Treeing Walker Coonhound
Also known as: Treeing Walker, Walker Coonhound
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
50-70 lbs
Height (Male)
22-27 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a fast, energetic American scenthound known for their competitive spirit, endurance, and excellent treeing ability. Friendly and sociable, they are beloved hunting companions and affectionate family dogs.
History
Developed from Walker Foxhounds in the 19th century, the Treeing Walker Coonhound gained its own identity when a stolen dog named "Tennessee Lead" was crossed into the line, producing superior trailing and treeing ability. AKC recognized in 2012.
Appearance
A sleek, athletic hound with a smooth, tri-colored or bi-colored coat. Clean-cut features, large expressive eyes, and long ears. Their build is lighter and faster than most coonhound breeds.
Temperament
Energetic, competitive, and friendly, the Treeing Walker Coonhound is driven in the field and loving at home. They are social, outgoing dogs that enjoy being part of family activities.
Personality Around Others
Extremely friendly and outgoing. Excellent with children and other dogs. Sociable with strangers. Their pack heritage makes them companionable and social.
Exercise Needs
Very high exercise needs. Built for speed and endurance. At least 1-2 hours of vigorous daily exercise. Excellent hiking and running companions. They need mental stimulation too.
Training
Moderately trainable. Food-motivated and respond to positive reinforcement. Can be distracted by scents. Recall training is essential but challenging. Start training early.
Grooming
Very low-maintenance coat. Weekly brushing and occasional baths. Regular ear cleaning is important. Simple grooming routine.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Generally a healthy, hardy breed. Ear care is important due to their long ears. Polyradiculoneuritis (coonhound paralysis) is a breed concern.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$700-$1,300
Nutrition
Active dogs needing quality, protein-rich food. Two meals daily. Adjust for activity level. They are food-motivated which helps with training but requires portion control.
Living Environment
Best in rural or suburban homes with large yards. Not suited for apartments. Secure fencing is essential. Their vocal nature may concern close neighbors.
Ideal Family
Great for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. Excellent with children. Perfect for hunting enthusiasts and active individuals. Not suited for sedentary households.
Intelligence
Intelligent and competitive. They excel in the field and learn quickly when motivated. Can be distracted by interesting scents.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Known for their loud, distinctive baying voice. Very 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.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
The breed traces back to a single dog named "Tennessee Lead" in the 1850s
They are considered the fastest of all coonhound breeds
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are the most popular coonhound breed in America
They are named for their ability to "tree" game—chase it up a tree and bay until the hunter arrives
Famous Dogs
Tennessee Lead
The legendary stolen dog whose bloodline revolutionized the Treeing Walker breed in the 1850s
Common Myths
"They can only be hunting dogs"
They make excellent family pets when given adequate exercise and companionship
"They are hyperactive"
While energetic, they can be calm and relaxed at home when properly exercised
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Treeing Walker Coonhounds good family dogs?
Excellent family dogs—friendly, sociable, and great with children. They need active families who can provide ample exercise.
How fast are they?
They are considered the fastest coonhound breed, with impressive speed and agility on the trail.
Puppy Guide
Energetic puppies that need early socialization and training. Provide plenty of outlets for their energy. Crate training helps with house training.
Senior Care
Senior Treeing Walkers may slow down but remain friendly and sociable. Monitor for joint issues. Continue moderate daily exercise. Keep ears clean.
Similar Breeds
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$13,000-$19,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Friendly and sociable
Excellent with children and dogs
Low grooming needs
Fast and athletic
Cons
Very high exercise needs
Loud baying voice
Strong scent drive
Not apartment-friendly