Redbone Coonhound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Redbone Coonhound is a sleek, red-coated American scent hound known for its mellow, affectionate temperament and strong nose. It was bred to trail raccoons and larger game, and it is a gentle companion with an independent streak.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in the southern United States from red Foxhound-type dogs. Redbones are medium-large and athletic, with a long head, long drop ears, a short, smooth coat in solid red and a strong tail. Some have a small white patch on the chest.

Temperament

They are mellow, affectionate and friendly. They are usually good with children and other dogs. They are independent and persistent when on a scent. They can be vocal. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, with walks, hiking and sniffing. Many enjoy swimming. Secure fencing is essential, since they follow scents and can climb or dig.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. 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
• Obesity. See obesity risks in dogs
• Hypothyroidism

Living with a Redbone Coonhound

They suit active families with a secure yard and tolerance for baying. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to apartments or long hours alone.

A typical day

A Redbone wants a morning walk or hike, a long nap, family time and an evening sniffing walk. Many are calm indoors.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are clumsy 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 heat better than many hounds because of the short coat, but feel the cold. Provide shade, water and a coat when needed. They travel well with a sturdy crate or harness.

Common mistakes

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

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, the parents' temperaments and working or companion lines. Meet the parents and see how they live.

A swimmer and climber

Redbones are known for crossing rivers and rough country during hunts. Many enjoy swimming, and some can scale fences. Check fences for gaps and height, and supervise swims.

Mellow at home

Compared with some other coonhounds, many Redbones are mellow indoors and sociable with visitors. They can still be stubborn outdoors, so a long line and a sturdy harness are wise.

Daily care checklist

• A long walk with time to sniff.
• Ear checks and cleaning as advised.
• Weekly brushing.
• Measured meals to avoid weight gain.
• Company and a soft bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Redbone suits easygoing, active owners who want a mellow scent hound and accept baying and independence. It may not suit apartments or those wanting an off-lead dog. For a similar hound, see the Black and Tan Coonhound.

The takeaway

Redbone Coonhounds are mellow, red and scent-driven, and they need exercise, secure fencing and patience.