Bloodhound Breed Characteristics
Height
58 to 68 cm at the shoulder
Weight
36 to 50 kg (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 is world famous as a wonderful scent tracker. They are easily identifiable with their droopy faces, long ears, and exceptional noses. They have been popular on screen for years, showing up in both film and animation. Despite their celebrity, Bloodhounds still remain loyal and steadfast as pets.
Bloodhounds are affectionate and even-tempered dogs and make excellent companions. Their unyielding drive to follow scents is unparalleled, which makes them great for searching for things. 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
Rated 5 out of 5
Friendly with Kids
Rated 5 out of 5
Friendly with Dogs
Rated 5 out of 5
Ease of Grooming
Rated 2 out of 5
Exercise Needs
Rated 5 out of 5
Prey Drive
Rated 3 out of 5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
Rated 4 out of 5
Good for Novice Owners
Rated 2 out of 5
Apartment Living
Rated 1 out of 5
Bloodhound Breed History
Historical records suggest that dogs resembling Bloodhounds were employed in the Mediterranean region as early as the 3rd century. 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.
Today, Bloodhounds play important roles in law enforcement and search and rescue teams.
Caring For a Bloodhound
- Temperament: Bloodhounds may initially appear reserved with strangers, but they are typically friendly and sociable with nearly everyone. They may have a stubborn streak, though, 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 puppy food are recommended. It's best to consult a veterinarian for better advice though, especially if your Bloodhound has any conditions.
- Training: Bloodhounds can be challenging to train due to their likelihood of getting distracted with scents. Using treats and rewards can help maintain their focus during training sessions. Obedience training is crucial in making sure they don't run off when you take them out.
How to Choose a Responsible Bloodhound Breeder
Choosing a responsible Bloodhound breeder is important when trying to get a Bloodhound puppy. Opt for breeders who understand the genetics of their breeding dogs. These breeders possess the know-how to nurture happy puppies that will stay healthy for years to come. Ethical breeders will prioritise health screenings for their dogs to make sure they’re free from any genetic issues.
When searching for a Bloodhound puppy, ask whether the breeder is associated with any breeding organisations. It’s important to find out what protocols they follow for animal welfare and whether they uphold standards. If possible, visit the facility the dog is raised in 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.
