Bloodhound Breed Characteristics
Height
58 to 68 cm at the shoulder
Weight
80 to 110 pounds
Life Expectancy
11 to 14 years
Coat Colours
Black, tan, red, liver
Bloodhound
Gentle, loving, persistent
About the Bloodhound
The Bloodhound stands as a masterful tracker, easily spotted by its droopy visage, long ears, and exceptional olfactory prowess. These dogs often grace the screen in movies and TV shows. Despite their celebrity, Bloodhounds remain grounded and modest.
These affectionate and even-tempered dogs make splendid companions. Their unyielding drive to follow scents is unparalleled. While they may trail a scent for hours, they are more likely to shower it with drool than show aggression.
Bloodhounds usually exhibit patience and gentleness with children and other dogs. They can coexist peacefully with cats. They make excellent family pets for those who embrace a bit of slobber and relish engaging in plenty of activities.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Bloodhound, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
5/5
Friendly with Kids
5/5
Friendly with Dogs
5/5
Ease of Grooming
2/5
Exercise Needs
5/5
Prey Drive
3/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
4/5
Good for Novice Owners
2/5
Apartment Living
1/5
Bloodhound Breed History
Historical records suggest that dogs resembling Bloodhounds were employed as early as the 3rd century in the Mediterranean region. The Greeks highly valued these dogs’ tracking abilities, establishing them as the oldest known scenthound breed. The ancestors of modern Bloodhounds spread across Europe, evolving into the breed we know today.
Contrary to popular belief, the name ‘Bloodhound’ does not refer to their ability to track blood. Instead, ‘Bloodhound’ stems from the term ‘blooded hound,’ indicating their heritage of being nurtured by noblemen and monks.
During the Middle Ages, these dogs were esteemed gifts and companions among the nobility. Legend suggests that William the Conqueror introduced them to England during his conquest in 1066. Even Shakespeare mentioned Bloodhounds in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream.’ Today, Bloodhounds play crucial roles in law enforcement and search and rescue teams.
Caring For a Bloodhound
- Temperament: Known for their loving nature, Bloodhounds may initially appear reserved with strangers, yet they are typically amiable and sociable with nearly everyone. Some may show stubbornness and pursue scents with relentless dedication.
- Grooming: Due to their heavy shedding, Bloodhounds require regular brushing with a hound glove. While their coat demands minimal upkeep, cleaning the skin folds on their face is vital to prevent bacterial growth.
- Exercise: Providing ample activities and mental challenges is essential for Bloodhounds. Daily walks of an hour are recommended, allowing them to sniff and explore— a leisurely 'sniffing walk' holds more importance than strenuous physical exercise for these dogs.
- Nutrition: Adult Bloodhounds should consume between four to eight cups of dog food daily, divided into smaller servings to prevent stomach issues. For Bloodhound puppies, about four cups of food are recommended. Consulting a veterinarian for specific advice is always wise.
- Training: Bloodhounds can be challenging to train due to their propensity to get distracted. Using treats and rewards can help maintain their focus during training sessions. Obedience training is crucial, especially considering their size as they grow.
How to Choose a Responsible Bloodhound Breeder
Choosing a responsible Bloodhound breeder is paramount. Opt for breeders who understand the genetics of their breeding dogs. These breeders possess the expertise to nurture healthy puppies that make wonderful companions. Ethical breeders also prioritise health screenings for their dogs.
When searching for a Bloodhound puppy, inquire whether the breeder is associated with any breeding organisations and what protocols they follow for animal welfare and upbringing standards. If possible, visit their facility to ensure that the environment is clean and safe.
Bloodhound FAQ
Can Bloodhounds be left alone throughout the day?
No. Bloodhounds are calm and gentle, but they need companionship throughout the day.
Are Bloodhounds aggressive?
No, Bloodhounds aren’t aggressive toward anyone. They don’t tend to be territorial or possessive, though they may knock people if they get overly excited.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Bloodhound
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
