what they are likeAmerican English Coonhound temperament
Good-natured, friendly and loyal, it is sociable with people and other dogs. It has a strong hunting instinct, so small animals can look like something to chase.341
how to spot oneAmerican English Coonhound coat and colours
hard, protective hound coat
A lean, fast, athletic hound with a hard, protective coat of short to medium length.34
Coloursredtickblueticktricolour with tickingred and whiteblack and whitelemon and white34
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for an American English Coonhound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
by countryIs the American English Coonhound legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the American English Coonhound in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksAmerican English Coonhound exercise needs
A high-energy hound built to hunt through the night; it needs plenty of daily exercise such as long walks, jogging, hiking, scent work or dog sports.12
the hands-on bitsAmerican English Coonhound grooming and care
The coat is low-maintenance: brushing once or twice a week handles shedding. Check and clean the floppy ears regularly.12
what goes in the bowlAmerican English Coonhound food and feeding
Adults usually eat twice a day and puppies three to four small meals; choose a complete, balanced food and adjust portions to age and activity.1
who they like aroundAmerican English Coonhound with people and other pets
Enjoys company, whether human or canine; a hound that fits well into a busy, active household.23
where it all beganAmerican English Coonhound history
English hounds came to America with settlers such as Robert Brooke in 1650, and later imports by Thomas Walker and George Washington helped shape the Virginia Hounds. Hunters adapted these dogs for raccoon and other quarry over rough terrain at night. The UKC recognised the breed in 1905 and the AKC in 2011.34
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
George Washington's imported hounds are among its ancestors.3
2
When on a trail it gives a continuous 'bawl' that tells hunters how close it is to its quarry.2
3
It became the AKC's 171st recognised breed in 2011.4
4
It is also known as the Redtick Coonhound, after its common ticked coat.4
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed is called 'American English Coonhound' because it was developed in America from English hunting dogs, and 'Coonhound' refers to its primary use of hunting raccoons.5
told by an American English CoonhoundA day in the life
I woke up before the sun, ready for adventure! I sniffed the air and caught a whiff of a squirrel. My human groaned, but I nudged their hand until they put on my leash. We jogged through the woods, and I followed a scent trail, my tail waving like a flag. I found a stick and brought it back, dropping it at their feet. Later, I dozed on the porch, dreaming of chasing rabbits. When the kids came out, I barked a happy hello. Every day is a treasure hunt!
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
UKC
First recognised in 1905 as the English Fox and Coonhound; now registered as English Coonhound in the Scenthound Group.3
AKC
Foundation Stock Service 1995, Miscellaneous Class 2010, full recognition in the Hound Group on 30 June 2011.4
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my American English Coonhound, and at what times?
Adult American English Coonhounds usually eat twice a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feed at consistent times each day, and adjust portions based on your dog's age and activity level. Always follow the food label and check with your vet for exact amounts.16
What should an American English Coonhound eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete and balanced dog food suited to your hound's age and activity. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, onion, garlic, and macadamia nuts. Never give raw meat, eggs, or bones, and keep human treats like avocado and dairy away.17
How often should I bathe an American English Coonhound?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or spends a lot of time outdoors. Their short, hard coat doesn't need frequent bathing, so once every three months is often enough.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does an American English Coonhound need brushing?
Brush your American English Coonhound once or twice a week to keep shedding under control. Their short to medium coat is low-maintenance, and weekly brushing is usually enough to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy.128Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim an American English Coonhound's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside), and use a proper dog nail trimmer. If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does an American English Coonhound need?
This high-energy hound needs plenty of daily exercise, such as long walks, jogging, hiking, or scent work. Aim for at least an hour of activity each day, and include playtime or dog sports to keep them happy and fit.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after an American English Coonhound's teeth and ears?
Brush your hound's teeth ideally daily, or at least a few times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check and dry their floppy ears weekly to prevent moisture buildup and infections, never push anything into the ear canal. Regular care keeps both healthy.128Pet Wiki plan
How long does an American English Coonhound live?
American English Coonhounds typically live 11 to 12 years. With good care, regular vet visits, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long, active life.1
Is an American English Coonhound good with children and other pets?
Yes, they are friendly and loyal with children and other dogs, making them great family companions. However, their strong hunting instinct means small animals like cats or rabbits may trigger a chase, so early socialization and supervision are important.3412
Can an American English Coonhound be left alone?
This sociable hound loves company and may become anxious if left alone for long periods. They fit best in a busy, active household where someone is often home. For your specific situation, ask a good breeder or vet for advice.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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