Bloodhound

Size: Large to Extra-Large
Other Names: Chien de Saint-Hubert, St.  Hubert Hound, Saint Hubert Hound
Country of Origin: Belgium and France
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Hound
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Hounds
United Kennel Club (UKC): Scenthound
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Hounds
The Kennel Club (KC): Hound
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Hound
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Hound

Height:

23-27 inches

Weight:

80-110 pounds

Color(s):

Black and tan, liver and tan, or red

Coat:

Hard and composed of fur alone

Description:

The Bloodhound has been bred for the specific purpose of tracking human beings.  Consequently, it is often used by authorities to track escaped prisoners or missing persons.  It is a scenthound, famed for its ability to follow a scent hours or even days old, over long distances.  Bloodhounds combine a keen sense of smell with a tenaciously strong tracking instinct.

Temperament:

Bloodhounds are affectionate, gentle, and even-tempered dogs, which make excellent family pets.  However, like any large breed dog, Bloodhounds require supervision when around small children because they will know them over with their bulk.  Bloodhounds are also characterized by a stubborn "what's-in-it-for-me?" temperament.  Their stubborn temperament, in conjunction with their size and propensity for excessive drooling, is a likely cause for the high rate of bloodhounds given up for adoption once full-grown, in comparison with other breeds.

Training:

Because of its strong tracking instinct, a Bloodhound can be willful and somewhat difficult to obedience train.  However, with the proper amount of time, effort, and good treatment, obedience training can be completed easily.

Care & Grooming:

Eyes, ears, and skin should be inspected frequently for signs of developing problems.  Owners should be especially aware of the signs of gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV).  Symptoms include restlessness, inability to get comfortable, pacing, or retching without being able to bring up anything.  The dog’s abdomen may be visibly swollen, but not always.  GDV is a dire emergency condition, requiring immediate veterinary care.  If you suspect a dog is bloating, you should not wait to see if he improves.  The dog’s survival usually depends on getting him to the vet in time.  It is a good idea for a Bloodhound owner to know the route to the nearest 24-hour emergency clinic in advance, so time is not wasted getting directions.

Shedding:

Moderate.

Health:

Bloodhounds are prone to ear and eyelid problems, skin-fold irritation, hip and elbow dysplasia, and bloat.  The heavy ears and eyelids need regular cleaning and checks.

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Litter Size:

8–10 puppies