The streamlined Redbone Coonhound, an American original, is even-tempered, mellow, and kindly at home but a tiger on the trail. Vigorous activities like hunting and swimming between long periods of rest is the rhythm of coonhound life.
Redbone Coonhounds are determined, energetic, tenacious, tireless and fearless, especially while on the hunt. These personality traits are part of what make Redbones such fantastic scenthounds. In addition, Redbone Coonhounds are affectionate, friendly, kind-hearted, sensitive and extremely good with children and other animals. This is not a high-strung, fussy or clingy breed. Redbones adapt effortlessly to a wide variety of new situations. They are not suspicious or wary around strangers, nor are they overly boisterous or pushy. These are solid, stable hound dogs that can work in the field all day, and then comfortably relax with the family for a nice evening at home.
The Redbone Coonhound should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
The Redbone Conhound’s short, smooth, protective coat requires a minimum of care. Using a shedding tool or grooming mitt at least weekly will help keep shedding to a minimum. This action also distributes skin oils down the hair shaft, giving his coat a natural shine. Nails should be trimmed once a month, and a bath every four to six weeks will keep the coat and skin clean and healthy. The Redbone’s ears should be checked weekly and cleaned of any excess wax and debris as needed.
Redbone Coonhounds are generally healthy dogs. Responsible breeders test their stock for health concerns and communicate with other dedicated breeders regularly, working together for breed health and preservation of the breed’s unique qualities. A Redbone’s ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste formulated for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life.
Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:
Redbones are one of six hounds developed by American settlers to provide a steady source of raccoon meat and fur during the new nation’s expansion to the south and west. Coonhounds are often portrayed in pop culture as lazy ol’ dawgs snoozing away their lives on the front porch. But anyone who’s been on a “nite hunt” in pursuit of the wily, nocturnal raccoon will tell you that Redbones and their cooner cousins are among dogdom’s most tireless and tenacious pursuers.