Also known as the Flemish hound, this is a one thousand year old breed of dogs. The Bloodhound thrives on tracking and hunting rather than enjoying its kill. The breed has actively been used for tracking and hunting, though it is not very easy to train.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Belgium
Used for: Tracking, hunting
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Color: Tan and Red
Coat: Smooth and short
Average Height: 25-27 inches
Average Weight: 80-100 pounds
Group: Hound
History and Domestication
The breed was not actually created, rather perfected by monks of St. Hubert in Belgium. The breed can be traced back to a thousand years. The Normans brought the breed back to England and later to US. Many breed throughout the world including Bavarian Mountain Hound and Brazilian Fila Brasileiro trace their lineage back to the Bloodhound.
Though most of them are tan and red but a white variety of the breed also existed in medieval Europe called Talbot hound which became extinct by 1600s but did contribute to development of many other breeds. The breed is an excellent tracker and hunter.
Standard Physical Characteristics
This is very powerful and massive hound. Its back is very strong and head is narrow but in proportion to its length. It has a black nose and a long muzzle. The eye color varies from deep hazel to yellow and the shape of eyes is like that of diamonds. There is lot of extra wrinkled skin that hangs loose around head and neck in deep folds. The ears are set low and hanging and are extremely long. Front legs are muscular and straight.
Care, Grooming and Health
This breed is easy to groom due to its smooth and shorthaired coat. Bathe them only when necessary and rub with a rough towel to leave their coat gleaming. They’re long, floppy ears need to be-washed regularly. The breed sheds moderately.
Bloodhounds need a lot of exercise along with a good run. They need to be taken on long daily walks. The breed has an incredible stamina and can also accompany you on hiking and walk for hours. However, the breed is prone to bloating and stomach cramps. They also suffer from hip dyslexia, ear infections and cherry eye.
Living Conditions
If provided with sufficient exercise, the Bloodhound will do okay in an apartment. But as the breed is active indoors, a medium-sized yard will be required.
Temperament
The bloodhound is a mild-mannered, kind and lovable dog. It is good-natured companion and also gentle and affectionate with children. In fact, they are so good natured that even if children climb on them or hurt them, they will just sit there and take it. That is why you might have to be cautious when they are around children. They are very energetic outdoors, determined and independent, they need a firm training but not heavy-handed. However, don’t be meek because the dog will show signs of willfulness. The breed takes off after interesting scents so it poses difficulty to grab their attention at times.
Adoption Groups
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