Redbone Coonhound Puppies

Photo of Redbone Coonhound

A gentle, laid-back, and loving breed

Redbone Coonhounds were originally bred for hunting, but have evolved into calm and even-tempered family dogs. They love spending quality time with their family, whether it be exercising or relaxing on the couch.


Redbone Coonhound At a Glance

Photo of Redbone Coonhound Photo of Redbone Coonhound Photo of Redbone Coonhound Photo of Redbone Coonhound

Redbone Coonhound At a Glance

  • Size: 21"-27", 45-70 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 12-15 years
  • Energy Level: high
  • Coat: Short, smooth, and shiny
  • Shedding: light
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Hound
  • Common Nicknames:

Redbone Coonhound Breed Guide

Learn More About Redbone Coonhounds

  • Temperament

    The Redbone Coonhound is a very laid-back, even-tempered dog with a pleasant disposition. While energetic outside, these dogs are typically good house dogs and enjoy being by their family's side. In general, Redbones do well with children and strangers, and they can get along with other dogs or pets if they are raised with them. Redbone Coonhounds are fairly easy to train and handle. They are eager to please but can have a short attention span, so it's best to keep training sessions short and interesting. A Redbone's passion is following a good scent, so they will need plenty of time outdoors, either in a securely fenced yard or on an on-leash walk.

  • Health

    Redbone Coonhounds have very few health issues, but can be prone to a few hereditary issues. They have been known to have issues with Hip Dysplasia, and their floppy ears can be susceptible to ear infections if not cleaned regularly.

  • Activity Level

    Redbone Coonhounds' exercise needs are unique in that they often spend their time lounging or in intense exercise. They make great companions for families who enjoy hiking, running, and biking. They should always be leashed during these activities to prevent their hunting instincts from causing them to wander. Don't let the lounging coon hounds in Hollywood fool you, Redbone Coonhounds require lots of physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

  • Grooming

    This breed's short and smooth coat should be brushed weekly to keep its shine and to reduce shedding. Many hounds have a distinctive smell and should be bathed regularly to keep them smelling fresh. Their floppy ears should be cleaned regularly and kept dry to avoid infection.

  • Shedding

    Redbone Coonhounds shed very lightly year-round, but are not hypoallergenic. Weekly brushing can minimize shedding while keeping their coat looking its best.

  • Appearance

    Redbone Coonhounds are muscular, medium-sized dogs best known for their distinctive red mahogany coat. This coat is silky and smooth and should be brushed weekly. Their round hazel eyes give the cute expression of pleading, and their floppy ears frame out their long muzzle.

  • History

    The Redbone Coonhound is an American-made breed that descends from Foxhounds and Bloodhounds. The breed's development can be mostly credited to one man: George Birdsong, a Georgia-based dog breeder and foxhunter. Birdsong began to breed Redbone Coonhounds during the 1840s. After some time, others became interested in the breed and began to join in, attempting to create an even faster scenthound by breeding the existing dogs with Red Irish Foxhounds. The earlier versions of the breed were often called Saddlebacks because of the black "saddle" that many of the dogs had on their backs. However, this "saddle" eventually disappeared, as breeders started to aim for a solid red-colored coat. The breed became known as the Redbone Coonhound. While recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1902, the Redbone Coonhound wasn't registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) until 2010.