The Bloodhound is a loving and patient dog. They are great with kids and will tolerate everything they do, even if it means pulling their ears or climbing all over them. They are loyal and enjoy attention, but they do need a firm owner due to their strong personalities. It’s important for young children to understand that they need to be the pack leader, as the Bloodhound can be easily distracted by smells. They get along well with both humans and other dogs. They are part of a pack called the Sagaces, which hunts using their sense of smell. Despite being a hunting breed, they are not aggressive and are satisfied with tracking down their prey without harming it. They are tolerant of cats and enjoy the companionship of other dogs. Bloodhounds are a large breed that requires regular exercise. They are known for their endurance and can walk for hours at a time. It’s important to have a fenced yard as they have a tendency to wander. While they can live in an apartment, they will need regular walks to compensate for the lack of a yard. It’s worth noting that they may howl, which could be bothersome to neighbors. Bloodhounds have a short, silky coat that is easy to maintain. After washing them, simply dry their coat with a rough cloth to make it shine. However, they do snore and drool a lot. Additionally, it’s fascinating that almost any court will accept evidence from a Bloodhound’s scent tracking results.
Ahead, we look at Bloodhound dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Bloodhound, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Bloodhounds!
| Dog Breed | Bloodhound |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 80-100 lbs (average) |
| Height | 23-25″ (average) |
| Location | Europe |
| Ancestry | flemish hound, talbot hound |
| Date of Origin | middle ages |
| Group | tracking game |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Price | $800 – $1200 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
Reports of dogs tracking and discovering other animals can be traced back to the first century AD. However, it was during medieval Europe that the Bloodhound, believed to have originated from the St. Hubert Hounds brought by William the Conqueror in 1066, gained prominence. The breed’s survival owes much to Queen Victoria, who had a passion for dogs and entered one of her canines in a dog show in 1869. The Bloodhound’s tracking abilities were highly valued in Scotland, where it was known as the sleuth hound and used to track property raiders and livestock thieves. The name “Bloodhound” reflects its noble status as a breed kept by noblemen and abbots, as well as its pure breeding. While not commonly kept as household pets, Bloodhounds are highly regarded in law enforcement and search and rescue work.
Despite their ancient history, Bloodhounds have experienced fluctuations in popularity over the years. Although recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are not commonly found in households. Nevertheless, their exceptional tracking skills make them invaluable assets in law enforcement and search and rescue operations.
🐕 Bloodhound Appearance
The Bloodhound is a sturdy, robust dog with a sturdy back considering its height. It has a remarkably sensitive black nose and a head that is long and narrow in comparison to its height and length. The breed appears rather melancholy because of its profoundly sunken golden or hazel eyes. This depressing appearance is caused by the upper eyelids’ weight pulling down the lower ones. Children like playing with their long, drooping ears, as well as the skin that is severely wrinkled or has folds around the head and neck. To retain the smell particles while tracking, these folds have a role. The Bloodhound has a striking appearance, with a tail held high, a dewlap that is quite noticeable, and powerful, muscular legs. They have soft hair on the ears and head and short, thick, solid hair on the body, with sporadic splashes of white on the breast, foot, and tip of the stern.
| 👀 Eye Color | Hazel |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Black, Brown, Red, Fawn, Sable |
⚡ Fun Fact: Bloodhound dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is quite gentle and well-mannered. They are kind and sympathetic for kids, and they will humbly put up with all of your kids’ mischief. Because they are so accepting, they may need to be rescued from kids who might damage them unintentionally because they won’t recoil. Bloodhound puppies are exuberant and energetic, but as they become older, they eventually calm down. They are a breed that never readily accepts rules and obedience; instead, they follow their noses and can go off in search of a fascinating route. They are experts in tracking for search and rescue and in law enforcement where they are employed to trace fugitive convicts since by nature they will follow a trail to its completion. When on a stroll, a leash is necessary to keep them on task. Do not anticipate complete obedience from them; it won’t happen. They do have a strong temperament and will appreciate and require a strong leader. They respond best to an owner who is naturally powerful and calm, while noisy, demanding owners will only highlight their willful side. If no one is home, they may be territorial and may bark to let you know someone is around.
🤝 Are Bloodhounds Friendly or Aggressive?
Bloodhound dogs are known for their friendly nature and easily get along with strangers, making them a great choice for those who want a welcoming and social pet. They are also very kid-friendly and enjoy being in the company of children. Additionally, Bloodhounds are cat-friendly and can coexist peacefully with feline companions. They are also dog-friendly, making them suitable for families who want to have multiple dogs or participate in dog meetups and socialize with other canines. Moreover, Bloodhounds are considered one of the best breeds for elderly people, as they can provide companionship and support to older individuals.
This breed is known for being:
- Stubborn
- Independent
- Affectionate
- Gentle
- Outright
- Tempered
🐩 Bloodhound Care & Maintenance
Bloodhounds make excellent companions, but because they are sturdy dogs, they do require some maintenance and upkeep. Some people have the misconception that Bloodhounds are those dogs who enjoy sunbathing on front porches, yet this couldn’t be further from the truth. These canines like being active and can walk for hours on end without stopping! They are active as puppies, so keeping up with them will need eyes in the back of your head. As they become older, they do get less excitable and more manageable. These dogs are suitable as indoor pets, but bear in mind that they are droolers and that the home will need to be thoroughly cleaned after just one headshake. As a breed of dog, they are simple to maintain clean; all that is required is a routine bath and a thorough drying off afterward. The shedding may be controlled by brushing during the warm months, but their eyes, ears, and skin folds require the most maintenance. To keep them clear of trash and insects, these delicate places require ongoing cleaning. If your dog’s eyes are discharged or if your dog’s ears smell (typically the result of an infection), call your veterinarian right once. Bloodhounds are large dogs that have a high level of energy, thus they frequently become hungry. Consider giving your pet three smaller meals throughout the day rather of one large one to keep them satisfied and prevent bloat, which is a risk with this breed. If your dog’s stomach bends in on itself, shutting off the blood supply, this situation might swiftly deteriorate. Gastric torsion is a medical issue that requires emergency veterinarian care.
Bloodhound dogs have a moderate amount of shedding, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. By regularly brushing them, you can minimize the amount of hair that they shed. The extent of shedding can vary depending on their overall health and the specific breed they belong to. In terms of bathing, it is generally recommended to give bloodhounds a bath every 4-6 weeks to keep them clean and maintain their hygiene.
🍖 Food: We recommend 3 cups daily, costing you about $2.00 – $2.25 daily, or around $60.00 – $67.50 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Bloodhound dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 8 miles per week, which equates to about 60 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Bloodhound dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
❤️🩹 Bloodhound Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Bloodhound Dog Breed can be:
- Otitis Externa
- Entropion
- Gastric Torsion
- Cherry Eye
- Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
While minor concerns include:
- Bone And Joint Problems
- Hypothyroidism
🤧 Important: Is Bloodhound hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Bloodhound.
⚡ Bloodhound Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Bloodhound a great choice for families with young children?
The Bloodhound’s kind, patient, and loveable nature makes them a great choice for families with young children. They are very tolerant of children’s antics and will put up with pretty much anything, making them a gentle and affectionate companion.
Is the Bloodhound breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
While apartment living is possible with a Bloodhound, they do require daily walks to compensate for not having a yard. They have a lot of energy and need exercise to stay healthy and happy. It’s important to note that if they howl, it could test your neighbor’s patience.
How much exercise does a Bloodhound require compared to other breeds?
Bloodhounds require a significant amount of exercise compared to some other breeds. They are big and strong dogs with incredible stamina, so they need daily exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They are known for their ability to walk for hours at a time.
Is the Bloodhound breed known for being good with other pets?
Bloodhounds are generally good with other pets, including cats. They are known to be tolerant and can socialize well with both people and other dogs. However, it’s always important to introduce them to other pets gradually and under supervision to ensure a positive interaction.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bloodhound?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bloodhound include the Basset Hound and the Great Dane. These breeds have similar temperaments and exercise needs, but it’s important to note that all dogs require proper care and attention.
What are the common health issues that Bloodhounds are prone to?
Bloodhounds are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, bloat, ear infections, and skin problems. Regular vet check-ups and proper care are important to keep them healthy and address any potential health concerns.
Are Bloodhounds known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Bloodhounds are known for being stubborn and independent thinkers, which can make them more challenging to train compared to some other breeds. They are led by their noses and can easily get distracted by interesting scents. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key in their training.
Are Bloodhounds more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Bloodhounds can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if they are not properly trained and socialized. They are very loyal and attached to their owners, so it’s important to gradually teach them to feel comfortable being alone for short periods of time.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Bloodhound that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Bloodhound that are suitable for people with allergies include the Irish Water Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog, and Poodle. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce less dander and are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Bloodhound are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller dogs similar to the Bloodhound, such as the Basset Hound or the Beagle, can be a better fit. These breeds have similar temperaments and characteristics but are more suitable for smaller living spaces.
Is the Bloodhound breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Bloodhound breed is generally known to be good with children, including those with special needs. Their kind and patient nature make them a gentle and understanding companion for children with different abilities.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Bloodhound?
The grooming needs of the Bloodhound are relatively low compared to some other breeds. They have a smooth shorthaired coat that is easy to groom. A rub down with a rough towel after bathing can make their coat gleam. However, it’s important to note that they are droolers and tend to snore and howl, which may require additional cleaning and maintenance.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Bloodhound dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
