Bloodhound

The Bloodhound, much like a dedicated athlete, is strong and designed for lasting performance rather than quick bursts of speed. Its skin is thin and loose, creating noticeable folds around its head and neck. The long ears help gather scents while tracking, and the wrinkles are thought to hold onto the smells they pursue, though this idea hasn’t been confirmed by science. With a short, thick coat, they are shielded from thorns, and they possess a calm and dignified nature.

Quick Info

Size

Large

Colours

Black and tan, liver and tan, and red

Lifespan

10 to 12 years

Height

23 to 27 inches

Type

Scenthound

Hypoallergenic

Weight

80 to 90 pounds

Family

Personality

Bloodhounds make great pets at home, being calm and friendly. However, once they catch a scent, they become incredibly driven and focused. These dogs are strong-willed and self-reliant, yet they can also be kind, easygoing, and reliable, particularly with kids. Some children might find them a bit too serious and not very playful. Far from being lazy, Bloodhounds are energetic and hardworking by nature. They may not be the simplest dogs to train for following commands, but they enthusiastically learn tracking tasks.

History

In the 7th century, the dogs known as St. Hubert’s Hounds were trained to hunt wolves, large cats, and deer. William the Conqueror introduced the Bloodhound to Britain. The name "Bloodhound" comes from their noble and pure lineage.

Ideal Owner

People who own Bloodhounds should be ready for plenty of drooling and should preferably have experience with scent hounds. These dogs cannot be left by themselves and need frequent exercise and mental challenges. They are not picky about the weather, so owners must be willing to go outside and stay active in any conditions.

Exercise Needs

Similar to an Olympic competitor, Bloodhounds have remarkable endurance and prefer to get their daily exercise through sniffing around rather than just walking on a leash.

Space Requirements

Large dogs, such as Bloodhounds, require plenty of room to explore and smell their surroundings, making suburban and country settings ideal for them.

Training

Bloodhounds are mainly focused on scent activities, so any training that doesn't engage their excellent sense of smell may not capture their attention. It's important to teach them how to walk or run while wearing a harness or leash, but they might not be eager to do this. Engaging them in scent work and sniffing games will allow them to showcase their skills.

Grooming

The Bloodhound has a short and sleek coat that doesn't need much upkeep. Brushing it occasionally can help get rid of loose fur, and it's important to regularly check their eyes and ears.

Suitability for Family Life

Kind and tolerant, Bloodhounds are great pets for families with older kids. They might be a bit too large and a little awkward for very young children.

Did You know?

In 1977, James Earl Ray, who killed Martin Luther King, broke out of prison. A group of Bloodhounds found him days later in the Tennessee mountains. One of the best Bloodhounds for catching criminals came from Kentucky. This dog helped catch more than 600 runaways, and in one instance, it followed a scent for 138 miles over 104 hours. In several states, the proof provided by a Bloodhound in court is accepted without question.