Plott is a pack hunting dog and was developed in North Carolina to hunt bear and wild boar more than 200 years ago. These dogs are still-used as pack-hunters apart from tracking and other sports. This different colored breed is different from Coonhound and is used to hunt bigger games.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United States
Used for: Hunting, tracking, sports, watchdog
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Color: Solid black and shades of brindle
Coat: Short, smooth, fine and glossy
Average Height: 20-25 inches
Average Weight: 40-75 pounds
Group: Hound
History and Domestication
Two young Plott brothers moved from Germany in 1750 and settled in America with their five Hanoverian hounds. However, one brother passed away during the voyage but the other one settled in North Carolina and bred his dogs. Originally, the stock consisted of a mix of Curs and Bloodhounds. For many generations, these dogs were bred by the members of the Plott family and came to be known as the Plott Hounds. They were used to hunt bear and raccoon. They were hardly ever put in the market and came to be known as their family name.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The Plott Hound is powerful and muscular dog. The medium-sized dog has a flat skull and a well-fitted skin. The moderately long muzzle has flews giving it a square appearance. The prominent eyes have black eye rims and are brown or hazel in color. The lips and nose are black. The medium-length ears hang close to the face and are broad-set. The feet are strong and have webbed toes.
Care, Grooming and Health
The Plott Hound has a short coat which is very easy to groom. Occasional combing and brushing is required to remove dead hair. Check the ears to ensure that they are infection-free. After a hunt, they should be checked for torn nails, torn ears, split pads and fleas and ticks.
The Plott Hound needs a lot of physical exercise along with a daily walk or jog. This dog has a great stamina and can work all day and night. Being a born hunter, he needs space to run free or else he might just run off. This is a hardy breed and eats very quickly which make it vulnerable to gastric torsion. Do not exercise them after a big meal.
Living Conditions
This dog can live and sleep outdoors if provided with shelter. He is not recommended for apartment life. He also has absolutely zero road sense and must be kept on-leash or in a safe enclosed area because he has a tendency to roam.
Temperament
Loyal and intelligent, the Plott Hound makes a fine companion. This dog is quick to learn and love. He is bright, confident, kind and courageous. He may take a while to warm up to strangers. These dogs get along well with other dogs and are good with children. However, they do have a mind of their own and require firm and consistent training. Their protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs.
