Temperament of the Dog

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a noble, loyal breed that is very loving to their families and usually other pets, with the exception of small vermin like creatures i.e. rabbits, hamsters, etc. They love to be part of a group so single owners looking for a companion may not be the best match. They are quite tolerant of children and lots of activity and usually consider such as part of their “pre-tracking ritual.”

A quick-to-follow, intelligent, loyal and good-natured hunter and companion, the Black and Tan Coonhound pleases hunter and owner alike. The Black and Tan is an alert and eager dog who is very dedicated to his work. Some sources say this passionate worker is a bit aggressive, but will listen to his master. Other sources say he is gentle and friendly with people.

Some individuals are protective and are a bit reserved with strangers, but welcoming after an initial period. Some Black and Tan tend to be aggressive with other strange dogs.

Sometimes they can play rough. This dog can be willful, requiring firm, patient and on-going training. They may howl if they are left alone too much. Do not let this breed off the leash in an unsafe area, as they may take off after an interesting scent.

This is a very vocal breed and will express itself often with barking or baying as a way to communicate a wish to you. This is a pack characteristic and one that has been nurtured to serve his owner in the field. While it may be possible to train some of this trait out of the dog, it will never fully be obedient to silence and as an owner one should love and respect this aspect of the breed.

While Black and Tan Coonhound has many positive characteristics and is a superior pet in many ways, it is not recommended that first time dog owners begin with this breed. Their need for space and expression of abilities needs to be understood and appreciated by their owner. An owner with knowledge of this breed is preferred or one with previous pet experience at the least will be best suited for Black and Tan Coonhound.

Better suited to an indoor or outdoor lifestyle?

A properly bred Black and Tan Coonhound is a pack dog for the elements and would rather be with canines or family outside whenever possible. They can consider their family a pack but a lifestyle indoors on a sofa is not for him. A fenced yard is ideal for Black and Tan Coonhound; this breed will totally ignore the warning and shock of invisible fencing whenever there is a scent to follow. Black and Tan Coonhound is definitely not an urban or apartment breed.

Are they suited to homes with kids?

Black and Tan Coonhound is a great breed for all ages of children. They may be a bit rough in their play for the smallest of children as they are a rambunctious dog at play. Otherwise they are most loving and tolerant of children.