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Black and Tan Coonhound
Hound breed from United States
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Black and Tan Coonhound
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large, powerful scent hound developed in the United States. It has a short black and tan coat, long ears, and a distinctive loud, bawling bark. The breed is known for its cold nose and determined trailing ability. Temperament is described as friendly, outgoing, intelligent, alert, adaptable, and easygoing. Energy level is high (4 out of 5), and trainability is moderate (3 out of 5). Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5), with moderate shedding (3 out of 5). The breed is generally good with children (4 out of 5) and moderately compatible with other dogs (3 out of 5). Apartment suitability is low (2 out of 5). Adult weight ranges from 29 to 50 kg (estimated), height from 64 to 69 cm (estimated), and lifespan from 10 to 12 years (estimated). Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Black and Tan Coonhound at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHound
OriginUnited States
Lifespan10–12 years
Male weight29–50 kilogram
Female weight29–50 kilogram
Male height64–69 centimetre
Female height64–69 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Black and Tan Coonhound was developed in the American South by frontiersmen in the 18th century. It descends from crosses of the English Foxhound, Bloodhound, and Talbot Hound. The breed was created for raccoon hunting and tracking over rugged Appalachian terrain. Its history is tied to the early American frontier, where its cold nose and loud bark were valued for night hunting. The breed's development reflects the needs of hunters in the southern United States, but specific dates and individuals involved are not documented in the available sources.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
29–50 kilogramAdult weight64–69 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsBlack and TanRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyoutgoingintelligentalertadaptableeasygoing
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Black and Tan Coonhound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Black and Tan Coonhound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight29–50 kilogramAdult female weight29–50 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Black and Tan Coonhound?
Adult weight is estimated at 29 to 50 kg for both males and females. Adult height is estimated at 64 to 69 cm. Lifespan is estimated at 10 to 12 years. These are modelled estimates, not exact measurements.
What is the temperament of a Black and Tan Coonhound?
The breed is described as friendly, outgoing, intelligent, alert, adaptable, and easygoing. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits.
How much exercise does a Black and Tan Coonhound need?
Energy level is rated 4 out of 5, indicating high exercise needs. The breed was developed for hunting over rugged terrain, so regular vigorous activity is important.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5) due to the short coat. Shedding is moderate (3 out of 5). Occasional brushing and bathing are sufficient.
Is the Black and Tan Coonhound good for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is low (2 out of 5). The breed is large and energetic, so it is better suited to homes with space and a yard.
How does the breed get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 4 out of 5, indicating generally good compatibility, but supervision is recommended. Dog compatibility is 3 out of 5, meaning some individuals may be less tolerant of other dogs.
Where did the Black and Tan Coonhound originate?
The breed originated in the United States, specifically in the American South. It was developed by frontiersmen in the 18th century from crosses of English Foxhound, Bloodhound, and Talbot Hound for raccoon hunting.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.