This gorgeous redhead is among the most laid-back Coonhound breeds. But make no mistake: Redbone Coonhounds mean serious business in the field and still have that high Coonhound energy. They're independent thinkers with a strong prey drive, who want nothing more than to chase furry animals up a tree. This breed famously appeared in Wilson Rawls' heartbreaking young adult novel, Where the Red Fern Grows: The Story of Two Dogs and a Boy. [Spoiler alert!] Old Dan and Little Ann, the dogs who save the life of the protagonist during a mountain lion attack, were Redbone Coonhounds.
Originally from the United States, this medium-sized breed can grow to between 45-65 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 | Medium |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | N/a |
| Family | Scenthound |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Raccoon hunting |
| Today's function | Raccoon hunting |
| Average size of male | Height: 22 - 27 Weight: 45 - 65 |
| Average size of female | Height: 21 - 26 Weight: 45 - 65 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | Low |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Low tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A REDBONE COONHOUND'S PERSONALITY?
Redbone Coonhounds are friendly, good-natured people-pleasers. These tenderhearted hounds bond closely with her chosen people — particularly with any kids she's decided are hers.
WHAT IS REDBONE COONHOUND BEHAVIOR LIKE?
The Redbone Coonhound is a serious hunting breed, designed to work terrains as diverse as the mountains and the swamps. These dogs are fast, confident, and sure-footed.
They're best suited to short bursts of vigorous exercise — and need them. A Redbone Coonhound will happily wear herself out swimming or hunting, and then lounge for the rest of the day.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A REDBONE COONHOUND?
Redbone Coonhounds are a biddable breed, eager to please and willing to learn. They retain a lot of puppy energy well into adulthood, however, so be patient and consistent while training. (An appreciation for this dog's comedic timing won't go amiss, either.)
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO REDBONE COONHOUNDS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
In terms of grooming, a Redbone Coonhound is a pretty easy keeper. Their coats are short and smooth, requiring weekly brushing and the occasional bath. Be sure to keep those long, gorgeous ears clean and dry to prevent infection.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO REDBONE COONHOUNDS HAVE?
As a breed, Redbone Coonhounds are very hardy and healthy. A few are susceptible to hip dysplasia or eye disease, and keeping those ears clean is a must. They're more likely to injure themselves playing or working outside, however. They are also sometimes prone to pudginess, so be conscientious about meals and snacks.
