Redbone Coonhound: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

The Redbone coonhound is a medium to large American hound dog with a short, sleek, brilliant red coat and a muscular body. Mild-mannered yet energetic, these hardworking hounds are well-suited to both hunting and companionship. Redbones are known for their distinct voices—like most hounds, they bay, which some people find rather endearing.

Learn more about the Redbone coonhound, from the breed’s history to its care needs.

Breed Overview

GROUP: Hound

HEIGHT: 21 to 27 inches

WEIGHT: 45 to 70 pounds

COAT: Short, smooth

COAT COLOR: Deep, solid red

LIFE SPAN: 10 to 12 years

TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, independent, energetic, intelligent, fun-loving, friendly

HYPOALLERGENIC: No

ORIGIN: United States

Characteristics of the Redbone Coonhound

The Redbone coonhound is an energetic hunting dog with a short attention span. However, they can be laid-back when not working, allowing a goofy yet soulful personality to shine through.

These dogs have lovable personalities, making them desirable family pets. But, true to their hunting dog roots, this dog is usually not excessively clingy with their humans.

Redbones are scent hounds, so they will sniff everything with great concentration and intensity. Also, this breed is generally friendly to everyone, which makes them good companions but not ideal guard dogs.

History of the Redbone Coonhound

Redbone coonhounds originated from red foxhounds brought to the United States by Scottish immigrants in the late 18th century. While it may seem like their name comes from their color, it may actually come from the name of an early breeder, Peter Redbone.1

The majority of the breed's development took place in the Southeastern United States, especially in the state of Georgia. Over time, the Scottish foxhounds were bred for raccoon-hunting traits and were eventually crossed with Irish hounds and possibly bloodhounds which led to the Redbone coonhound we know today.

Originally, the Redbone's coat featured a black saddleback streak, but through years of breeding their fur evolved into its notable red color.2

By the end of the 19th century, the Redbone coonhound was a well-established breed. Redbones have continued to act as excellent hunters and loyal companions. The Redbone coonhound was officially accepted into the American Kennel Club (AKC) hound group in 2009, yet they're still rare outside of North America.

Redbone Coonhound Care

Redbone coonhounds can be great family dogs when properly trained. ​Socialization and training are just as important for a Redbone as exercise. Another advantage is that this breed has low-maintenance grooming needs.

Exercise

This breed has loads of energy and can easily become bored, so adequate exercise is essential—as much as 90 minutes per day is recommended by some experts. These hounds are excellent swimmers, so this is another option to fulfill the dog's movement needs.

Redbones should be kept on a leash or in a fenced-in area and not permitted to roam free. Once they catch an interesting scent, they'll follow it with intensity. With a strong desire to hunt, this hound can go far very quickly. Taking your dog for a long walk with lots of opportunities to sniff will help to keep them happy and stimulated.

Grooming

Redbone coonhounds have short, smooth coats with a fairly low rate of shedding. Routine basic grooming with weekly brushing is all that's typically necessary to keep Redbones looking their best.

They tend to have a distinctive musky hound odor, which you can reduce with regular bathing.

Like all dogs with long floppy ears, it's important to keep the ears clean and dry to prevent infection. Also, trim your dog's nails to prevent splitting and tears. Brush your dog's teeth daily to maintain dental hygiene and help prevent periodontal disease and oral infections.

Training

Redbones are intelligent dogs, but they can also have a stubborn streak. Proper training is an absolute necessity and will help strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

They're easily trained for hunting duties but other mundane commands don't click as naturally. They need lots of patience and persistence when being trained and respond best to positive reinforcement.

As is common to most hounds, they're also known to creatively interpret your instructions rather than follow them in the way you intended.

Common Health Problems

Redbone coonhounds are generally very healthy dogs. The breed can sustain running injuries while on the hunt, however.

Responsible breeders work to uphold the breed standard as established by clubs like the AKC and perform testing to prevent them from inheriting health conditions. However, some hereditary health problems can occur in the breed. The following are conditions to watch for in a Redbone:

• Hip dysplasia: This orthopedic condition causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. Dogs experience pain and mobility issues, and should be treated by a veterinarian.

• Ear infections (otitis): Bacteria and fungi can cause inflammatory reactions in the ears, especially in dogs with floppy ears like Redbones. Symptoms include odor from the ears, shaking the head, scratching the ears, and ear discharge. A veterinarian can provide treatment.

Diet and Nutrition

A Redbone coonhound will need to eat at least twice per day rather than one large meal or allowing free feeding. Choose a high-quality diet and ensure your dog is getting the appropriate amount of calories for their size and activity level.

Redbones are known to be enthusiastic eaters and are prone to overeating, so be sure to monitor your pet to see whether they're gaining weight. Obesity can shorten a dog's lifespan and put them at risk for other conditions. Discuss wight concerns with your veterinarian to get recommendations for feeding schedules, food amount, food type, and exercise needs.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Redbone Coonhound

Redbone coonhounds can be purchased from breeders, but be sure to do your research to find reputable and responsible breeders. Alternatively, you can search for Redbone coonhounds in animal rescues and shelters to find one in need of a home.

If you think you've found the perfect pet match in the Redbone coonhound, you can start by reaching out to an advocacy organization:

• American Redbone Coonhound Association

• National Redbone Coonhound Association

These groups may be able to pair you with a reputable breeder or rescue in your local area. If you aren't certain the breed is right for you, you may be able to foster a dog to see if a Redbone coonhound fits into your home and lifestyle.

Redbone Coonhound Overview

Before searching for a Redbone coonhound, think about whether you can provide enough exercise, whether you have any other small animals in your home, if you can handle the baying, and if you're able to bathe the dog regularly to control that hound odor.

Pros of Redbone Coonhounds

• Minimal shedding

• Great hunting companions

• Energetic and lively

Cons of Redbone Coonhounds

• Challenging to train for long periods

• Loud baying and howling

• May have a musty doggy odor

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

If you think the Redbone coonhound is the right dog breed for you, be sure to do plenty of research before adopting or buying one. Talk to Redbone owners, reputable breeders, and hound rescue groups to learn more.

If you're interested in similar breeds, look into these to explore their pros and cons:

• Bluetick Coonhound

• Beagle

• Rhodesian Ridgeback

Otherwise, explore our wide variety of dog breed profiles. With a little research, you can find the right one to bring home.