Redbone Coonhound
Also known as: Redbone
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
45-70 lbs
Height (Male)
22-27 inches

Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Redbone Coonhound is a striking, solid-red scenthound known for their versatile hunting ability, melodious voice, and easygoing temperament. These handsome, people-loving hounds are equally at home on the trail and on the family couch.
History
Developed in the American South from red foxhounds brought from Scotland and Ireland. The breed was perfected for raccoon hunting and tracking. One of six AKC coonhound breeds. AKC recognized in 2009.
Appearance
A sleek, well-muscled hound with a distinctive solid red coat. Soulful, pleading eyes and long, velvety ears. Their athletic build combines speed, agility, and endurance.
Temperament
The most easygoing and people-oriented of the coonhound breeds. Redbones are affectionate, mellow, and eager to please. They love their families deeply and are happiest when included in family activities.
Personality Around Others
Extremely friendly and sociable. They adore people and get along well with dogs and children. Less reserved with strangers than some hound breeds. Gentle and patient.
Exercise Needs
Moderate to high exercise needs. Daily walks and opportunities to sniff and explore. They enjoy hiking and outdoor activities. Less intense exercise needs than some coonhound breeds.
Training
The most trainable of the coonhound breeds. Eager to please and food-motivated. Positive reinforcement works excellently. Consistent training yields good results.
Grooming
Very low-maintenance coat. Weekly brushing and occasional baths. Regular ear cleaning. Simple, easy grooming routine.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Generally healthy breed. Ear infections are common due to pendulous ears. Bloat can occur in deep-chested individuals. Regular checkups are recommended.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$700-$1,300
Nutrition
Active dogs needing quality food. Two meals daily. Redbones love food and can become overweight if portions aren't monitored. Adjust for activity level.
Living Environment
Best with a house and yard. Can adapt to suburban living with adequate exercise. Their vocal nature and exercise needs make apartment living challenging.
Ideal Family
Excellent family dogs for active households. Outstanding with children. Great for multi-dog homes. Perfect for owners who enjoy outdoor activities with their dogs.
Intelligence
Intelligent and willing to learn. More eager to please than many hound breeds. They excel at scent work and can be trained for various activities.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Melodious baying voice that is characteristic of the breed. They are vocal on the trail and can bay when excited. Training helps manage indoor vocalization.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Moderate shedding year-round. Weekly brushing manages loose hair effectively.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
The Redbone Coonhound is the breed featured in "Where the Red Fern Grows"
They are named for early breeder Peter Redbone of Tennessee
Redbones are considered the most versatile of all coonhound breeds
Their solid red color is unusual among hound breeds
Famous Dogs
Old Dan and Little Ann
The beloved Redbone Coonhounds from Wilson Rawls' classic novel "Where the Red Fern Grows"
Common Myths
"They are only for experienced hunters"
They are one of the most adaptable and family-friendly coonhound breeds
"Their baying can't be controlled"
With training and exercise, they can be relatively quiet indoors
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Redbone Coonhounds good family dogs?
Among the best. They are affectionate, gentle, patient with children, and eager to please.
How much exercise do they need?
About an hour of daily exercise including walks, hikes, or play sessions. They also need mental stimulation.
Puppy Guide
Puppies are friendly and outgoing. Early socialization and training set the foundation for a well-behaved adult. They respond well to positive reinforcement.
Senior Care
Senior Redbones remain affectionate and mellow. Monitor for joint issues and weight gain. Continue moderate daily walks. Regular ear cleaning remains important.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$13,000-$19,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Extremely affectionate and loyal
Excellent with children
Easy to groom
Good with other dogs
Cons
Loud baying voice
Need significant exercise
Can follow scents and wander
Not apartment-friendly
