The Plott hound is a robust yet affectionate dog breed with a strong hunting instinct. Originally bred for boar hunting in the mountains of North Carolina, Plott hounds are athletic, fearless, and make loyal family companions. Read on to learn more about this tenacious hunting hound.
Introduction Plott Hound Dog Breed
The Plott hound originated in the mountains of North Carolina in the 1750s. Legend has it that a German named Johannes Plott brought five Hanoverian Schweisshunds to the region when he immigrated. He bred these dogs to local hounds, producing a distinct new breed adept at hunting bear and wild boar. The Plott family kept the bloodline pure for generations.
Today, the Plott hound is the official state dog of North Carolina. While mainly used for hunting, they also make great family pets. Plotts are pack dogs that bond deeply with their humans. They are athletic, protective, and eager to please. With proper socialization and training, Plotts get along well with children, strangers, and other household pets.
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 And 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: ★★★★
Intensity: ★★★
Exercise Needs: ★★★★
Potential For Playfulness: ★★★
Appearance, Temperament and Facts About the Plott Hound
Appearance – Plotts have a brindle coat that comes in a variety of colors like brown, black, gray, or tan. They have a moderately broad head, drooping ears, and a muscular, athletic build. Their double coat is smooth or glossy. Average height is 20-25 inches and weight ranges from 45 to 60 pounds.
Temperament – Loyal, intelligent, and people-oriented. Plotts form close bonds with their owners. They are natural hunters with strong prey drive. Plotts need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to avoid boredom. They are protective and make good watchdogs. With socialization they get along with kids, strangers and other pets.
The Plott is the only American hound without British ancestry. It’s the official state dog of North Carolina.
Plot Hounds can track bears, wild boars, raccoons, and other big game over rough mountainous terrain. They are athletic with great stamina.
Lifespan is 12-14 years.
Come in a variety of brindle colors like brown, black, buckskin, tan, and gray.
Plotts are purebred dogs, not mixed breeds.
Feeding, Care and Training For Plott Hounds
Food – Plotts need a high-protein diet to fuel their active lifestyle. 2-3 cups of dry kibble per day divided into two meals is typical. Some good food choices include:
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Dry Food – contains real meat as the first ingredient. Provides energy and stamina.
Wellness Core RawRev High Protein Grain-Free Food – features freeze-dried raw meat. Provides nutrients.
Merrick Grain-Free Recipe Dry Food – high in protein with no grains. Keeps muscles lean.
Environment – Plotts need room to run around safely. A large, fenced yard is ideal. Can adapt to apartment living with sufficient daily exercise but may develop destructive behaviors if under-stimulated. Do well in all climates. Need access to cool shade and water in heat.
Grooming – Smooth, short coat requires weekly brushing. Only occasional baths needed. Trim nails monthly. Check ears and teeth regularly.
Training – Intelligent but somewhat stubborn. Positive reinforcement works best. Early socialization is key. Crate training advised. Suitable for advanced owners due to high exercise needs and prey drive.
Health and Equipment Needs
- Hip and elbow dysplasia – hereditary joint issues. Get OFA certification on parent dogs. Maintain lean weight. Joint supplements can help.
- Bloat – potentially fatal stomach condition. Feed smaller meals rather than one large one. Avoid vigorous exercise after eating.
- Allergies – food or environmental. Try elimination diets and medicated shampoos as needed.
- Essential equipment – sturdy leash and collar, dog crates, interactive toys to prevent boredom, dog brush, nail clippers, toothbrush and toothpaste, flea/tick prevention and heartworm medication.
- Recommended vaccines – rabies, parvo, distemper, bordetella. Wellness exams every 1-2 years.
Naming and Adoption
Give your Plott an energetic, outdoorsy name that reflects their hunting background. Some examples: Scout, Blaze, Willow, Bear, Rocky, Hunter, Roscoe.
Check local shelters and breed-specific rescues. Meet the dog prior to adoption. Ask about medical history and temperament.
Buying a Plott Puppy
- Popular in southeast U.S. but can purchase nationwide from reputable breeders.
- Cost ranges from $600 to over $1000.
- Vet reference parents for health clearances. Meet puppy’s mother and littermates.
- Evaluate living conditions. Puppies should seem lively, clean, and well-fed.
Key things to check:
Healthy appearance, shiny coat, clear eyes. Active and socialized. Potty trained. Had first vaccines and deworming. Health guarantee from breeder.
The hardy Plott hound has an independent spirit but bonds deeply to “its” people. Originally bred to fearlessly hunt boar, they need plenty of activity and mental stimulation. Their protective nature makes them excellent watchdogs. With proper training and socialization, Plotts can thrive as robust family companions.
How to stop Plott hound bitting?
Consistent training. Redirect to chew toys. Adjust exercise.
How to do Socialisation and Raising Friendly for Plott hound?
Introduce to wide variety of people, places, animals early on. Reward calm behavior.
How to train your Plott hound?
Positive reinforcement. Firm, confident leadership. Challenging breed that needs an experienced owner.
How long should we check for Plott hound’s health with vet?
Annual exams. Take concerns seriously like limping, appetite issues.
Are Plott hound good family pets?
Yes, devoted to their people. Supervise with very small kids.
Are Plott hound dogs good with children?
Plott hounds can make great family dogs and are generally good with children thanks to their loyal, affectionate nature. However, like any breed, Plotts should be supervised around very young kids since their high energy could accidentally knock over a small child. Socialization from a young age is key to ensuring a Plott develops a tolerant, gentle temperament around children.
Are Plott hound dogs good with other animals?
Can be. Early socialization is key. Strong prey drive.
Is a Plott hound a Smart?
Yes, work-oriented and highly intelligent. Keen problem solving abilities.
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.
