Colors:
Black and tan, liver and tan, and red.
Personality:
The Bloodhound is a kind-souled, affectionate hound who gets along with everyone. Large and loose skinned, he is a presence wherever he goes. Because he was bred to be single-minded and persistent, the Bloodhound is often more interested in what's on the ground than what you're trying to show or tell him. Despite his stubborn streak, his sweet nature and gentle good humor make him a great pet for owners willing to put in the time to train him.
At home:
A Bloodhound can do well in an apartment, suburban home, or farm, provided he gets a few walks a day. No matter what his living environment, there's one thing every Bloodhound owner needs to be prepared for: drool, and lots of it. He needs a safely enclosed yard, as he can be a tireless digger and a fence jumper.
Recommended activities:
The Bloodhound does well at any activity that lets him use his nose, including trailing, tracking and hunting.
Exercise:
While the Bloodhound doesn't require vigorous exercise, he is a large dog who needs regular exercise to keep his mind and body sharp. Walks on a long leash in a park where he can really find and track scents make him happiest.
Feeding:
Bloodhounds love to eat and need a high-quality diet. Their chowhound tendencies may cause them to eat inappropriate items, like gloves, toilet paper or whatever's in the garbage - a dog-proofed home is essential with a Bloodhound.
Training:
The Bloodhound is incredibly impressive at following a track, but ask him for a quick "come," and you may be pressing your luck. It's not that he doesn't want to do what you ask of him - it's just that he isn't inclined to think that it's that important. Positive and consistent training works best with this breed.
Compatibility:
Bloodhounds tend to be friendly with most people and get along well with children. They do well with other dogs but can't be trusted around smaller pets, whom they may see as prey.
Health:
The average life span of the Bloodhound is 10 to 12 years. Breed health concerns include bloat; ear infections; entropion; and hip dysplasia.
Grooming blurb:
It's not the fur on a Bloodhound that will demand your attention, although it does need brushing to remove dead hair and stimulate the skin. Instead, it's the wrinkles on his face and his large, droopy ears that will keep you busy. The folds and sags are prone to injury and infection, and the ears must be kept clean.
Disclaimer:
Copyright by T.F.H. Publications, Inc. This document has been published with the intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter within. While every reasonable precaution has been taken in preparation of this document, the author and publisher expressly disclaim responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained herein. The techniques and suggestions are used at the reader's discretion.
