Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is one of the most recognizable breeds in the world – after all, who can forget their droopy face, long ears, and well-built body. But this breed goes beyond appearances, and these dogs have an impressive sense of smell that has made them hunting companions for hundreds of years, if not thousands.
Bloodhounds have been portrayed in media and pop culture as the “Sherlock Holmes” of dogs, able to sniff out clues and fugitives, and that is certainly something at which they excel. But they’re also laid-back and gentle family dogs who love to spend time with humans.
Temperament
Bloodhounds are laid-back and relaxed companions when there is no work to be done. This is in stark contrast to the popular mental image many people have of the Bloodhound on the trail – a baying, howling force of nature that will unerringly find their prey. While it’s true that Bloodhounds are exceptionally skilled and focused trackers, they aren’t aggressive in the slightest. They were bred to find their prey, not take it down – any fugitive found by a Bloodhound is much more likely to be licked and snuggled into submission, rather than mauled. Despite their mournful expressions and sunken eyes, Bloodhounds are kind, gentle dogs who get along well with children and smaller animals, such as cats. They are tolerant of others in their space and are quick to make friends with strangers and other dogs. With their family, Bloodhounds are devoted and affectionate.The Ultimate Guide to Bloodhound
Origins
The true origins of the Bloodhound are shrouded in mystery, as the breed has been around for well over a thousand years. There is evidence that suggests the Bloodhound’s ancestors could be found in the Mediterranean as early as the 3rd century. The Greeks admired the way the modern Bloodhound’s ancestors would latch on to a scent and follow it til the end. This makes the Bloodhound the oldest hound breed to hunt by smell. Eventually these dogs were brought to the rest of Europe, where they would develop into the Bloodhound as we know it today. The refinement of the breed can be credited to the monks of St. Hubert’s abbey. Francois Hubert, now the patron saint of hunting, bred the Bloodhounds to excel at tracking old and cold trails, as he wanted to bring them with him on his hunting excursions. His dogs became known as St. Hubert hounds long before they were known as Bloodhounds. The Bloodhound was so successful that it is said that William the Conqueror himself brought the hounds with him on his campaign to conquer England in 1066. The breed remained popular with noblemen and aristocrats for hundreds of years. The dogs came to be known as “blooded hounds”, as you would only find them in the ownership of people with noble blood. Eventually this evolved into the name “Bloodhound”. In the 19th century, the Bloodhound started to be used in police work. While their tracking skills are second-to-none, they eventually became supplanted by more versatile dogs. They still see use as search-and-rescue dogs and tracking dogs, but many Bloodhounds are now kept as family pets. Still, the renown of the Bloodhound’s nose is so great that their trailing results are still admissible in court.
Key Characteristics of Bloodhound
| Bloodhound | Bloodhounds are laid-back and relaxed companions when there is no work to be done. This is in stark contrast to the popular mental image many people have of the Bloodhound on the trail – a baying, howling force of nature that will unerringly find their prey.
While it’s true that Bloodhounds are exceptionally skilled and focused trackers, they aren’t aggressive in the slightest. They were bred to find their prey, not take it down – any fugitive found by a Bloodhound is much more likely to be licked and snuggled into submission, rather than mauled.
Despite their mournful expressions and sunken eyes, Bloodhounds are kind, gentle dogs who get along well with children and smaller animals, such as cats. They are tolerant of others in their space and are quick to make friends with strangers and other dogs. With their family, Bloodhounds are devoted and affectionate. |
| Exercise Needs | Bloodhounds are known for their ability to hunt their prey through the wilderness, never stopping until they finally track it down. Their energy levels reflect that, and the exercise requirements of the breed are relatively high.
Most Bloodhounds will require at least an hour of vigorous exercise each day. However, there is a wide range of personalities with Bloodhounds – some high-energy dogs will need much more exercise, while others will be easily satisfied with a leisurely hour-long walk.
All Bloodhounds will want to sniff around and explore as part of their exercise time. Their noses must get as much stimulation as the rest of their bodies, so an outdoor space is a good idea so they can sniff and run around as they please. However, if they catch a scent they may take off running to track it, so make sure this outdoor space has a high fence that the Bloodhound cannot scale.
Nosework is always a good idea for a Bloodhound’s mental stimulation, and will serve to make them tired if the games are challenging enough. |
| Bloodhound Grooming | The Bloodhound is generally a low-maintenance breed, with one or two areas where owners must take special care. They have a short, dense single coat that sheds throughout the year. Bloodhounds smell like dogs – there’s no other way to say it. This is due to the natural oils secreted by their skin, which seeps into their fur to protect it from dirt and water.
While it may be tempting to bathe the Bloodhound more often than normal to get rid of this doggy odor, it’s not actually necessary and may just strip their skin of these natural oils, making the skin dry and flaky. Most Bloodhounds will only need to be bathed every three to four months, or if they get especially dirty from outdoor play.
Brushing can be done three to four times a week to minimize shedding and keep their coat shiny and soft. The folds of their skin can trap dirt and moisture, so it’s a good idea to wipe these folds with a pet wipe or a damp towel, then dry the area with a clean towel. Their ears can be treated the same way, and inspected for any odd-colored or smelly discharge that may indicate an infection.
Tooth brushing can be done three to four times a week as well, which will help prevent tooth and gum disease. Nail trimming should be done as needed to keep the Bloodhound’s nails from clicking on the floor. |
| Bloodhound Training | Bloodhounds have a reputation for being stubborn and independent, but that’s mostly because there’s so much stimulation that they get from their incredibly sensitive noses. They want to check out all the smells that we humans don’t experience.
Bloodhounds are very smart and trainable, and are eager to please their owners. The main challenge is training them with consistency and patience, as they are prone to getting distracted. Motivating your Bloodhound will go a long way towards keeping them focused on training.
Positive reinforcement is the easiest way to get your Bloodhound eager to participate in training. Treats, toys, and praise in conjunction with short, focused training sessions throughout the day will work best when teaching your Bloodhound how to behave. |
| Bloodhound Lifespan And Health Issues | Bloodhounds have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Bloodhounds may be prone to:
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| Bloodhound Size And Space Requirements | Bloodhounds are large, solidly-built dogs who need a lot of space in which to live. Males stand between 25 to 27 inches at the shoulder, while female Bloodhounds will be between 23 to 25 inches at the shoulder. Most Male Bloodhounds will weigh between 90 and 110 pounds, with females weighing in at 80 to 100 pounds.
While Bloodhounds are generally relaxed and calm indoors, they still need a large outdoor space where they can sniff around and explore. They’re not well-suited to apartment living as they tend to be vocal, which neighbors may not appreciate. Rural or city homes with secure, fenced yards are best.
Bloodhounds will want to stay with their family members, as they do not do well being left alone. They will want to be involved in family activities and sleep indoors at night.
Bloodhounds will want to stay with their family members, as they do not do well being left alone. They will want to be involved in family activities and sleep indoors at night. |
Other considerations:
- Bloodhounds are strong chewers, and can work their way through even the strongest of dog toys with enough time.
- Bloodhounds drool and pass gas frequently, making them unsuitable for owners who are particular about cleanliness.
- Most Bloodhounds are pack-oriented and love being with other dogs – or even cats.
How can I take good care of my Bloodhound or Puppy?
Proper socialization
Bloodhound puppies need early socialization to learn the rules and boundaries of the household. Due to their independent nature, this needs to be done early, ideally as your puppy is brought home. Most breeders will release puppies to their new owners at 8 weeks old. This 8 to 12 week period is when puppies are most open to learning from new experiences, and socialization during this period will help mold your dog into a gentle and well-behaved adult.
Proper nutrition
Bloodhound puppies should get high-quality, premium dog food so that they develop properly. Any treats should be given in moderation, as most treats, while flavorful, are full of fats and carbohydrates. If you have any concerns about your Bloodhound puppy’s weight, diet, or appetite, your veterinarian may have more specific dietary recommendations.
Up-to-date vaccinations
Your Bloodhound puppy will have to receive numerous vaccinations in the first couple of weeks they are with you. Contact your veterinarian and they will be able to give you more specific advice regarding the puppy’s vaccination schedule. Follow the schedule your veterinarian gives you to ensure that your Bloodhound is adequately protected from common transmissible diseases and bacteria.
Most Asked Bloodhound Questions
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