Treeing Walker Coonhound
Description
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a sleek, athletic hound bred for tracking and treeing raccoons. Originating in the southern U.S., this breed carries a proud hunting legacy dating back to the 19th century. Their short, smooth coat often features striking tri-color patterns with black spots and tan trim, making them stand out in any crowd. They weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, with a lean, muscular build built for endurance. These dogs are vocal and driven by their strong prey instincts, often baying loudly when on a scent or bored. They’re friendly with kids and other pets but need secure containment to prevent wandering. Training early on is key to managing their natural tracking urges and high activity levels. Expect a dog that’s always alert, ready to move, and eager to please when properly engaged.
Grooming
The Treeing Walker Coonhound’s short, smooth coat is easy to maintain but still benefits from regular care. Brush once a week using a rubber curry or bristle brush to remove loose hairs and keep the coat shiny. Bathing every 4 to 8 weeks is sufficient; over-bathing can strip natural oils and dry the skin. Their nails should be trimmed every 2 to 4 weeks to prevent cracking or discomfort, and ears need monthly checks and cleaning to avoid buildup. Pay special attention to the white areas and spots, as these can show dirt more quickly, especially around the paws and chest. Use a damp cloth to spot clean as needed between baths. Key grooming points: - Weekly brushing with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bath every 4–8 weeks, avoid frequent washing - Nail trims every 2–4 weeks - Monthly ear cleaning - Spot clean white markings regularly Pro tip: Keep a grooming mitt handy for quick touch-ups after outdoor adventures to remove dirt and loose hair without a full bath.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Treeing Walker Coonhounds require about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to channel their energy and satisfy their tracking instincts. A morning walk can focus on brisk exercise, while an evening session might include scent games or off-leash time in a secure area to engage their nose and mind. A typical routine could look like this: - Morning: 50-minute brisk walk with some light jogging and obedience drills - Evening: 50-minute walk with scent tracking games or controlled off-leash time This breed thrives on mental and physical stimulation, so mixing up routes and adding challenges keeps them focused and content. Without enough exercise, their vocalizations and restlessness may increase, so consistency is key.
Boarding
When boarding a Treeing Walker Coonhound, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their lean, athletic frame comfortably. They enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp and bodies tired. Staff should note this breed’s vocal nature and natural drive to track scents, so secure fencing and supervision are essential to prevent escapes. They respond well to positive interaction and structured activities but can become bored if left idle. Enrichment like puzzle feeders or scent trails helps reduce stress and keeps them engaged. Their social nature means they usually get along with other dogs, but introductions should be managed carefully to avoid overexcitement. Overall, a routine that balances exercise, mental challenges, and downtime works best for their well-being during boarding.