Initially bred for trailing deer and boar, the Bloodhound’s lineage dates back to medieval France. Today, they have evolved into a highly active and intelligent breed. Their exceptional sense of smell earns them a vital role in law enforcement and search and rescue operations. Fans of this breed adore their gentle disposition and iconic appearance.
With a muscular build, wrinkly skin, extra-long ears, and an incredibly powerful nose, the Bloodhound possesses a distinctive look. This breed’s physical attributes, combined with their exceptional scenting abilities, make them outstanding trackers and searchers. Bloodhounds boast the most powerful sense of smell among all canine breeds. These dogs are extraordinary trackers, particularly adept at locating people. Their scenting abilities are so precise that the evidence they discover is admissible in a court of law. Inside the house, Bloodhounds display a gentle and laid-back nature. These easygoing pups exhibit a calm and even-tempered demeanor. However, when on the trail, their tenacity and determination shine through. Despite their tracking prowess, they are affectionate and devoted to their families. These affectionate dogs eagerly embrace moments of relaxation and lounging with their loved ones.
For experienced dog parents, a more devoted and loving companion would be hard to find. That is, if you don’t mind a bit of drool from time to time. However, novice dog owners should be aware of the breed’s renowned stubbornness and sensitivity. Bloodhounds require firm, consistent training and ample exercise. If your family leads a busy lifestyle with extended periods away from home, the Bloodhound may not be the ideal choice for you.
Quick Facts
- Origin: Belgium
- Size: Male: 23-27 inches (58-69 cm) at the shoulder, Female: 21-25 inches (53-63 cm) at the shoulder
- Weight: Male: 80-110 pounds (36-50 kg), Female: 70-90 pounds (32-41 kg)
- Breed group: Hound
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Coat: Short, smooth
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, patient, loyal
- Exercise needs: 30-60 minutes of exercise per day
- Training: Can be stubborn, but can be trained with patience and positive reinforcement
- Grooming: Weekly brushing
- Health: Some health problems that are common in the bloodhound include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
- The bloodhound is featured in many other works of pop culture, including the films “The Aristocats” and “The Shawshank Redemption“.
- They can track a scent that is up to 300 hours old.
- They have 320 million scent receptors in their noses, compared to about 6 million in human noses.
Bloodhound Pictures
Adaptability
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Adapts Well To Apartment Living
Looking for the best dog for your apartment? Contrary to popular belief, the suitability of dogs who adapt well to apartment living goes beyond its size. Apartment dwellers have a myriad of dog breeds to choose from as potential companions, with various factors to consider. Some large breeds can adapt well to apartment living and have lower activity levels. Others may require more space and possess higher energy levels. On the other hand, certain small dog breeds with abundant energy can still find contentment with indoor playtime or brisk walks.
However, when selecting a dog that adapts well apartments, it is essential to prioritize your neighbors. Opting for a pet that doesn’t excessively bark and behaves politely when encountering others in shared spaces like is crucial for maintaining a harmonious apartment environment.
In high-rise settings, it’s worth noting that numerous small dogs may exhibit a propensity for high energy and frequent barking. This makes them less suitable for apartment living. Therefore, desirable qualities in an apartment dog encompass being quiet, low-energy, and displaying polite behavior towards other residents.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Dog For An Apartment
When considering dogs that adapt well to apartments, size alone should not be the sole determinant. Apartment dwellers have a wealth of dog breeds to choose from as potential furry companions. It’s important to remember that the size of your living space is just one factor to consider. While some larger breeds can adapt well to apartment living, with lower, others may require more space and have higher energy levels, making them less suitable for smaller apartments. Conversely, certain small dog breeds with higher energy levels can still thrive in apartments, finding contentment through indoor playtime or brisk walks. However, it is crucial to consider your neighbors’ comfort when selecting a dog. Opt for a pet that doesn’t bark excessively and behaves politely when interacting with others in shared spaces.
Therefore, it’s important to prioritize qualities such as being quiet, low-energy, calm indoors, and exhibiting good manners when living in close proximity to other residents. By considering these factors, you can find a dog that will adapt well to apartment living and create a harmonious living environment for everyone involved.
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Good For Novice Owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.
If you’re new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!
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Sensitivity Level
Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.
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Tolerates Being Alone
Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive–barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.
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Tolerates Cold Weather
Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. You can find a great jacket for your dog here!
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Tolerates Hot Weather
Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can’t pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you’ll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.
All-around friendliness
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Affectionate With Family
When it comes to unconditional love and unwavering loyalty, few animals can rival the affectionate nature of dogs. These remarkable creatures have earned their reputation as man’s best friend, and many breeds are particularly renowned for their love and devotion to their families. With their warm hearts and wagging tails, affectionate family dogs enrich the lives of their owners in countless ways.
One such breed known for its affectionate demeanor is the Golden Retriever. With their gentle temperament and friendly disposition, Golden Retrievers form deep bonds with their families. They eagerly participate in family activities, whether it’s a game of fetch in the yard or cuddling on the couch during a movie night. Their expressive eyes and ever-wagging tails are a testament to the joy they feel in the presence of their loved ones.
Another family-favorite breed is the Labrador Retriever. Renowned for their playful and patient nature, Labradors are excellent companions for children and adults alike. They readily engage in playtime with the kids, showcasing their boundless energy and enthusiasm. But when the day winds down, they seamlessly transition into loving and gentle cuddle buddies, comforting their family members with their warm presence.
Beyond specific breeds, mixed-breed dogs also have a special place in the hearts of families seeking affectionate companions. The shelter dogs, in particular, form deep connections with their adoptive families. They seem to understand the second chance they’ve been given and repay it with endless love and gratitude.
How To Know If A Dog Is Good With Families
The affectionate nature of family dogs extends beyond play and cuddles. Dogs have a remarkable ability to sense their owner’s emotions, offering comfort and support during difficult times. Whether it’s a wagging tail after a long day at work or a sympathetic nuzzle during moments of sadness, they prove time and again that they are attuned to their family’s needs.
It is important to note that not all dogs of the same breed will be equally affectionate. Some dogs may be more independent or aloof, while others may be more clingy or demanding of attention. The best way to find out how affectionate a dog is is to meet them in person and interact with them.
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Kid-Friendly
Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who’s on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren’t always so family-friendly.
**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they’re not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.
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Dog Friendly
Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they’re love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn’t the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.
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Friendly Toward Strangers
Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash like this one in public!
Health And Grooming Needs
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Amount Of Shedding
If you’re going to share your home with a dog, you’ll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some “blow” seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you’re a neatnik, you’ll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool here!
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Drooling Potential
Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you’ve got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you’re a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.
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Easy To Groom
Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.
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General Health
Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they’re at an increased risk.
If you’re adopting a puppy, it’s a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you’re interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup’s parents and other relatives.
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Potential For Weight Gain
Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that’s prone to packing on pounds, you’ll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.
Ask your vet about your dog’s diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Weight gain can lead to other health issues or worsen problems like arthritis.
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Size
Get ready to meet the giants of the doggy world! Large dog breeds aren’t just big balls of fluff, they’re like loving, oversized teddy bears on a mission to steal your heart. Need some convincing? Let’s dive into the awesome benefits of owning one!
First things first, these pooches are a living security system! With their impressive size and thunderous barks, they’ll have any would-be intruder running for the hills. Talk about peace of mind! Plus, who needs an alarm when you’ve got a furry giant protecting your castle?
But that’s not all. Large dog breeds are all about loyalty and devotion. They’ll stick by your side through thick and thin, becoming your most dedicated bestie. Their love knows no bounds! When you have a giant fluffball showing you unconditional love, you’ll feel like the luckiest human on the planet.
Now, let’s talk about their talents. These big fellas are the ultimate working partners. With brains and brawn, they’re up for any challenge. From search and rescue missions to lending a helping paw to those in need, these dogs are superheroes in fur coats. They’ll make you proud every step of the way!
Don’t let their size fool you—these gentle giants have hearts as big as their paws. They’re incredible with kids and other pets, spreading their love like confetti. Their patience and kindness make them perfect family pets, ensuring harmony in your household.
Oh, and get ready to break a sweat! These dogs are fitness enthusiasts, and they’ll keep you on your toes. Daily walks, jogs, and play sessions will not only keep them happy and healthy but will also give you a reason to ditch the couch and join in on the fun. It’s a win-win situation!
So, if you’re ready for a dose of big love, go ahead and consider a large dog breed. They’re the best wing-dog you could ever ask for, ready to make your life a thousand times more exciting, loving, and downright awesome! Get ready for the big adventure of a lifetime!
Trainability
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Easy To Train
Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word “sit”), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.
Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” attitude, in which case you’ll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests.
Related:
10 Fun, Impressive Tricks You Can Teach Any Dog
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Intelligence
Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don’t get the mental stimulation they need, they’ll make their own work–usually with projects you won’t like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.
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Potential For Mouthiness
Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn’t puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or “herd” their human family members, and they need training to learn that it’s fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that’s been stuffed with kibble and treats.
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Prey Drive
Dogs with a high prey drive have an instinctive desire to stalk, capture, and prey upon potential food sources. Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase — and sometimes kill — other animals. Anything whizzing by — such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars — can trigger that instinct.
How to address a high prey drive
Off-leash adventures are too great a temptation for pups who will wander and hunt. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed. And, even on a leash, you may experience your dog pulling on the leash to reach rodents or birds in their sight. Otherwise, these pups should be kept in a fenced area when outdoors. If your pup has a high prey drive, you’ll need a high, secure fence in your yard.
These breeds generally aren’t a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won’t chase, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.
Other behavioral concerns
Observing your dog’s prey drive, which is instinctual and biologically-rooted, is not the same as observing aggression. Much aggression is born of fear and anxiety, especially in the case of dog aggression toward humans.
The tendency to wander, even into oncoming traffic, can produce diasterious results for pups with predatory instincts. It can also lead to pups being bitten by snakes or attacked by other wild animals they may pursue while on the hunt.
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Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes. Learn more about breeds with a tendency to bark or howl.
If you’re considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you’re considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious “strangers” put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.
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Wanderlust Potential
Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they’ll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses–or that bunny that just ran across the path–even if it means leaving you behind.
Exercise needs
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Energy Level
High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.
Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you’ll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.
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Intensity
A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who’s elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.
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Exercise Needs
Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.
Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.
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Potential For Playfulness
Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.
Bloodhound Overview
When we envision the Bloodhound, various images come to mind, from the baying mantrailers in movies like “Cool Hand Luke” to the sight of a relaxed hound basking in the sun on the front porch of a quaint Southern town home. While the mantrailer portrayal is more accurate, it doesn’t capture the breed’s full essence. The Bloodhound is indeed single-minded when on a trail, but what many may not realize is that once they find their target, they display a gentle and affectionate nature. This wrinkled hound is far from lazy, always preferring to follow a scent trail for miles rather than lounging on the sun porch. If you live with a Bloodhound, be prepared to embark on long walks every day to meet their exercise needs.
The Bloodhound belongs to the Sagaces group of dogs, known for their keen discernment and sound judgment, derived from the Latin word “sagacious.” These qualities are particularly evident in the Bloodhound’s incredible scenting abilities. Originally bred to trail boar and deer in medieval Europe, modern-day Bloodhounds have found important roles as mantrailers for police departments and search and rescue organizations. Their remarkable skills have even made their “testimony” admissible in a court of law.
While they can also be family dogs, caring for a Bloodhound demands a high level of commitment. Not everyone can accommodate the needs of a large dog that slobbers, emits a distinctive houndy odor, possesses boundless energy and endurance, and exhibits a stubborn streak. However, for those who can, they will discover a Bloodhound of great character, known for their kindness, sensitivity, and tolerance towards children and other animals. With the right family, these dogs bring immeasurable joy and laughter to their home.
Bloodhound Highlights
The Bloodhound is a highly active breed, far from the lazy portrayal you might have seen on “The Beverly Hillbillies”. As working dogs, they require long daily walks or runs to stay content and fulfilled.
Apartment living is not suitable for Bloodhounds; they thrive best in a home with a spacious, fenced yard. Being pack dogs, they enjoy the company of other dogs and can tolerate living with a cat.
Bloodhounds are known for their slobbering and shedding, so keeping baby wipes or hand towels handy throughout the house is helpful. Regular brushing is also necessary to manage their shedding.
Although Bloodhounds are loving and patient with children, proper education on how to treat them and supervised playtime is essential. They may be too large for toddlers and accidentally knock them down with their wagging tail.
Due to their strong scenting instincts, a fenced yard is a necessity to prevent them from wandering off on interesting trails, oblivious to traffic and other hazards. Walking them on a leash is also crucial for the same reason.
Their stubborn nature requires an owner who is firm, loving, and consistent in training. Positive reinforcement works well with Bloodhounds. It’s essential to routinely check their ears and keep them clean to prevent recurring infections.
Bloodhounds have a tendency to chew and swallow various items, so careful monitoring of their surroundings is essential to prevent ingestion of harmful objects.
When not tracking scents, Bloodhounds prefer to live indoors with their family, as they are affectionate and devoted companions.
To ensure a healthy dog, it is crucial to avoid purchasing puppies from irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Instead, seek a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and ensures they have sound temperaments.
Bloodhound History
The history of dogs hunting by scent dates back to ancient times, with reports of dogs tracking animals tracing back to the first century AD. However, it was during medieval Europe that these dogs evolved into the scenthound we now recognize as the Bloodhound. The first known reference to the breed by its name “Bloodhound” was in a poem titled William of Palerne by Sir Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereford, in 1350. This depiction described a diligent Bloodhound tracking two lovers disguised as bears. The term “Bloodhound” likely originated from the breed’s noble status, as they were kept by noblemen and abbots, earning them the title of a “blooded” hound.
The early scenthounds were referred to as St. Hubert hounds, bred by the monks of St. Hubert’s Abbey, and they served as the ancestors of today’s Bloodhounds. St. Hubert himself, Francois Hubert, was an avid hunter who dedicated his life to breeding dogs capable of following old or cold trails. He was later canonized and became the patron saint of hunters, and in France, Bloodhounds are still sometimes referred to as St. Hubert hounds. Over the centuries, these hounds thrived and found favor among monarchs and nobles, even being brought to England by William the Conqueror after his invasion in 1066. The breed continued to flourish, especially during Elizabeth I’s reign, where she maintained packs of St. Hubert hounds and Shakespeare mentioned a dog likely referencing the Bloodhound in his play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
However, the French Revolution took a toll on the St. Hubert hounds, with the aristocracy gone and the great hunts no longer prominent. Thankfully, their popularity remained in England, where they were valued not only for their hunting skills but also for their ability to track down wrongdoers. Records of Bloodhounds tracking thieves and poachers date back to 1805, and their reputation was further enhanced during the Victorian era with the rise of dog shows and dogs becoming companions to society. Queen Victoria herself showed interest in the breed, entering one of her Bloodhounds in a dog show in 1869.
While the modern Bloodhound was developed in England, the breed had also made its way to America during colonial times, with even Benjamin Franklin expressing interest in acquiring some Bloodhounds for tracking purposes. Unfortunately, during the Civil War, the breed’s reputation suffered due to its portrayal as vicious beasts in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s antislavery novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin. However, interest in Bloodhounds resurged in 1888 when three English Bloodhounds participated in the Westminster Kennel Club show. Wealthy Americans then began breeding them again, leading to the production of exceptional dogs.
Today, Bloodhounds primarily serve as mantrailers and work in search and rescue operations for law enforcement agencies. Though they are an uncommon breed, ranking 45th among the 155 breeds registered by the American Kennel Club, they continue to showcase their extraordinary scenting abilities and make valuable contributions to various fields of work.
Bloodhound Size
Male Bloodhounds typically have a height range of 25 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 90 to 110 pounds. On the other hand, female Bloodhounds typically measure 23 to 25 inches in height and weigh between 80 to 100 pounds.
Bloodhound Personality
Bloodhounds are gentle and affectionate dogs, making them an excellent choice for families and companions. They are known for their calm and patient nature, and they display remarkable loyalty and devotion to their owners. With their exceptional sense of smell, these highly scent-oriented dogs are outstanding trackers and search and rescue dogs. Although they are generally friendly and good-natured, they can be independent thinkers, so they require consistent and patient training. Due to their strong tracking instincts, they may sometimes get distracted by scents during walks, so leash training is essential. Overall, the Bloodhound’s amiable disposition and incredible tracking abilities make it a unique and valuable addition to any household or working environment.
Temperament in Bloodhounds is influenced by various factors, including genetics, training, and socialization. Puppies with pleasant temperaments are curious, playful, and open to interacting with people. When choosing a puppy, opting for one with a balanced disposition, neither too dominant nor too timid, is advisable. Meeting at least one of the parents, usually the mother, allows you to gauge the temperament you’re comfortable with. Observing siblings or other relatives of the parents can also provide insights into how the puppy may mature.
Early socialization is vital for all Bloodhound puppies. Exposing them to diverse people, environments, and experiences during their formative stages helps shape them into well-rounded adult dogs. Enrolling in a puppy kindergarten class, inviting visitors over, and taking leisurely walks to meet neighbors and encounter different stimuli contribute to a well-adjusted and socially adept Bloodhound.
Bloodhound Health
Bloodhounds, like all breeds, can be susceptible to certain health conditions, although not every individual will develop these diseases. If you’re considering this breed, it’s crucial to be aware of these potential issues and choose a responsible breeder who provides health clearances for both the puppy’s parents.
Here are some common health concerns in Bloodhounds:
- Hip Dysplasia: A hereditary condition where the thighbone doesn’t fit properly into the hip joint, leading to pain and lameness. X-ray screening can detect this condition, and affected dogs should not be used for breeding.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Common in large-breed dogs, this condition results from irregular growth rates of the bones in the elbow joint, causing painful lameness. Treatment may involve surgery or pain management.
- Hypothyroidism: Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to various signs such as infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and skin and coat changes. It can be managed with thyroid replacement medication.
- Ectropion: The outward rolling or sagging of the eyelid, which can cause irritation and infections. Severe cases may require surgical correction.
- Entropion: An eyelid defect where it rolls inward, irritating or injuring the eyeball. Surgical correction may be necessary in severe cases.
- Epilepsy: A seizure disorder that can be hereditary or of unknown cause, and it can be managed with medication.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): A life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dogs, especially those with certain eating habits. Immediate veterinary attention is required if bloat is suspected.
- Fold Dermatitis: A skin infection caused by friction or trapped moisture in skin folds. Proper maintenance and care can help prevent this condition.
When acquiring a Bloodhound puppy, ensure the parents have been tested and cleared of these conditions. Early socialization, proper healthcare, and regular veterinary check-ups can contribute to a healthy and happy Bloodhound companion.
Bloodhound Care
Bloodhounds thrive as indoor/outdoor dogs with plenty of interaction with their human family. They are happiest in homes with large fenced yards, as they are known to be escape artists and require fences at least six feet high. Underground electronic fences are not effective for containing them, as their strong desire to follow scents overrides any momentary shocks.
Walking a Bloodhound can be an arm workout, as they tend to pull strongly on the leash while following their noses. Leash training is essential to prevent them from wandering off in pursuit of interesting smells. These dogs need long daily walks and have impressive endurance, making them great companions for outdoor activities like hiking or jogging. Additionally, Bloodhounds can excel in search and rescue work or tracking tests.
Exercise should be limited for Bloodhound puppies until they reach physical maturity, following the rule of 5 minutes of exercise per month of age. Crate training is highly recommended for keeping them out of trouble and aiding in housetraining.
As adults, Bloodhounds are prone to counter-surfing due to their height, and their long tails can easily clear coffee tables, so it’s essential to keep food and breakables out of reach. They are natural chewers, so providing plenty of chew toys and regular exercise will help prevent destructive behavior.
Training a Bloodhound can be a rewarding but challenging task. They are intelligent yet independent, often adopting a “What’s in it for me?” attitude. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and treats, work best, and training sessions should be kept short and enjoyable.
Remember, with a Bloodhound, it’s best to ask rather than tell. Their cooperation is more likely when approached with patience and gentle guidance rather than harsh punishment.
Bloodhound Feeding
The recommended daily amount of high-quality dry food for a Bloodhound is 4 to 8 cups, divided into two meals. However, it’s important to note that the actual amount your adult dog needs depends on various factors such as size, age, metabolism, and activity level. Just like people, dogs are individuals, and their food requirements can vary significantly. A highly active Bloodhound will need more food than a less active one.
The quality of the dog food also plays a crucial role. Opting for a better-quality dog food means that it will provide more nourishment, requiring less quantity to satisfy your dog’s nutritional needs.
To maintain your Bloodhound’s weight and overall health, measure his food and feed him twice a day instead of leaving food out all the time. If you’re unsure about his weight, you can perform the eye test and hands-on test. Look down at him – there should be a visible waistline. Place your hands on his back with the thumbs along the spine and fingers spread downward – you should be able to feel his ribs without pressing hard. If you can’t, he might need less food and more exercise.
Bloodhounds are known for being messy eaters, especially with their long ears. You may want to use a snood to tuck their ears away before mealtime. It’s also recommended to choose water dishes with a narrow diameter to prevent their ears from dragging in them.
As Bloodhounds are prone to gastric torsion or bloat, be cautious about their feeding routine. Factors like eating a large meal and drinking lots of water immediately after, engaging in heavy exercise before or after meals, using raised feeding dishes, and stress can contribute to bloat. It’s crucial to consider these factors while feeding your Bloodhound.
Bloodhound Coat Color And Grooming
The Bloodhound’s coat is characterized by being loose and thin to the touch. It forms deep folds around the neck and head, especially over the forehead and sides of the face when the head is lowered. These wrinkles, along with the loose, pendulous skin beneath the neck and throat (dewlap) and the long, sweeping ears, serve to funnel scent from the ground up to the Bloodhound’s keen nose and hold it there. The coat colors of Bloodhounds include black and tan, liver and tan, and red. Sometimes, darker colors may be mixed with lighter or badger-colored hair, or flecked with white. Small patches of white may also appear on the chest, feet, and the tail’s tip, known as the stern.
To maintain the Bloodhound’s coat, brushing once a week with a rubber hound mitt is recommended, or more frequently if desired. They shed seasonally, so during that time, a shedding blade can help remove excess hair. It’s important to be gentle as their skin is thin. Regularly cleaning their wrinkles is crucial to prevent bacterial infections. Using a damp washcloth, wipe out the wrinkles and ensure they are thoroughly dried. After meals, the flews (hanging part of the upper lip) should also be cleaned in the same manner.
The Bloodhound’s ears are prone to trapping dirt and breeding yeast and bacteria, making them susceptible to infections. Weekly cleaning with a solution recommended by your veterinarian is essential. Gently massage the liquid into the ear while holding the ear flap up, and then wipe the debris outward from the outer ear canal using a cotton ball. Avoid inserting the cotton ball too far into the ear canal. Repeat the wipedown with a clean cotton ball after letting the dog shake its head. Continue wiping until the cotton ball remains clean. Never use a cotton swab to dig around in the ears, as it can cause damage.
Apart from coat care, Bloodhounds also need dental hygiene and nail care. Brushing their teeth two or three times a week helps prevent tartar buildup and gum disease. Trim their nails once or twice a month to avoid painful tears and other issues. If you’re not experienced in trimming dog nails, seek advice from a vet or groomer.
It’s vital to start grooming your Bloodhound from a young age, handling their paws, mouth, and ears regularly to make it a positive experience. This lays the foundation for easy veterinary exams and other handling as they grow into adults.
Bloodhound Children And Other Pets
Bloodhounds have a natural affinity for children and enjoy their company. However, due to their large size and energetic nature, they can inadvertently knock over a toddler with a swish of their tail. As a result, they are better suited to homes with older children. It is crucial to educate children on how to approach and interact with dogs properly. Always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to avoid any potential incidents, such as biting or pulling on the dog’s ears or tail.
Teaching children not to approach a dog while it’s sleeping or eating and never attempting to take the dog’s food away is essential for safety. It is imperative that no dog is ever left unsupervised with a child.
Generally, Bloodhounds are amiable with other dogs, though some may have reservations around smaller breeds. They usually coexist well with cats, although feline family members may not appreciate the slobbering affections of a Bloodhound.
Bloodhound Rescue Groups
Bloodhounds are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Bloodhounds in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. You can likely find many with a quick internet search. If you don’t see a rescue listed for your area, contact the national breed club or a local breed club and they can point you toward a Bloodhound rescue.
Bloodhound Breed Organizations
Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support.
On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues.
