Treeing Walker Coonhound - Overview and History
Dog Breeds
The Treeing Walker Coonhound, also known as the English Coonhound, descends from the English Foxhound but is slightly lighter and swifter. Today’s Treeing Walker Coonhound is still used for its original purpose, which is to hunt and tree raccoons and opossums, especially at night.
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Introduction
The Treeing Walker Coonhound, also known as the English Coonhound, descends from the English Foxhound but is slightly lighter and swifter. Today’s Treeing Walker Coonhound is still used for its original purpose, which is to hunt and tree raccoons and opossums, especially at night. This breed was not recognized as a distinct breed until 1945, when the United Kennel Club accepted it into its registry. The Treeing Walker Coonhound was accepted into the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service registry in 1995, and was given the Hound Group designation.
Adult males of this breed typically stand 22 to 27 inches at the withers; females average 20 to 25 inches in height. They typically weigh 50 to 70 pounds in good condition. Their short coat is easy to care for. Tricolor is preferred, in black, white and tan.
History
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is an American breed that descends from the English Foxhounds brought to Virginia by Thomas Walker in 1742. The precise crosses that contributed to the modern breed are not well documented. However, today’s Walker Coonhound, while it resembles the English Foxhound in appearance, differs in hunting technique in that it is much more persistent in keeping quarry treed and barking noisily to attract its master.
These are confident, stable, sensible dogs. They can run at great speeds and as a result have competed quite successfully in field trials, including night runs. They have a “hot nose”, a bugling voice and superb endurance. Treeing Walker Coonhounds make gentle family pets, as long as they get regular exercise and a chance to hunt. The breed was accepted into the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service in 1995.
Health
The average life span of the Treeing Walker Coonhound is 11 to 13 years. Breed health concerns may include polyradiculoneuritis.
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Quick Facts
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Weight: 50-70 lbs
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Height: 20-27 in
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Coat: Smooth, glossy, short
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Temperament: Intelligent, hard working
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Lifespan: ~12 Years
Personality
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