Redbone Coonhound

Moderately Easy Training: The Redbone Coonhound takes some time to train as it is slow to mature both physically and mentally, but it has a strong desire to please. Redbone Coonhounds have a strong natural treeing and hunting instinct. They should be well socialized at an early age and taught basic obedience.

The Redbone is a versatile hunter that specializes in treeing raccoons, but also excels in trailing and treeing bear, cougar, and bobcat. It?s both fast and agile, able to tirelessly traverse swamplands through rocky hills, and even swim through water at a fast pace. It can follow a cold trail and has a sweet voice on the trail. The coat is short and smooth, but coarse enough to provide protection.

Redbones are generally easygoing, gentle dogs that don't let much bother them. They want to be with their people, but aren't clingy or "in your face." Redbones are eager to please but can become bored with formal training. They are active when on the hunt, but quiet inside. Their passion is hunting, and once the nose hits a scent they are oblivious to much else. Redbones get along well with people, children, and dogs, but may or may not do well with small pets.

The Redbone Coonhound (also known as the ‘Redbone Hound’ or ‘Red’) is an American breed deriving from crosses between Bloodhounds and Foxhounds, possibly red foxhounds brought to America by Scottish immigrants in the late 18th century. The Redbone Coonhound was bred to ‘tree’ (track through the treetops) raccoons, possums, and larger prey such as cougar and bears. The name ‘Redbone Coonhound’ derives either from its distinctive red coat or from the name of Peter Redbone, an early breeder from Tennessee. Another influential early breeder was George Birdsong of Georgia. Breeders crossed the existing animal with the Red Irish Foxhound for increased speed and scenting. The Redbone Coonhound was then known as the ‘Saddleback’ for its black back, which was intentionally bred out for a solid red color. The Redbone Coonhound has been categorized in the American Kennel Club’s Miscellaneous class since 2001, eligible for full recognition if a sufficient number are registered. Today the Redbone Coonhound is a popular hunter and among the fastest and best scenting Coonhounds. ‘Old Dan’ and ‘Little Ann’ from the classic story ‘Where the Red Fern Grows’ are Redbone Coonhounds.