Bloodhound - Appearance & Grooming
Dog Breeds
Introduction
Appearance & Grooming of the Bloodhound Dog Breed: Bloodhounds are large, standing between 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 80 and 110 pounds. Their droopy coat requires regular brushing with a hound mitt and regular cleaning of the skin folds to prevent infection.
Read More >
Appearance
Bloodhounds are large, powerful dogs with large heads, long muzzles and large, drooping ears. Their thin, loose coats hang in distinctive folds around the head and neck. This loose, wrinkled coat and their deep set eyes and drooping jowls give them a sad looking face that can melt even the hardest of hearts. Bloodhounds' eyes compliment the color of the coat and come in shades from brown to yellow. Bloodhounds come in black and tan, liver and tan, or red. There may be a small amount of white that appears at the feet, chest or tail tip.
Size and Weight
Bloodhounds are large dogs, standing between 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 80 and 110 pounds. Females, at maturity, are slightly smaller than their male counterparts. Bloodhounds appear to “swing” as they walk, giving them a very distinctive gait.
Coat and Color
The feature that makes the Bloodhound recognizable is his loose, droopy, thin coat that hangs in folds around the neck and head. These wrinkles are actually functional - when the dog drops his face to the ground to catch and track a scent, the folds hang down and help funnel the scent toward the nose.
Bloodhounds come in black and tan, liver and tan, or red. There may be a small amount of white that appears at the feet, chest or tail tip.
Grooming Needs
Bloodhounds require a lot of grooming to remain healthy. They shed lightly throughout the year, and heavier during the change in season. Weekly brushing can keep shedding under control. A hound mitt is recommended for brushing, as this breed has thin skin and requires a gentle touch.
The folds of the Bloodhound's skin should be wiped out daily with a damp cloth in order to prevent bacterial infections. Don't forget to dry afterward. The flews – the part of the upper lip that hangs – also need to be wiped out after mealtime.
Bloodhounds are very prone to ear infections, thanks to their heavy, dropped ears which allow for virtually no air circulation. Use a veterinarian-recommended cleaning solution every week to make sure harmful bacteria does not build up. They are also prone to bad breath and rotting teeth, so daily or weekly brushing of the teeth is required.
Pictures
Temperament & Personality