American English Coonhound

American English Coonhound dog

Fast American scent hound developed for tracking and treeing game across rough country.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Large 45 - 65 lbs 23 - 26 inches 11 - 12 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: United States



Own a American English Coonhound? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a American English Coonhound? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.
  • This breed tends to need plenty of regular physical activity.

The American English Coonhound developed in the United States from European hunting hounds brought to the colonies, particularly English Foxhounds. American hunters needed dogs capable of working very different terrain and pursuing a wider range of quarry than their British ancestors. Over generations, breeders selected hounds with speed, endurance, strong scenting ability, and the willingness to follow game through forests and across rough country. These dogs were used on foxes during the day and raccoons at night, eventually becoming part of the distinct American coonhound tradition. For many years, dogs now separated into several coonhound breeds were registered together according to working type rather than modern breed divisions. The United Kennel Club recognized English Coonhounds early in the 20th century, and selective breeding gradually produced more distinct populations. The American Kennel Club fully recognized the American English Coonhound in 2011. The breed remains closely connected with hunting and competitive coonhound events. Its speed distinguishes it from some heavier scent hounds, while its powerful voice allows a hunter to follow the dog's progress from a considerable distance. The breed's development reflects the adaptation of European pack-hound ancestry to distinctly American hunting conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About American English Coonhound

The American English Coonhound is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The American English Coonhound tends to have a moderate level of shedding.

The American English Coonhound generally has relatively manageable grooming needs.

The American English Coonhound is generally a high-energy breed that tends to enjoy an active routine.

The American English Coonhound tends to need plenty of regular physical activity and mental stimulation.

The American English Coonhound is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The American English Coonhound generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The American English Coonhound may be selective around other dogs, making careful socialization and introductions important.

The American English Coonhound is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The American English Coonhound may live in an apartment if its exercise, space, and enrichment needs are met.