Treeing Walker Coonhound
Description
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a breed of hound known for its exceptional hunting abilities, particularly in tracking and treeing game. It originated in the United States and is a descendant of the English Foxhound, with influences from other breeds such as the American Foxhound and the Walker Hound. This breed is specifically bred for pursuing raccoons, squirrels, and other small game, thanks to its keen sense of smell and excellent stamina. Treeing Walkers are recognized by their distinctive appearance, characterized by a sleek, athletic build and a striking coat that typically features a combination of black, white, and tan markings.
Personality
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are typically sociable dogs that get along well with children and other pets, making them great family companions. They are intelligent and eager to please but can also be a bit independent, which is common in hound breeds. This independence can lead to stubbornness during training, so consistent and positive reinforcement methods are recommended. Treeing Walkers are also known for their playful energy and need for regular exercise, as they can become bored and exhibit destructive behaviors if not sufficiently stimulated.
Care Requirements
Treeing Walker Coonhounds require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Daily walks, play sessions, and opportunities to run off-leash in a secure area are essential. They thrive in environments where they can engage in activities that stimulate their hunting instincts. Grooming needs are minimal due to their short coat, requiring only occasional brushing to reduce shedding and keep their coat healthy. Socialization and training from an early age are important to ensure they develop into well-rounded pets. Additionally, regular check-ups with a veterinarian and attention to their diet can help prevent common health issues associated with the breed, such as hip dysplasia and ear infections.
Suitable For:
- Families with children
- Homes with other dogs
- Active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise
- Those looking for a trainable pet for activities or sports
- Individuals who don't mind a dog that barks
- NOT
Not Suitable For:
- Homes where the dog would be left alone for long periods
- Those looking for a dog that is highly protective or guard-dog like
- Individuals or families who prefer a quiet, low-energy pet
- Those who are not prepared for a dog with a high exercise need
- Individuals or households with a preference for a dog that is highly friendly with strangers
Physical Characteristics
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are medium to large-sized dogs, typically weighing between 50 to 70 pounds and standing about 20 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a lean, muscular build that reflects their athleticism and endurance. Their heads are long and narrow, with large, expressive eyes that convey their keen intelligence. The ears are long and hang down, adding to their characteristic appearance. The coat is short, dense, and weather-resistant, usually featuring a combination of white with black and tan patches, creating a striking and recognizable pattern.
Height
Male: 22" - 27"
Female: 22" - 27"
Weight
Male: 50 - 70 lbs
Female: 50 - 70 lbs
Life Expectancy
12 - 13 years
Breed Profile
Breed Characteristics
Maintenance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The Treeing Walker Coonhound traces its origins back to the early 19th century. This breed was developed from the Walker Foxhound, which was itself descended from the English Foxhound that Thomas Walker imported to Virginia in 1742. This breed was specifically created for their exceptional hunting abilities, especially for tracking and treeing raccoons.
Despite their size, with a height of 22-27 inches and a weight of 50-70 pounds, Treeing Walker Coonhounds are incredibly agile and fast. They are known for their distinctive style of hunting, where they chase their prey up a tree and then "sing" to alert their owners – a unique combination of howls and barks.
Treeing Walker Coonhounds have a distinctive coat that is short and dense, providing excellent protection against the elements. The breed standard color is tricolor, with white as the primary color accompanied by black and tan markings. While this color scheme might be common in many breeds, in Treeing Walker Coonhounds, the black color forms a "saddle" on the back, and the rest of the body is white and tan.
The breed has made notable achievements in coonhound events. A Treeing Walker Coonhound named 'House's Lipper' won the World Coonhound Championship three years in a row (1971-1973), setting a record in the coonhound community. This breed is known for its competitiveness and often dominates coonhound-specific events.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound has been immortalized in the Southern USA culture and is often associated with rural life and hunting traditions. They are celebrated in country music, literature, and folklore. The breed's distinct bay, or howl, is even featured in some Southern musical compositions.