American English Coonhound

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

Height

Male American English Coonhounds stand between 24 and 26 inches tall.

Females are slightly shorter, ranging from 23 to 25 inches.

Weight

These dogs weigh between 45 and 65 pounds.

Life Expectancy

On average, American English Coonhounds live for 11 to 12 years.

The Breed Standard

The breed standard outlines the ideal dog for each recognized breed. It serves as a guide for judging dogs at shows. It was originally set by parent breed clubs and is now officially recognized by national or international bodies.

Breed Colors & Markings

COLORS

About the Breed

The American English Coonhound is sleek and racy, with a lean but muscular build. They are known for their speed and endurance. These dogs are beloved by sportsmen for their ability to work dusk to dawn in pursuit of raccoons.

They stand as high as 26 inches at the shoulder and have a deep-chested, sweet-faced appearance. Their medium-length coat comes in various patterns, some with ticking. The head is broad with a domed skull, soft, low-hung ears, and dark-brown eyes that are warm and kind.

When off duty, American English Coonhounds are mellow but can be tenacious and stubborn when pursuing their prey. They require patience and training for activities beyond coon hunting. Their loud, ringing bark can be a challenge for novice owners. Some believe that without a sporting outlet, these dogs are wasted.

National Breed Club & Rescue

Want to connect with other people who love the same breed as much as you do? We have plenty of opportunities to get involved in your local community, thanks to AKC Breed Clubs located in every state, and more than 450 AKC Rescue Network groups across the country.

What To Expect When Caring For an American English Coonhound

Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. When you take a dog into your life, you need to understand the commitment that dog ownership entails.

Health

The American English Coonhound is bred for hard work and needs to be in good shape. They are generally healthy but can have issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. They also might have eye problems and need their ears cleaned often.

They can get bloat, a serious stomach issue, so owners should know the signs and what to do.

Protect your pet’s health with AKC Pet Insurance.

Grooming

Regular grooming is key for your American English Coonhound’s coat. They have a short, hard coat that needs minimal care. Use a shedding tool or grooming mitt weekly to keep shedding down.

Trim their nails monthly and bathe every four to six weeks. This keeps their coat and skin healthy and reduces odors. Check their ears weekly and clean them gently.

Exercise

The American English Coonhound loves to be active and needs lots of exercise. They’re perfect for runners, bikers, or hikers. They have a strong prey drive and shouldn’t be off-leash in open areas.

They need a fenced yard to run freely. Playing fetch in the backyard is a great way to exercise them.

Training

Early socialization is crucial for your American English Coonhound. It helps them be friendly and well-adjusted. They can be stubborn but are loving companions at home.

They’re best for experienced owners due to their energy and strong prey drive. Training them takes patience, but they’re rewarding companions.

Nutrition

Feed your American English Foxhound high-quality dog food. This can be commercial or homemade with your vet’s guidance. The diet should match the dog’s age.

Coonhounds can gain weight easily, so watch their calorie intake. Treats are okay but shouldn’t lead to obesity. Learn which human foods are safe for dogs.

Always have clean, fresh water available for your dog.