Redbone Coonhound
Description
The Redbone Coonhound stands out with its striking, solid red coat and smooth, short fur that feels sleek to the touch. Originally bred in the United States for tracking raccoons, this breed combines speed and stamina with a sharp nose, making it a natural hunter. Their history traces back to foxhounds imported from Scotland and Ireland, refined over the 19th century to excel in diverse terrains, from dense woods to waterways. Despite their hunting heritage, Redbones are surprisingly adaptable as family companions. They’re friendly and patient with kids and other pets but have a strong instinct to follow scents, which can lead to determined tracking behavior. Their baying bark carries far, so expect some vocal enthusiasm during walks or play. They typically weigh between 45 and 70 pounds, with a lean, athletic build that reflects their active lifestyle.
Grooming
The Redbone Coonhound’s smooth, short coat is low-maintenance but still benefits from regular care to keep it healthy and shiny. Shedding is light to moderate, so weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush is enough to remove loose hair and stimulate the skin. Bathing should be done every 4 to 8 weeks to avoid drying out the coat. Nail trimming every 2 to 4 weeks is important, especially for active dogs, and ears need monthly checks and cleaning to prevent buildup. - Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bathe every 4–8 weeks, no more - Trim nails every 2–4 weeks - Clean ears monthly - Spot tidy as needed, especially around paws Redbone’s rich red coat can show dirt easily, so wipe paws after outdoor adventures. White markings might need extra attention to keep them bright and clean. Pro tip: Use a damp microfiber cloth between baths to keep the coat fresh without over-washing.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Redbone Coonhounds require about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to manage their energy and keep them mentally engaged. These dogs thrive on purposeful exercise that taps into their tracking instincts, so incorporating scent games or varied terrain during walks can be very rewarding. Without enough stimulation, they might become vocal or restless. A typical routine could be a brisk 50-minute morning walk through wooded paths where they can sniff and explore, followed by a 50-minute evening stroll around the neighborhood or a local park. This balance helps burn off energy and satisfies their natural curiosity. Example routine: - Morning: 50-minute trail walk with scent challenges - Evening: 50-minute neighborhood walk with socialization opportunities
Boarding
When boarding a Redbone Coonhound, a crate size of 42 to 48 inches is recommended to comfortably accommodate their medium-large frame and allow them to stretch out. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so staff should plan for at least two energetic play blocks daily, incorporating scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp. Their vocal nature means they might bark when excited or alert, so a quiet, low-traffic area is best to reduce stress. Enrichment activities like puzzle feeders or scent trails help prevent boredom and keep them content. Staff should be aware of their tracking instincts and provide safe, supervised outdoor time to satisfy this drive. Overall, Redbones do well with consistent routines and plenty of interaction, making them excellent guests when their needs are met.