Bluetick Coonhound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Bluetick Coonhound is an American scent hound known for its mottled blue-and-black coat, tan markings and loud, bawling voice. It was bred to trail raccoons and larger game, and it is energetic, determined and affectionate.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in the United States, largely in the South, from French hounds and Foxhound-type dogs. Blueticks are medium-large and athletic, with a long head, long drop ears, a short, glossy coat with blue ticking and tan points and a strong tail.

Temperament

They are affectionate, energetic and persistent. They are usually good with children and other dogs. They are independent and stubborn. They can be vocal. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, with running, hiking and sniffing. Secure fencing is essential, since they follow scents and can climb or dig. Mental work matters.

Training

They are intelligent but determined. Use positive methods, patience and food rewards. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Early socialization helps. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing. Clean the ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Hereditary conditions, including some neurological disorders
• Skin issues. See dog skin allergies

Living with a Bluetick Coonhound

They suit active families, hunters and outdoor lovers with a secure yard. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to apartments or long hours alone.

A typical day

A Bluetick wants a long morning outing, a rest, play and an evening sniffing walk. Many are calm indoors once exercised.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and curious. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, vet care and secure fencing. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well with a sturdy crate or harness.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting the dog off lead, underexercising, leaving the dog alone and neglecting the ears.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, hereditary conditions and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live.

A hunting hound's drive

Blueticks are bred for speed and stamina on a trail. Pet Blueticks may sprint after squirrels, bay at passing animals and track scents across fields. Daily outlets keep the drive manageable.

The mottled coat

The blue effect comes from black ticking over white. Puppies are born mostly white and develop their color over the first weeks. Coats are low-maintenance, but check for ticks and burrs after outings.

Daily care checklist

• A long outing with room to run in a secure area.
• Scent games or tracking.
• Ear checks and brushing.
• Measured meals.
• Company and a soft bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Bluetick suits active owners who want an energetic, vocal scent hound and can provide exercise and secure fencing. It may not suit apartments or quiet homes. For another coonhound, see the Redbone Coonhound.

Choosing between lines

Some Blueticks come from hunting kennels, others from companion or show breeders. Hunting lines may have more drive and voice, while companion lines are often calmer. Ask about the dogs' daily lives, how they behave with visitors and how breeders handle puppies in the first weeks.

Noise and neighbors

The Bluetick's bawling bay carries a long way. Before bringing one home, think about neighbors and housing rules. Exercise, mental work and company reduce boredom barking, but you should expect some voice from this breed.

The takeaway

Blueticks are energetic, vocal and scent-driven, and they need exercise, secure fencing and patience.