Redbone Coonhound

Redbone Coonhounds live 11 to 12 years. Hip dysplasia and ear infections are the main concerns. Their long floppy ears trap moisture and heat, so check and clean them weekly. Bloat can occur in this deep chested breed, so feed two meals daily and keep exercise away from mealtimes. This is a generally hardy hunting breed when cared for properly.

The short, dense red coat needs only a weekly brush to stay clean and healthy. Their ears need weekly attention to prevent infection. Bathe monthly or when your dog finds something to roll in. Trim nails every three to four weeks and brush teeth regularly. Grooming needs are low with this breed.

Your Redbone Coonhound needs at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. Running, scent work, and field activities match their endurance and drive. They follow their nose without hesitation, so never let them off leash in an unsecured area. Secure fencing is essential. Without enough exercise, Redbones become vocal and restless.

Redbones are friendly and willing but nose driven, which means training requires patience and high value food rewards. Once they catch a scent, commands become background noise. Start early, socialize widely, and focus on leash manners and basic obedience. Recall in open areas is genuinely difficult with this breed. Scent work and tracking activities keep them mentally engaged.

Feed a quality large breed formula twice daily. Hunting Redbones in the field need more calories than lightly active pets, so adjust portions based on your dog actual workload. Measure portions carefully and monitor body condition monthly. Two meals per day reduces bloat risk in this deep chested breed.

The Redbone Coonhound developed in the American South from red foxhounds brought by Scottish immigrants in the late 1700s, refined over generations for trailing raccoon, bear, and mountain lion at night by scent alone. Their deep, melodious bay let hunters track their progress through dark forests from a distance. The breed became famous internationally through Wilson Rawls 1961 novel Where the Red Fern Grows. The AKC recognized the Redbone Coonhound in 2009.