Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 80-110 lbs.
Life Span: 10-12 yrs.
Breed Group: Scent Hounds
Overview
Bloodhounds are extremely affectionate with people and are rarely quarrelsome
with other animals.
They bark deeply when strangers approach their territory but are actually
very friendly. They slobber, and their wagging tails may knock objects off
tables.
Don't expect your bloodhound to be at the top of its obedience class, but
there is no comparable dog when it comes to cold scent-tracking.
Appearance
The bloodhound has one of the most interesting faces in the dog world. The
loose, super-abundant skin on the head and neck seems to take on a life
of its own as the bloodhound walks, runs, and lies down. Its extremely long
ears fall in graceful folds.
Its coat is short and dense and is seen in black and tan, red and tan, or
tawny.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
Bloodhounds need a weekly brushing and ear cleaning.
They need a lot of exercise, such as long, vigorous daily walks during which
they can follow scent trails. This powerful dog must always be walked on
a leash or it will follow a scent rather than its owner.
Origins
The bloodhound has been known, in some form, since ancient times, and many
of today's scent hounds, such as bassets, beagles, and foxhounds, are descended
from bloodhound ancestors.
Special Alerts
The bloodhound's strong instinct for following scents makes it unsuitable
for city or apartment life.
Breed-related health concerns: hip dysplasia, bloat, ectropion/entropion,
otitis externa.
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
