Appearance
Black and Tan Coonhounds are large, powerful hunting dogs with short, dense coats that protect them from the elements. Their length is usually equal to their height, but some are a bit longer than they are tall. This breed is a descendent of the Bloodhound, and they have the same size and shaped as their forefather. They have large noses, drooping lips, and large, low-hanging ears. They have round, hazel or brown eyes, which often look sad. The Black and Tan's tail is long and strong, and when he is at work in the hunting field, he carries it upward at a right angle. Black and Tan Coonhounds are, of course, black and tan in color.
Size and Weight
Black and Tan Coonhounds are large dogs, standing 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 75 to 100 pounds. Males are slightly larger than females at maturity. Black and Tans should move with long, rhythmic strides.
Coat and Color
The Black and Tan Coonhound developed a short, dense, oily coat to keep him protected from weather and brush as he worked in the hunting field. This breed is, obviously, black and tan in color. Black is the base color and tan markings appear above the eyes, on the sides of the muzzle, on the chest, legs and backs of the thighs. Their feet are often marked with flecks of black.
Grooming Needs
A hound mitt is needed for properly grooming a Black and Tan. They need to be brushed two or three times per week to remove dead hair and distribute the natural oils of the skin and coat. Black and Tans shed year round with heavier shedding coming during the Spring and Fall season changes. Only bathe this breed as needed, stripping the natural oils from the skin can lead to irritation and the development of allergies.
The drop ears of the Black and Tan do not allow for air to circulate, and thus make the dog prone to painful ear infections. Weekly cleaning with a veterinarian-recommended cleanser can keep harmful bacteria from building up in the ears.
Other hygiene needs include regular teeth cleaning. Some owners brush their Black and Tan's teeth daily to prevent bad breath, but weekly cleanings can keep tarter buildup to a minimum.