The Black and Tan Raccoon Hunting Dog is a breed developed in the United States, where it was bred, as its name suggests, for hunting raccoons and other small animals. As distinguishing characteristics, the breed has a black and tan coloration and long, drooping ears. In addition, it has a keen sense of smell and excellent tracking ability.
General details
Dogs of the breed are large in size and powerful and agile in appearance. The weight ranges between 30 and 50 kilograms, while the height varies between 63.5 and 69 centimeters in males and between 58 and 63.5 centimeters in females. The life expectancy of this breed is 10 to 12 years. They belong to Group 6 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which groups hounds, tracking dogs and similar breeds.
Breed history in brief
The Black and Tan Raccoon Hunting Dog is a breed developed in the southern United States. The origin of the breed dates back to the 18th century, when European settlers imported hunting dogs to the American colonies. It is likely that the breed originated from the crossing of several breeds, including Chien de Saint-Hubert, Foxhound and Virginia Foxfound. Over the years, the Black and Tan Raccoon Hunting Dog was also known for hunting animals such as opossum and squirrel.
In 1945 the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club, from that time to the present day it has been a popular companion and hunting dog because of its affectionate nature and keen sense of smell.
Breed characteristics
The Black and Tan Raccoon Hunting Dog is a strong boned dog with developed musculature, two characteristics more pronounced in males than in females. The eyes are slightly rounded and may show lighter or darker shades of brown. The ears are long and drooping with wrinkles, while the tail is strong and carried at right angles to the back when the dog is in motion.
The coat is short, dense and black in color with tan markings over the eyes, both sides of the muzzle, chest, limbs and buttocks.
The Black and Tan Raccoon Hunting Dog is known for its outgoing, friendly and sociable nature. In addition, it is able to maintain a good relationship with children and other pets. They are intelligent and independent dogs, although they are very loyal and devoted to their owners. They are also excellent trackers with a developed hunting instinct, therefore, strict training and socialization from an early age is recommended.
Common health problems
The breed is robust, with few health problems. However, it is predisposed to some common dog diseases or disorders such as entropion, hemophilia B, hip or elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy.
In addition to the above disorders, the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends cardiac and autoimmune thyroiditis screening.
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