Redbone Coonhound
Updated December 2, 2025
The Redbone Coonhound is a versatile, medium-sized hound with a history rooted in American hunting traditions. They are celebrated for their beautiful red coat, powerful scenting ability, and sure-footedness on any terrain. While they are serious, determined hunters, they are also cherished as friendly, loyal, and gentle family companions who thrive on being with their people.
Friendly, Energetic, Even-tempered, Loyal, Eager to please
45-70 pounds
21-27 inches
10-12 years
Solid Red, Red with some white markings
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Redbone Coonhound
The Redbone Coonhound is a versatile, medium-sized hound with a history rooted in American hunting traditions. They are celebrated for their beautiful red coat, powerful scenting ability, and sure-footedness on any terrain. While they are serious, determined hunters, they are also cherished as friendly, loyal, and gentle family companions who thrive on being with their people.
What Makes Redbone Coonhounds Special
The Redbone Coonhound is a quintessential American hound: rugged, tireless, and driven in the field, yet a mellow and affectionate companion at home. They possess a stunning, solid red coat that sets them apart.
Known for their musical bay and incredible scenting ability, they are born hunters. However, with enough exercise, they are content to be relaxed members of the family, known for their loyalty and gentle nature.
Redbone Coonhound History & Origin
The Redbone Coonhound was developed in the United States during the late 18th and early 19th centuries by Southern hunters. They were selectively bred from red foxhounds and bloodhounds, with an emphasis on creating a swift, agile, and 'cold-nosed' hunter that could track and tree raccoons and larger game like cougars and bears. The breed's name is thought to come from an early breeder, Peter Redbone of Tennessee.
The breed's ancestors include red-colored foxhounds brought to America by Scottish immigrants.
Breeders aimed for a dog with a solid, flashy red coat that was fast and could work on difficult terrain and in water.
The Redbone Coonhound was the second coonhound breed to be recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which it did in 2009.
They gained popular recognition through the classic 1961 novel 'Where the Red Fern Grows' by Wilson Rawls.
Redbone Coonhound Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Redbone Coonhound Appearance
The Redbone Coonhound has a striking appearance, with a sleek, muscular body built for speed and endurance. Their deep red coat is their most famous feature.
They carry themselves with a confident and proud air, with a pleading expression in their eyes that charms many.
Physical Features
Ears
Long, floppy ears are set low on the head and hang gracefully.
Eyes
Their eyes are typically dark brown or hazel and have a round, gentle, and pleading look.
Nose
The nose is always black, with wide nostrils that are perfect for scenting.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is short and smooth, providing good protection without requiring much maintenance.
Coat Color
The standard color is a rich, solid red. Small amounts of white on the chest and feet are permissible but not preferred.
Tail
A medium-length tail that is set as a natural extension of the topline, carried freely and slightly curved like a saber.
Redbone Coonhound Temperament
Redbone Coonhounds are known for their dual personality: a determined and tireless hunter in the field, and a gentle, laid-back companion at home. They are generally happy, affectionate dogs who form strong bonds with their families.
Their even-tempered and eager-to-please nature makes them amenable to training, though their strong hunting instincts can sometimes lead to a one-track mind when they catch an interesting scent. Early and consistent training is key to managing their independent streak.
Redbones are sociable dogs that generally get along well with people and other dogs. They can be good with children, being both playful and patient. However, due to their energy, interactions with small children should always be supervised.
Their history as pack hunters means they are typically not aggressive towards other canines. However, their strong prey drive means they may see smaller animals, including cats, as quarry unless they are raised with them from a young age and properly socialized.
They are known for their distinctive, melodious bay, which they use to communicate. While endearing to some, it's a trait potential owners should be aware of, especially in more urban environments.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Redbone Coonhounds are generally a healthy and robust breed with a life expectancy of 10-12 years. Responsible breeders screen their stock for common health conditions. Being aware of potential health issues can help you provide the best care for your dog.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, ample exercise, routine ear cleaning, and dental hygiene are key to a long, healthy life.
How to Care for a Redbone Coonhound
The Redbone Coonhound is an athletic and energetic breed that requires significant exercise but is relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming. They are intelligent and eager to please but have a strong-willed nature that requires consistent training.
Grooming
The Redbone Coonhound's short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming. A weekly brushing with a hound mitt or rubber curry brush is usually sufficient to remove loose hair and keep the coat shiny.
They are average shedders. Baths are only needed occasionally, or when they get particularly dirty.
Like other hounds with long, floppy ears, Redbones are prone to ear infections. Their ears should be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent buildup of wax and debris.
Regular nail trims and dental care are also important for their overall health.
Training
Redbone Coonhounds are intelligent and can be a pleasure to train, but they possess an independent streak typical of hounds. They are driven by their nose, and once on a scent, it can be difficult to get their attention.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended. Training sessions should be kept short, engaging, and fun, utilizing positive reinforcement techniques with treats and praise.
Consistency is crucial. They need a firm but patient owner who can establish clear leadership. Training a reliable recall command is especially important for this breed.
Diet
A high-quality dog food appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, senior) and high energy level is recommended. The amount will vary based on size, age, and activity level, but typically ranges from 2 to 3 cups of dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Monitor your dog's weight and body condition, as they can be prone to obesity if overfed and under-exercised.
Always provide access to fresh, clean water.
Exercise
This is a high-energy breed that requires a great deal of exercise to stay happy and healthy. A Redbone needs at least an hour of vigorous activity each day.
They make excellent jogging, hiking, and swimming companions. Their webbed feet make them particularly strong swimmers.
It's crucial to exercise them in a securely fenced area or on a leash, as their powerful nose will lead them to wander off in pursuit of a scent.
In addition to physical exercise, they need mental stimulation. Scent work, tracking games, and puzzle toys can help keep their sharp minds engaged.
Environment
Redbone Coonhounds are not well-suited for apartment living due to their high energy levels and tendency to bay. They thrive in a home with a large, securely fenced yard where they can run.
They are adaptable to various climates but should be monitored in extreme heat due to their susceptibility to overheating. They appreciate a soft bed and the comforts of being indoors with their family after a day of activity.
Their social nature means they do best in a home where they are an integral part of the family and not left alone for long periods.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Best suited for a home with a large, securely fenced yard.
Climate Adaptability
Adaptable to most climates but needs protection from extreme heat.
Apartment Living
Not recommended due to their energy and vocal tendencies.
Best Suited For
Ideal for active owners or families who love the outdoors and have experience with hounds.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Redbone Coonhounds good family dogs?
Yes, Redbone Coonhounds are generally excellent family dogs. They are known for being gentle and patient with children and forming strong, loyal bonds with their families.
Do Redbone Coonhounds bark a lot?
Yes, they can be quite vocal. They are known for their distinctive baying and howling, which is a natural part of their hound heritage. This is a consideration for those living in close proximity to neighbors.
How much exercise do Redbone Coonhounds need?
They are a high-energy breed needing at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day. They are great partners for running, hiking, and swimming.
Are Redbone Coonhounds good with other pets?
They are typically good with other dogs. However, they have a strong prey drive and may chase cats or other small animals unless raised with them from puppyhood and properly trained.
How hard are Redbone Coonhounds to train?
They are intelligent and eager to please but have an independent streak. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Their powerful nose can be a major distraction.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization with many people and animals is crucial. Crate training is recommended. Start recall training early.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their ability to avoid joint stress. Monitor for weight gain. Regular vet check-ups are important to catch age-related issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
Can be a challenging choice for first-time owners due to their high energy, training needs, and independent nature.
Looking for a Redbone Coonhound?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.