The Bloodhound is a large scent hound recognized for its strong tracking ability, hanging folds of skin, and long drooping ears. Originally bred to trail animals and humans, these dogs make loyal companions despite their independent nature.
Introduction the Bloodhound Dog Breed
The Bloodhound originated in medieval France where they were used as scent hounds to track deer and other game as well as fugitives. Their exceptional sense of smell and determination soon had them trailing criminals for law enforcement. Bloodhounds were recognized by the AKC in 1885. Today they are prized as pets, show dogs, and working dogs assisting in search and rescue.
Adaptability:
Adapts Well to Apartment Living: 🌟
Good for Novice Owners: 🌟
Sensitivity Level: 🌟🌟🌟
Tolerates Being Alone: 🌟🌟
Tolerates Cold Weather: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Tolerates Hot Weather: 🌟🌟
All-Around Friendliness:
Affectionate with Family: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Kid Friendly: 🌟🌟🌟
Dog Friendly: 🌟🌟
Friendly Toward Strangers: 🌟🌟
Health & Grooming Needs:
Amount of Shedding: 🌟🌟🌟
Drooling Potential: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Easy to Groom: 🌟
General Health: 🌟🌟
Potential for Weight Gain: 🌟🌟🌟
Size: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Trainability:
Easy to Train: 🌟🌟
Intelligence: 🌟🌟🌟
Potential for Mouthiness: 🌟🌟🌟
Prey Drive: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Tendency to Bark or Howl: 🌟🌟
Wanderlust Potential: 🌟🌟🌟
Exercise Needs:
Energy Level: 🌟🌟
Exercise Needs: 🌟🌟
Intensity: 🌟🌟
Potential for Playfulness: 🌟🌟
- Appearance: Large, heavy wrinkled head, droopy eyes, long ears, powerful build
- Characteristics: Determined, intelligent, even-tempered, strong tracking instinct
- Popularity: Ranks 51st most popular breed by AKC
- Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, reserved with strangers, independent
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
- Coat: Short, dense coat in red, mahogany, black, tan
- Original Breed: Not mixed
Caring for a Bloodhound
Food:
- High quality commercial dog food
- Mix in canned food for flavor
- Avoid overfeeding
Environment:
- Access to large fenced yard
- Lots of chew toys
- Cool shaded place to rest
Grooming:
- Brush coat weekly
- Clean ears and wrinkles often
- Trim nails monthly
- Bathe when dirty
Happiness: Daily outdoor time. Positive training. Affection and companionship.
Preparing for a Bloodhound
- Bloodhounds require regular exercise but apartment life is difficult. Securely fenced yard is ideal.
- Their strong tracking instinct means they will wander. Always leash walk and secure yard.
- Stock up on chew toys to satisfy their urge to use their mouth.
- Invest in a good vacuum to manage shedding.
- Locate a groomer to help with coat care.
Essential equipment:
- 6 foot leash and collar or harness
- Brush and ear cleaner
- Interactive chew toys
Health issues:
- Gastric dilatation volvulus – don’t allow vigorous exercise before/after meals
- Joint dysplasia – provide joint supplements
- Skin fold infections – clean folds often
Vaccines:
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Parvo
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme
Bloodhound Names
Bloodhound names often relate to their amazing scent tracking ability or wrinkled appearance. Some examples are Sniffer, Wrinkles, Detective, Badge,Tracker, Droopy, or fold related terms like Sharpei.
Other fun name ideas:
- Food inspired – Meatball, Pancake, Sausage
- Old man style names – Walter, Otis, Virgil
- Scent related – Smeller, Snout, Hound
Finding a Bloodhound
- Popular in US, UK, and France
- $1,200 – $1,500 USD from quality breeder
- Check adoption sites like Bloodhounds Available for Adoption
Before adoption:
- Vet physical exam
- Confirm deworming and vaccinations done
- Review vet provided health clearances
Rescue groups:
- National Bloodhound Rescue Network
- Long Ears Rescue League
How to stop biting?
Say NO firmly and redirect biting onto chew toys. Praise when they chew toys.
Socialization tips?
Introduce to new sights, sounds, people, and dogs starting as a puppy. Reward calm behavior.
Best training methods?
Positive reinforcement like food rewards work best. Avoid punishment.
Vet visit frequency?
Annual exams plus if any health concerns arise.
Good family pet?
Yes, when exercised sufficiently and supervised with very young kids.
Good with kids?
Yes, though their size means supervision is still important. Gentle when properly socialized.
Good with other pets?
Can be with socialization, but caution is needed due to high prey drive.
Are they smart?
Yes, the Bloodhound is intelligent and can be trained with patience and persistence.
By following our website, you can find the perfect dog breeds for you and provide them with the best possible dog care. Remember that owning a dog is a lifelong commitment that requires time, money, and patience. But it is also a rewarding experience that will bring you joy and companionship. All information in Dog care tips.
