The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a distinctive American breed with a rich history and unique hunting characteristics. This article will explore several topics about this intelligent and energetic dog breed, from its origins, the best grooming practices, its popularity, and beyond.
1. These Dogs Originated in the U.S.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound’s history began in the 18th century when European settlers brought their hunting dogs to the U.S. The breed’s development began in the mid-1700s in the Appalachian Mountains, with Thomas Walker playing a crucial role in its early stages. In 1742, Walker brought an English Foxhound to Virginia, which was later bred with a famous stud dog known as Tennessee Lead. The litter laid the foundation for the modern-day Treeing Walker Coonhound.
The breed’s ancestry includes:
- English Foxhounds, which were brought to America in the 1700s, contributing stamina, speed, and hunting abilities.
- Virginia Hounds, an early American hunting dog that influenced the breed’s development.
- Walker Foxhounds, a direct hound ancestor named after Thomas Walker.
Despite its long history, the Treeing Walker Coonhound was only officially recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1945 and later by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2012.
2. The Breed’s Name Has Three Parts
For those unfamiliar with this breed, the name might cause curious hopes for an acrobatic dog at best and confusion at worst. We don’t mean to burst your bubble, but the Treeing Walker Coonhound does not walk on trees like a tightrope. Its name is best described in three parts as they each reflect a part of these pups’ development. First, “treeing” refers to a hunting style where dogs chase their prey up into trees and bark loudly until their human, i.e. the hunter, arrives to catch the game.
Next, “Walker” gives special recognition to and honors Thomas Walker of Virginia, who, as mentioned earlier, is arguably the father of this breed and played a key role in its development. Lastly, “Coonhound” describes this breed’s primary prey, raccoons–although they were also used to hunt other similarly sized prey, like possums.
3. These Coonhounds Are Muscled and Multi-Colored
This is a medium to large-sized breed with a sleek, athletic build. They have a smooth, fine, glossy coat that protects against the elements. The breed standard prefers a white-black-tan tri-colored coat, but judges will also accept these combinations for show dogs:
- White with black spots and tan trim
- Black with white marking and tan trim (saddleback or blanket back)
- White with tan spots
- White with black spots
In terms of body dimensions, females stand about 20 to 25 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh about 50-60 pounds, whereas males are typically larger and have a height of 22-27 inches and weigh between 60 and 70 pounds. These canines are also known for their long, hanging ears, dark eyes with a gentle demeanor, powerful hind legs, and cat-like, compact feet with well-arched toes and thick pads.
4. These Dogs Boast Little Grooming Requirements
These Coonhounds have relatively low grooming requirements due to their short, smooth coat. They do best with occasional baths, usually when they are excessively dirty, and owners can get away with wiping them down with a damp towel between showers. Weekly brushings can also help remove dust or debris.
In addition to their bath times, their nails need trimming every few weeks. Active dogs who wear their nails down on rough surfaces might be able to go a longer time without a manicure. Another important part of the grooming routine is the ear check. Their long, floppy ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to remove wax and prevent ear infections, especially after outdoor playtime or hunting sessions.
5. Treeing Walker Coonhounds Are Generally Friendly
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. Their sweetness isn’t limited just to their owners; they also get along well with everyone else in the household, including young children and other dogs. This friendliness doesn’t always translate to strangers as they are moderately vigilant and might need time to warm up to unfamiliar faces.
These dogs are also incredibly adaptable and will wag their tail in approval to any changes in their environment, such as living conditions, noise levels, weather, and alterations to their day-to-day routines. Additionally, the American Kennel Club describes them as smart, brave, and courteous. Overall, they know how to wind down at home and leave their hunting mentality outside.
6. These Coonhounds Need Exercise to Thrive
As a breed developed for hunting, Treeing Walker Coonhounds have high energy levels and require constant mental stimulation. While they might curl up with their owners at the end of the day, they are active and energetic during normal business hours. To keep them healthy and happy, owners should take them on long walks every day. These pups are also ideal hiking buddies who can keep up with more challenging terrain and will enjoy exploring as much as their fur parents.
It’s important to note that these dogs have more endurance than many breeds and may need more exercise than a daily walk. They will also enjoy any opportunity to play fetch in a large, secure outdoor space. This last detail is crucial because Treeing Walker Coonhounds have an intense prey drive and cannot also control the scents their noses pick up. Keeping them in an enclosed area or on a leash during walks and hikes will help prevent them from speeding away and chasing a poor squirrel up a tree.
7. These Dogs Are Highly Biddable
These pups are eager to learn and love pleasing their owners. However, training sessions require patience and consistency because these canines can also be stubborn and independent. That shouldn’t deter owners from enrolling their dogs in lessons or tackling sessions themselves as training can be a two-birds-with-one-stone scenario. For example, agility courses or field trials can channel their natural abilities while also providing the daily dose of physical activity their active bodies need.
Here are some tips for effective training:
- Use positive reinforcement techniques with treats and praise.
- Keep training sessions short to maintain their attention.
- Focus on recall training, as their keen sense of smell can lead them to wander.
- Start socialization early to help them adjust to new people and situations.
8. These Coonhounds Are Generally Healthy Dogs
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 12 to 13 years. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to health issues, including hip dysplasia, ear infections, and bloat. Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop or fit properly and can lead to limited mobility and deterioration over time.
They are more prone to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears. Therefore, regular ear checks and cleanings are critical to remove dirt and reduce the likelihood of infections or make note of suspicious symptoms before they worsen. Lastly, bloat is a painful condition where the stomach expands and twists on itself, potentially cutting off blood flow to the lower half of the body.
In addition to regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet and proper exercise can help maintain their health. Core vaccinations, including those for rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus, are essential to preserve the dogs’ health into adulthood.
9. Treeing Walker Coonhounds Are Fairly Uncommon
Although there are other much more popular breeds in the U.S., there is still good news when it comes to this breed’s beloved following. According to the AKC’s 2023 list of most popular dogs, these pups ranked No. 155 out of 201. They might not have made it to the top 50 or 100, but they still have dedicated enthusiasts who live and breathe for Treeing Walker Coonhounds.
Among owners, breeders, and admirers, they have earned the nickname “the People’s Choice” due to their friendly nature and hunting abilities. They are still popular among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts in the U.S., especially in the South where they originated. This consistent popularity helped the breed become officially recognized by the AKC in 2012– after a seventeen-year wait– and made them eligible to participate in more events since then.
10. These Dogs Have Unique Traits and Origins
Here are some more fun facts about the Treeing Walker Coonhound:
- The Treeing Walker Coonhound’s distinctive voice changes from a clear, ringing bay on the trail to a chopped bark after they run their prey up a tree.
- The breed’s development was influenced by a stolen dog named Tennessee Lead, whose origins remain a mystery but whose impact on the breed was significant.
- Treeing Walker Coonhounds excel so much at their job that some hunters have used them to track larger game like bears.
What’s the Bottom Line?
Whether in the field or at home, these dogs exhibit a unique blend of intensity and affection that endears them to hunters and families alike. Their distinctive appearance, melodious voice, and unwavering loyalty make them a truly special breed. However, potential owners should be prepared for their high exercise needs and the challenges that come with training a dog with such a strong hunting instinct.
With proper care, training, and plenty of outdoor activity, a Treeing Walker Coonhound can be a wonderful addition to an active household, bringing joy, excitement, and a touch of American heritage with each interaction.
