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Hound Handbook
Insurance guide
Breed profile

American English Coonhound

A fast, ticked American scent hound bred for night hunting. Sweet at home, tireless and very vocal on a trail.

Weight
23–32 kg51–71 lb
Height
53–69 cm21–27 in
Lifespan
11–12 yrs
Group
Hound
Origin
United States
Popularity
#182 USNot ranked in UK · 2025

Known for: Running partnersWorking dogsLow grooming

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Friendly, Tireless, Determined, Vocal.

Health problems to know about

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Bloat (GDV)
  • Ear infections

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

Hard daily exercise on lead or in a secure area; this dog does not know when to quit, so watch for overheating. Weekly brushing and ear checks.

A good fit for

Hunters, runners, rural homes with space, families with older children.

Probably not ideal for

Flats, close neighbours, homes with cats, people who want off-lead walks.

Sources

  1. VCA Animal Hospitals: American English Coonhound
  2. Wikipedia: American English Coonhound

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

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