their owners with grumbles and moans.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: The Marathon Runner

The Black and Tan needs moderate to high exercise.

• Daily: A long walk on a leash or a run in a securely fenced area. He is a great hiking buddy (on leash).
• Hunting: If you hunt, great. If not, try scent work or tracking trials. He needs to use his nose to be happy.
• Restraint: Never trust him off-leash in an unfenced area. No amount of training can override 200 years of instinct to follow a scent.

Training: The Independent Thinker

He is smart, but he is not a Border Collie.

• Food Motivation: He is a hound. He loves to eat. Food is the only language he speaks fluently.
• Patience: Do not expect instant obedience. He will look at you, think about it, check if you have a treat, and then maybe comply.
• Recall: Difficult. Always use a long line.

Health and Lifespan

Black and Tans are generally healthy, living 10 to 12 years.

• Ear Infections: Their long, heavy ears trap moisture and wax. Weekly cleaning is mandatory to prevent yeast and bacterial infections.
• Hip Dysplasia: Common in large breeds.
• Bloat (GDV): Deep-chested dogs are at risk. Feed smaller meals and use a slow-feeder bowl.
• Eye Issues: Ectropion (droopy eyelids) can collect debris. Cataracts can also occur.

Grooming and Care

The Black and Tan is low-maintenance in the grooming department.

• Brushing: A weekly rubdown with a hound glove or rubber mitt will remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny.
• Shedding: He sheds moderately year-round.
• Hound Odor: Hounds have a distinct, musky scent. It’s not unpleasant, but it is noticeable. Bathing helps, but it’s part of the package.
• Drool: He may drool, especially after drinking or if he smells food.

Is a Black and Tan Coonhound Right for You?

The Black and Tan is a wonderful, mellow companion for the right person.

Yes, if:

• You want a laid-back, gentle dog. You appreciate a dog that chills.
• You have a securely fenced yard. A physical fence, not an invisible one.
• You are patient with stubbornness. You have a sense of humor.
• You love the hound look. You find the ears irresistible.
• You are an active walker/hiker. You enjoy long, sniffing walks.

No, if:

• You want an off-leash dog. He will run off.
• You live in an apartment with thin walls. The baying will get you evicted.
• You want a pristine house. There will be dog hair, some drool, and a houndy smell.
• You want a dog that obeys instantly. He has his own agenda.

For the person who appreciates a dog with history, heart, and a nose that knows, the Black and Tan Coonhound is a loyal, loving, and deeply soulful friend who will sing you the song of his people.