American English Coonhound — breed guide
Descended from English Foxhounds brought over in the 1600s and bred for speed on raccoon — one of the fastest of the coonhounds.
At a glance
- Group
- hound
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 20–30 kg (44–66 lb)
- Life span
- 11–12 years
- Coat
- Short, hard, protective coat
Living with a American English Coonhound
- Very high energy — built for work and long days out.
- Almost no grooming.
- Moderate shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Very vocal.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Handles warm weather well.
- Average cold tolerance.
Temperament
Mellow at home · Frantic on scent · Sociable · Musical
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Eye problems
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a American English Coonhound good with kids?
Generally yes. American English Coonhounds are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a American English Coonhound good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a American English Coonhound need?
Hours — this breed needs a job or a long day out.
Can a American English Coonhound handle hot weather?
It copes well with warm days.
Leash Life keeps a American English Coonhound's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.