At a glance
Basic requirements and commitment level
Daily requirements
Context & compatibility
Is this right for you?
Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well
A good match
- Enjoy long outdoor time with scent-led exploring
- Are comfortable with a strong voice as part of the package
Not ideal
- Prefer dependable off-leash reliability as a default
- Need quiet living with close neighbors and thin walls
Care & health
Setup, routines, and health considerations
Care overview
Big, friendly, and wonderfully dramatic—often mellow indoors but extremely committed to scent outdoors. Many are vocal and will “announce” what they discovered.
Environment & space
Best where noise tolerance is realistic and there’s room for a large, strong hound body and big tail energy.
Daily routine
Longer sniff-heavy outings, nosework-style games, and consistent leash habits—especially around distractions that trigger tracking mode.
Health sensitivities
Ear care, weight stability, and long-term joint comfort are common priorities; deep-chested planning often includes bloat awareness.
Grooming / coat
Low-effort coat care; ears and general hygiene matter more than brushing.
Background
Origins and how that history shapes what you see today
Origin region
United States
Background
Developed in the U.S. during the 1800s for trailing and treeing raccoons, this breed was built to work at night and then call the hunter in with a deep bay. The sound carries for a reason. Today, they’re often steady and affectionate, but they can be very “single-track mind” once a scent trail gets interesting.
Social & behavior
Temperament and interaction style
Personality & activity
Warm, steady, and scent-committed—often mellow at home after exercise, very single-minded outside. Their “follow-through” is a core trait.
Handling & social style
Social with people, tougher to redirect mid-scent. Handling improves when check-ins and leash structure are practiced early.