This dog is a Tar Heel: she hails from North Carolina's western mountain region and is the state's official breed. Plotts are coonhounds — the only coonhound, as it happens, not related to foxhounds. Originally bred to bring down big game (think boar or bears), these days many Plotts still work chasing down raccoons and doing specialized hunting tasks like night hunting or cold trailing. This breed can follow a trail more than 48 hours old! Some also work as search and rescue dogs.
Originally from the United States, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 40-60 pounds and lives an average of 12-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Hound group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | USA |
| Breed group | Hound |
| Average lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | I love to talk! |
| AKC Ranking | 142 |
| Family | Scenthound |
| Date of origin | 1750 |
| Original function | Coursing hares |
| Today's function | Lure coursing |
| Average size of male | Height: 20 - 25 Weight: 50 - 60 |
| Average size of female | Height: 20 - 23 Weight: 40 - 55 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A PLOTT'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Plotts are intelligent, confident, and alert. These dogs are loyal and very sweet with their chosen people, but fearless and unstoppable while they're working. They usually get along well with other dogs. If socialized while they're young, your Plott can get along fine with an indoor cat. Outdoor cats are getting chased up trees, though.
WHAT IS PLOTT BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a serious hunting dog: courageous, determined, and tough. Plotts are a very active breed and will need rigorous outdoor exercise every day to satisfy their relentless athleticism. This dog is built to work and keep on working. They are aggressive and determined while on the hunt. Find this breed something to do, or she'll make her own fun.
Plotts are definitely barkers, so it's important to teach them when it's appropriate to use that gorgeous voice (and maybe more important to teach them when it's not appropriate).
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A PLOTT?
Plotts are smart and respond well to training, though they can be a bit stubborn. Start while your Plott is still a pup; don't train for hours at a time; and let her know when she's done a good job.
There is no training this dog not to follow her nose though, so be sure to keep your Plott on leash unless there's a well-fenced area for her to play in. Be sure to discourage possessive behaviors with food and toys.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO PLOTTS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
A Plott's coat is smooth and glossy. They're easy keepers: weekly brushings and occasional baths will do the trick. They are seasonal shedders.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO PLOTTS HAVE?
As a breed, Plotts are generally healthy. Some may be prone to eye disease or hip dysplasia.
