July 9th is Coon Dog Day! As the name suggests, these pups were bred for hunting, with raccoons being at the top of their most wanted list. A local Flat Rock, NC vet goes over some fun facts about the coon dog in this article.
History
With the exception of the Plott Hound, which is descended from German Dogs, Coon hounds are descendants of Foxhounds that were brought over from England. The British pups did not do well at hunting animals that climbed trees, and often lost scents when their intended prey ran up trees. The Coon hound lines were developed with an emphasis on a sense of smell, tracking ability, and versatility in hunting prey.
A Different Breed
There are actually six types of coon dog. The Black and Tan Coonhound was the first to be officially registered, which happened back in 1900. Two years later, Fido was joined by a Scottish redhead: the Redbone Coonhound. Then, in 1905, the English Coonhound—sometimes called American English—came along. The next two to join the pack were the Bluetick Coonhound and the Treeing Walker Coonhound. Last but not least, the Plott Hound rounded up the pack in 1946.
Coon Dog Day
Not all dog breeds—or even breed groups—get to claim their own day, but the Coon dog fans have gone all-in on this one. You’ve likely heard of this ‘pawesome’ event. Every year, on the Saturday after Independence Day, Saluda welcomes thousands of Coon dog fans to an all-day event. The festival includes parades, races, music, food, street art and vendors, a dog show, and a dance party. Oh, there’s also a doggy adoption event going on.
Memorial
Fido doesn’t just get his own day: he also has his own cemetery. The Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard, in Alabama, is reserved strictly for Coon dogs.
Temperament
Although every type of Coon dog is a bit different, these guys do share some common traits. They tend to be loyal, friendly, and intelligent, and sometimes stubborn. Fido is also highly active, and generally isn’t going to be well-suited for apartment life. Coon dogs sometimes have a strong prey drive, so he may not always be the best fit for a home with cats. Ask your vet for more information.
Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Flat Rock, NC animal clinic, today!
