Redbone Coonhound Dog: Complete Breed Profile, Care & Ownership Guide
Everything about the Redbone Coonhound dog: origin, temperament, health risks, exercise needs, cost, and whether this rare Southern hound fits your family.
Meet the Redbone Coonhound: America's Red-Coated Treeing Hound
If you've ever heard a deep, rolling howl echo across a Southern field at dusk, you may have been listening to a Redbone Coonhound dog working a scent trail. This striking, mahogany-coated hound is one of the most visually distinctive coonhound breeds — and one of the least commonly seen outside the rural United States. Built for endurance over rough terrain and blessed with a nose that can follow a cold trail for miles, the Redbone is a working dog first and a family companion second.
But that doesn't mean they can't thrive as pets. In my years working with hound owners, I've seen well-exercised Redbones become deeply bonded, gentle household members — provided their humans understand what makes this breed tick. They are not Labradors in red coats. They are scenthounds with specific needs, specific quirks, and a vocal range that will test your neighbors' patience.
This guide covers everything a prospective owner needs to know about the Redbone Coonhound dog, from breed history and physical standards to health predispositions and realistic cost expectations.
Origin and History: Bred in the American South to Tree Game
Where did the Redbone Coonhound originate? The breed was developed in the southeastern United States — primarily Georgia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas — during the 18th and 19th centuries. Settlers of Scottish and Irish descent brought red foxhounds to the American colonies, and these dogs formed the genetic foundation of what would become the Redbone Coonhound.
What was it bred for? The Redbone was specifically developed to hunt raccoon, though it was also used on bear, bobcat, and cougar. Unlike sight hounds that chase by vision, the Redbone is a treeing dog — it tracks game by scent across miles of difficult terrain, then corners the animal in a tree and alerts the hunter with its distinctive, baying howl. This "treeing" instinct remains powerfully intact in modern Redbones, even those that have never hunted.
Recognition milestones:
- 1902 — The United Kennel Club (UKC) first registered the Redbone Coonhound, making it one of the earlier coonhound breeds to receive formal recognition.
- 2009 — The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted full recognition in the Hound Group, a relatively recent milestone that reflects the breed's limited presence in the conformation show world.
- FCI Status — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale does not currently maintain a standalone breed standard for the Redbone, though it is recognized through the AKC's reciprocal agreements.
The breed's name is believed to derive from its distinctive red coat — "redbone" was a colloquial Southern term for a reddish hue, not a reference to bone structure. Some early breed historians have suggested a possible Bloodhound cross contributed to the breed's deep jowls and exceptional scenting ability, though this remains unconfirmed by genetic studies.
Physical Characteristics: What Sets the Redbone Coonhound Dog Apart
| Trait | Standard |
|---|---|
| Weight (Male) | 55–70 lb / 25–32 kg |
| Weight (Female) | 45–60 lb / 20–27 kg |
| Height at Shoulder | 21–27 inches / 53–69 cm |
| Coat | Short, smooth, dense; solid deep red to mahogany |
| Acceptable Markings | Small white patch on chest or feet permitted; otherwise solid |
| Ears | Long, pendant, set low; extend well beyond the jawline |
| Eye Color | Dark brown to hazel; eyelids should be tight |
| Tail | Moderate length, carried like a pump handle; slight upward curve |
| Lifespan | 10–12 years (some lines reach 14) |
| Energy Level | High — working-line dogs require 60–90+ minutes of vigorous activity daily |
| Grooming Needs | Low — weekly brushing; regular ear cleaning critical |
| Family Fit | Best with active families, rural or suburban homes with secure fencing |
The Redbone's most immediately recognizable feature is its rich, uniform red coat — a color that ranges from bright chestnut to deep mahogany. Unlike the Bluetick Coonhound's mottled pattern or the English Coonhound's tricolor or ticked coat, a well-bred Redbone should present as a solid, unbroken red. This visual uniformity is a breed hallmark and the easiest way to distinguish it from other coonhound varieties at a glance.
Structurally, the Redbone is a moderate, balanced hound. It is neither as heavily boned as a Bloodhound nor as fine and racy as a Greyhound. The AKC breed standard describes a dog that is "pleasing and even" in appearance, with a broad, flat skull and a muzzle that is roughly equal in length to the skull. The long, low-set ears are not merely cosmetic — they help funnel scent particles toward the nose during ground-level tracking.
Temperament: What Surprises New Redbone Owners
Most first-time Redbone Coonhound dog owners come in expecting a mellow, easygoing hound. What they actually get is a dog with a complex personality that shifts dramatically depending on whether a scent is in the air.
At home: Redbones are typically calm, affectionate, and prone to leaning against their owners for physical contact. They tend to bond closely with one or two people rather than distributing affection equally. Many owners describe them as "velcro dogs" — they follow you room to room and want to be in your space. They are generally gentle with children they've been raised with, though their size and tail-whipping enthusiasm can knock over toddlers.
On a scent: This is where new owners get blindsided. A Redbone that detects an interesting smell — raccoon, possum, deer, even a strong food scent — undergoes a near-instant behavioral shift. Ears go forward, the nose drops to the ground, and recall training effectively ceases to exist. This is not disobedience; it is a hardwired scenthound response. Off-leash freedom in unfenced areas is never safe for this breed. They will follow a trail for miles and become genuinely lost, not defiant.
Vocalization: Redbones bay. Loudly. Their signature call is a deep, resonant "aroo" that carries for hundreds of yards. They bay when they're excited, when they detect something outside, when they're bored, and sometimes simply because they feel like it. Apartment living with a Redbone is technically possible but practically miserable for you and your neighbors. This breed belongs in a setting where vocalization won't generate complaints.
Prey drive: Small animals — cats, rabbits, chickens, pet rodents — should be introduced with extreme caution and constant supervision. Some Redbones can coexist with household cats if raised together from puppyhood, but the instinct to chase and tree small creatures is always present beneath the surface.
Health Concerns: Breed-Specific Predispositions Owners Must Know
The Redbone Coonhound is generally a robust breed, thanks in part to its working-dog heritage where unsound dogs were simply not bred. However, several conditions appear with enough frequency in the breed that prospective owners should be aware of them and discuss screening with their breeder and veterinarian.
Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition. The information below is for awareness and should not replace professional veterinary care.
| Condition | Description | Estimated Prevalence | Screening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Malformation of the hip joint leading to arthritis and lameness | ~12–18% in coonhound breeds (OFA data) | OFA or PennHIP radiographs at 24 months |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Degenerative eye disease causing gradual blindness | Reported in Redbone lines; exact prevalence unquantified | CERF/OFA ophthalmologist exam annually |
| Ear Infections (Otitis Externa) | Chronic ear canal inflammation due to pendant ear structure trapping moisture | Very common — estimated 40–60% of pendant-eared hounds experience recurrent episodes | Weekly visual inspection; veterinary cytology as needed |
| Bloat / Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) | Life-threatening stomach torsion; deep-chested breeds are at elevated risk | Low individual risk but breed is in the at-risk category | Discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your vet if spaying/neutering |
| Hypothyroidism | Underactive thyroid gland causing weight gain, lethargy, coat thinning | Occasionally reported; ~3–5% in hound breeds generally | Annual thyroid panel (T4, free T4, TSH) |
Ear care deserves special emphasis. The Redbone's long, heavy pendant ears create a warm, dark, moist environment ideal for yeast and bacterial overgrowth. I recommend cleaning ears weekly with a veterinarian-approved, pH-balanced ear cleanser (products like Epi-Otic Advanced or TrizUltra are commonly recommended). Flip the ear, apply cleanser, massage the base for 20 seconds, and let the dog shake. Dogs that swim frequently need ear cleaning immediately after every water session.
Exercise, Training, and Daily Care Requirements
Daily Exercise Minimum
- 60–90 minutes of structured physical activity for adult dogs (puppies under 18 months should have controlled exercise to protect developing joints)
- Activities: long leash walks, jogging alongside a bicycle, hiking on varied terrain, structured scent work games
- A fenced yard (minimum 6-foot fence recommended) is strongly preferred but not a substitute for active engagement — a bored Redbone in a yard will dig, howl, or attempt to escape
Training Approach
- Use positive reinforcement only — high-value food rewards (freeze-dried liver, chicken bits), praise, and play. Redbones are sensitive despite their tough exterior and shut down under harsh correction.
- Recall training is the single most important skill, but be realistic: even a well-trained Redbone will not reliably recall off-leash when a strong scent is present. Use a 30-foot long line for safe off-leash-style exercise in open areas.
- Keep training sessions short (5–10 minutes) and varied. Hounds bore quickly with repetitive drills.
- Socialization window is critical between 8–16 weeks — expose to varied surfaces, people, sounds, and other dogs during this period.
Grooming and Maintenance
- Coat: Brush weekly with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush. Shedding is moderate year-round with seasonal increases.
- Ears: Clean weekly (see above). Check for redness, odor, or excessive debris.
- Nails: Trim every 2–3 weeks. Active dogs on hard surfaces may wear nails naturally, but dewclaws always need manual trimming.
- Teeth: Brush 3–4 times weekly with enzymatic dog toothpaste. Dental disease is a major health concern across all breeds.
- Drool: Moderate. Keep a towel handy after drinking — the jowls do drip.
How Rare Is the Redbone Coonhound Today, and How Much Does One Cost?
The Redbone Coonhound dog remains an uncommon breed in the pet market. The AKC ranked it 152nd out of 201 recognized breeds in popularity — firmly in the lower third. Most Redbones in the United States are owned by hunters or rural families in the Southeast, and the breed has limited visibility in urban and suburban areas nationwide.
Where to find a Redbone Coonhound:
- Responsible breeders: The AKC Marketplace lists registered breeders, but availability is limited. The American Redbone Coonhound Breeders Association and regional coonhound clubs are additional resources. Expect waitlists of 3–12 months for a well-bred puppy.
- Rescue organizations: Coonhound rescue groups (such as Coonhound Companions and regional hound rescues) occasionally have Redbones available. These dogs are often surrendered when owners underestimate the exercise and vocalization requirements.
- Rural shelters: In Southeastern states, Redbones and Redbone mixes appear in shelters more frequently than in other regions.
Cost breakdown:
| Expense | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Puppy from a responsible breeder (AKC/UKC registered, health-tested parents) | $800–$1,800 |
| Adoption from rescue | $150–$400 |
| First-year veterinary care (vaccines, spay/neuter, heartworm prevention, microchip) | $800–$1,500 |
| Annual ongoing care (food, preventives, checkups) | $1,200–$2,000 |
| Quality kibble (large-breed formula, 50 lb bag) | $55–$90 per bag, approximately 1 bag per month |
| Pet insurance (monthly premium) | $35–$65 depending on coverage and deductible |
Breeder red flags to watch for:
- No health testing documentation for sire and dam (request OFA hip and CERF eye clearances)
- Breeder cannot discuss the specific health issues in their bloodlines
- Puppies sold before 8 weeks of age
- No take-back or return clause in the contract
- Multiple litters always available with no waitlist — suggests high-volume breeding
- Price significantly below $600 for a "registered" puppy — often indicates backyard breeding with no health screening
Redbone Coonhound vs. Similar Breeds: A Practical Comparison
If you're drawn to the Redbone's appearance but aren't certain it's the right fit, here's how it compares to breeds that share some characteristics:
| Trait | Redbone Coonhound | Vizsla | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 45–70 lb / 21–27 in | 44–60 lb / 21–24 in | 65–85 lb / 24–27 in |
| Coat Color | Solid red to mahogany | Golden rust | Light wheaten to red wheaten |
| Primary Instinct | Scent tracking + treeing | Pointing + retrieving | Sight chasing + holding |
| Recall Reliability Off-Leash | Low — will follow scents regardless of training | Moderate — better biddability but still high prey drive | Moderate — more handler-focused than coonhounds |
| Vocalization | High — frequent baying | Moderate — barks but rarely howls | Low to moderate — generally quiet |
| Stranger Friendliness | Friendly to aloof | Velcro-attached to family, reserved with strangers | Aloof to guarded; strong protective instinct |
| Trainability | Moderate — independent thinker | High — eager, responsive | Moderate — strong-willed, needs confident handler |
| Best Suited For | Active rural/suburban owners who understand hound behavior | Active owners wanting a biddable sporting companion | Experienced owners wanting a loyal, protective athlete |
The Vizsla is probably the most common "lookalike" that confuses people unfamiliar with coonhounds. Both are sleek, red-coated dogs with similar size ranges. The key difference is function: the Vizsla is a pointing breed that works closely with its handler, making it significantly more trainable and recall-reliable. The Redbone is a trailing and treeing hound that works independently at distance — a fundamental behavioral difference that affects daily life as a pet.
Is the Redbone Coonhound Dog Right for Your Family?
Good fit if you:
- Have access to securely fenced outdoor space (minimum 6-foot fence — Redbones can jump 4–5 feet from a standstill and will climb or dig if motivated)
- Can commit to 60–90 minutes of active exercise daily, rain or shine
- Live in a rural or suburban area where baying won't violate noise ordinances
- Have prior experience with hounds or independent-minded breeds
- Want a loyal, physically affectionate dog that thrives on close human contact
- Don't have small pets (cats, rabbits, chickens) unless you're prepared for careful, supervised introductions and realistic risk acceptance
Poor fit if you:
- Live in an apartment or attached housing with shared walls
- Work long hours away from home — Redbones are prone to separation distress and will vocalize their unhappiness
- Want a dog that will reliably come when called off-leash in open areas
- Are a first-time dog owner looking for an easy, forgiving breed — consider a Vizsla or Labrador Retriever instead
- Are bothered by drool, dog smell, or a dog that sheds on your furniture
Frequently Asked Questions About the Redbone Coonhound Dog
Are Redbone Coonhounds aggressive?
No. Redbones are not an aggressive breed. They were developed to hunt in packs and work cooperatively with humans, so dog-aggression and human-aggression are atypical. However, like any dog, they can resource-guard food or toys if not trained properly, and their prey drive toward small animals should not be confused with aggression toward people or other dogs.
How much exercise does a Redbone Coonhound need daily?
Adult Redbones need a minimum of 60–90 minutes of vigorous exercise per day. A 20-minute walk around the block is not sufficient. These dogs need sustained aerobic activity — jogging, hiking, structured scent games, or running in a securely fenced area. Under-exercised Redbones become destructive, vocal, and prone to escape attempts.
Do Redbone Coonhounds shed a lot?
Moderately. Their short, dense coat sheds year-round at a manageable level, with heavier shedding in spring and fall. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush keeps loose hair under control. They are not a hypoallergenic breed.
Can Redbone Coonhounds live with cats?
Some can, particularly if raised with cats from puppyhood. However, the breed's strong prey drive means that introducing an adult Redbone to a household cat carries real risk. Never leave a Redbone unsupervised with a cat, even if they appear to coexist peacefully. Outdoor cats and neighborhood cats will almost certainly trigger the chase instinct.
Why does my Redbone Coonhound howl so much?
Baying is a core breed trait, not a behavioral problem to be "fixed." Redbones vocalize to communicate excitement, alert you to perceived intruders (a squirrel on the fence line qualifies), express boredom, or simply because they hear another dog howling in the distance. You can reduce nuisance howling by ensuring adequate exercise, providing mental stimulation (snuffle mats, frozen Kongs), and not leaving the dog alone outdoors for extended periods. If howling is truly intolerable to you, this is not the right breed.
What is the best food for a Redbone Coonhound?
Feed a large-breed formula that meets AAFCO nutritional standards for your dog's life stage. Look for a named animal protein as the first ingredient and a guaranteed analysis showing 22–26% protein for adult maintenance. Active working-line Redbones may benefit from a performance formula with 26–30% protein and 18–20% fat. Avoid free-feeding — measure meals to maintain a lean body condition score (BCS 4–5 out of 9).
How long do Redbone Coonhounds live?
The typical lifespan is 10–12 years, though some well-bred lines with good health screening reach 13–14 years. Maintaining a lean weight, providing consistent exercise, and keeping up with preventive veterinary care are the most impactful things you can do to maximize longevity.
Marcus Aldridge
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