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hound
United States
AKC Recognized

Redbone Coonhound

even-tempered
amiable
eager to please
mellow
affectionate
devoted

The Redbone Coonhound is an American scenthound known for their striking solid red coat and melodious voice. They are amiable, easy-going dogs who are devoted to their families. Featured in the novel 'Where the Red Fern Grows,' they are excellent hunting dogs and loving companions.

Key Stats

Weight

45-70 lbs

Height

21-27"

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

4/5

Energy

4/5

Is This Breed Right For You?

Lifestyle Fit
Apartment Living
1/5
First-Time Owners
2/5
Being Left Alone
2/5
Family Fit
Good with Kids
5/5
Good with Dogs
5/5
Good with Cats
2/5
Care Commitment
Grooming Needs
1/5
Shedding Level
3/5
Trainability
3/5
Large Size
60+ min/day exercise
single coat

Origin & History

Redbone Coonhounds descended from red foxhounds brought to America by Scottish immigrants in the late 1700s. They were bred to hunt raccoons and other game. The breed was refined for their solid red color. The AKC recognized them in 2009.

Traits & Characteristics

Individual dogs may vary from breed-typical traits

Family & Social

Family Affection
5/5
Good with Kids
5/5
Good with Dogs
5/5
Stranger Friendly
4/5

Personality

Energy Level
4/5
Playfulness
4/5
Trainability
3/5
Intelligence
4/5

Physical Traits

Shedding
3/5
Grooming Needs
1/5
Drooling
2/5
Barking
5/5

Adaptability

Apartment Living
1/5
First-Time Owners
2/5
Cold Tolerance
3/5
Heat Tolerance
4/5

Health & Wellness

Key health information for Redbone Coonhound owners

Health Screening

  • Hip & Elbow Evaluation
  • Cardiac Exam
  • Eye Certification

Exercise Needs

  • 60+ minutes daily
  • Mental stimulation important
  • High energy breed

Watch For

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Ear Infections (Otitis)

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Care Guide

Everything you need to know about caring for a Redbone Coonhound

Grooming

weekly

Exercise

60+ min/day

Training

Moderate

Health

Generally Good

Training Your Redbone Coonhound

Training Approach

Use positive reinforcement with patience. They respond to food motivation. Keep training interesting. Accept some hound independence. They need secure fencing.

Training Tips

  • Be patient and consistent
  • Use food motivation
  • Keep them on leash outdoors
  • Secure fencing essential
  • Recall training is challenging

Common Challenges

  • Very vocal
  • Strong prey drive
  • May follow scent and wander
  • Can be stubborn

Is a Redbone Coonhound Right For You?

Great Match If...

  • You have children or a family
  • You have other dogs
  • You're active and outdoorsy
  • You want a loyal companion

Think Twice If...

  • You live in a small space
  • You want a low-energy dog
  • You're away from home often

Ready to welcome a Redbone Coonhound?

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Frequently Asked Questions

They are called Redbone for their distinctive solid red coat color. They are the only coonhound with a solid-colored coat (others have patterns).

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