Redbone Coonhound

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Redbone Coonhounds may suffer from hip dysplasia, hyperthyroidism, and eye disorders such as glaucoma and central progressive retinal atrophy (CPRA). Genetic testing is recommended, including for the blood disorder called Pelger–Huet anomaly, and the neurological condition canine polyradiculoneuritis.

Personality and Behavior

Redbone Coonhounds are known for their well-rounded personality. They are generally good-natured, amiable, and eager to please. They're also known for their versatility as family pets and hunting dogs.

They have a keen instinct to track scents, and they can be quite focused and determined when on a trail. Despite their hunting instincts, they are typically good with children and other dogs. They have a lot of energy and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. However, they can also be quite laid-back when they're at home.

Scent Hound Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

Scent Hounds were historically used as hunting dogs. They were bred for their exceptional sense of smell, which is also a defining factor of this lineage of dogs. Scent hounds also have a distinctive bark which sounds more like a howl, this was developed to communicate with their hunters. Many breeds within this lineage were bred to work in groups, and have a strong pack mentality. Scent Hounds tend to have a stronger drive to follow their nose instinctually than their human counterpart. Scent hounds are also known for their endurance and stamina, these traits allow them to follow scents over long distances and for long periods of time.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Basset Hound, English Foxhound, and Dachshund.

Fun Facts

The Redbone Coonhound has a distinctive bay that can carry for long distances. This was important for hunters who needed to locate their dogs in dense forests or over vast areas.

The breed gained fame through the classic novel "Where the Red Fern Grows" by Wilson Rawls. The book tells the story of a young boy and his two Redbone Coonhound dogs, named Old Dan and Little Ann.

Despite their hunting background, many Redbones are also excellent swimmers and enjoy water activities.

This breed demonstrates exceptional speed and agility.

References

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/redbone-coonhound/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/redbone-coonhound