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Redbone Coonhound Breed Summary
Laidback, Energetic, Affectionate, Independent and Friendly
The Redbone Coonhound is an 'All American' doggy and is most probably a descendant of Foxhounds, Bloodhounds and even Irish Hounds. It's thought that they were probably developed by a man named George E.L. Birdson, who at the time was a well-known fox hunter and breeder who lived in Georgia. The breed were said to have a 'black saddle' on their backs due to the colouring of their coats, this gave rise to the nickname of 'saddlebacks'. However, as breeders started to favour the solid red colour, this name started to disappear. They became a registered breed by the American Kennel Club in 2009 and are currently ranked 122nd amongst all of the breeds registered.
| Lifespan | 10 - 12 years |
| Height (at the withers) | Males and Females 53cm - 69cm |
| Weight | Males and Females 20kg - 36kg |
| Coat | Short and glossy |
| Colour | Red |
| Eye colour | Brown |
| Common health issues | Hip Dysplasia |
| Other Names | Reds |
The Redbone is discussed as being one of the most laidback out of all of the Coonhounds. They make fantastic pets as they really thrive within a home environment but additionally make excellent hunting doggies. Their intelligence also means that they are relatively easy to train (for a scenthound!) and are also fairly easy to handle. However, they will need lots of positive reinforcement with short, fun sessions as they become easily bored. They absolutely love 'hoomans' and get on very well with children as well as any other pets that may be in the house, including cats! Just watch out that you don't let your doggy off the lead as if they catch an interesting scent, they'll be off! For the right family, they make great pets and have the ability to provide you with years of love!
The Redbone Coonhound is an American made breed that is descended from Foxhounds and Bloodhounds. In the late 1700s, Red Foxhounds were imported into the United States with Scottish immigrants. Before the Civil War, Red Irish Foxhounds were also brought with the Irish settlers. By the late 18th century, coon hunters needed a faster, hotter nosed dog that could locate and tree raccoons quicker than the current breeds in the area. By crossing these immigrant breeds, this faster dog was born.
For several years, breeding concentrated on creating a nearly solid coloured red dog, bred for its speed and agility in various terrains. Many early versions of the breed had black coloring over their backs resembling a saddle, and were called “Saddlebacks.” As the red color was favoured, the black saddle was eventually bred out of the breed.
George Birdsong, a famous Georgian fox hunter and dog breeder, obtained a pack of this breed in 1840, and successfully refined it. Many believe the Redbone Coonhound owes its name to its striking red colour, but more likely it is named for Peter Redbone, a Tennessee promoter of the breed. In 1902, the Redbone Coonhound was recognized by the United Kennel Club. Familiarity of the breed grew after the book, and subsequent movie, “Where the Red Fern Grows,” which featured two Redbone Coonhounds. Today, this dog is still a versatile hunter which cannot only tree raccoons, but also bears, cougars, and bobcats too.