Introduction
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a lively, sharp-minded, and amiable hound breed with a rich heritage. Originating from the American Foxhound, these dogs have been skillfully bred since the mid-1700s to assist hunters in tracking and isolating game within dense forests, especially raccoons. Their development is credited to a Virginian named Thomas Walker, who refined the breed in the rugged Appalachian Mountains.
The breed earned recognition from the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1945 and later from the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2012. Though primarily a working dog, the Treeing Walker Coonhound’s affectionate nature and eagerness to learn make them a wonderful addition to the right family home.
Caring for a Treeing Walker Coonhound
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a medium-to-large hound standing 20–25 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 50–70 pounds when fully grown. They boast a short, sleek coat that's easy to manage and requires minimal grooming. Like all hounds, special care must be given to their large, floppy ears to prevent potential ear infections.
These athletic dogs thrive in active households, yet you’ll often find them enjoying a cozy nap on the couch. Bred for stamina and endurance, they need far more than a casual daily stroll. Include them in your runs, hikes, or hunting trips to keep them physically and mentally fulfilled.
While intelligent and highly trainable, Treeing Walker Coonhounds retain a streak of independence due to their working dog heritage. Their distinctive and loud vocalizations will alert you to visitors, whether it's a mail carrier or a bustling squirrel nearby. Generally friendly with people and fellow dogs, they require early socialization. Because they follow their keen noses and track scents over long distances, a securely fenced yard is ideal if you cannot supervise their outdoor activities closely.
Though they excel as working dogs, the Treeing Walker Coonhound’s warm temperament and adaptability also make them excellent family companions when given the right environment.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Health Issues
With an average lifespan of 12–13 years, the Treeing Walker Coonhound is generally a healthy breed with minimal inherited conditions. However, as with most large hounds, prospective owners should be aware of a few specific health concerns.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is an inherited condition commonly seen in larger breeds, characterized by the abnormal formation of the hip socket, resulting in an unstable joint. This instability causes abnormal joint movement, leading to inflammation, scar tissue buildup, and pain.
Typical signs include limping, stiffness particularly after rest, or altered gait. Diagnosis requires X-ray imaging performed under sedation, and dysplasia can be detected in dogs as young as 16 weeks.
Most cases are managed through weight control, joint supplements, laser therapy, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation. Severe situations may call for surgical intervention to improve joint function and quality of life.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Some dogs are genetically prone to autoimmune thyroiditis, where their bodies produce antibodies that damage the gland, diminishing hormone production.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, hair thinning or loss, recurring skin infections, and changes in behavior. In rare cases, neurological issues like facial paralysis or seizures may occur.
Diagnosis is through blood tests measuring thyroid hormone and antibody levels. The condition requires lifelong hormone replacement therapy, which is generally well-tolerated by dogs.
Ear Infections
Those long, floppy ears of the Treeing Walker Coonhound create a perfect environment for moisture and dirt to accumulate, making ear infections (otitis externa) a common issue. Routine ear cleaning with a gentle, pH-balanced dog ear cleanser helps minimize infection risk. Veterinarians often treat infections with topical medications.
Repeated ear infections might indicate underlying allergies. If regular cleaning doesn’t prevent infections, consult your veterinarian to explore any allergy-related causes.
What To Feed a Treeing Walker Coonhound
Treeing Walker Coonhounds don’t have unique dietary needs and thrive on high-quality, balanced dog foods approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Highly active working dogs might benefit from a calorie-dense performance diet if they struggle to maintain weight on standard maintenance food, but this isn't commonly required. Whether you choose wet or dry food, catering to your dog’s preference works well.
How To Feed a Treeing Walker Coonhound
This breed generally does well with two to three well-measured meals per day. Puppies need more frequent feedings, about three to four meals daily. Because of their intelligence, providing puzzle feeders or interactive toys can help stave off boredom during meals.
How Much Should You Feed a Treeing Walker Coonhound?
Feeding amounts will vary depending on the brand and formula of dog food chosen. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate calorie intake based on your dog’s age, activity level, and body condition. Regularly monitoring their weight and physique is essential.
Remember to factor in calories from treats, dental chews, and training rewards to avoid overfeeding.
Nutritional Tips for Treeing Walker Coonhounds
While a balanced diet covers most nutritional needs, highly active Treeing Walker Coonhounds may benefit from supplements supporting joint health and omega-3 fatty acids. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate products tailored to your dog’s lifestyle.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Personality and Temperament
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are known for their steady temperaments, intelligence, and affectionate nature. They thrive on social interaction and typically get along well with children and other dogs, especially when introduced thoughtfully and socialized early.
Given their hunting background, introductions to cats and smaller animals should be cautious, as their natural prey drive might prompt chasing behaviors.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Behavior
Bred to be hunters, these dogs display high endurance and athleticism, requiring ample exercise. Daily hour-long walks are the bare minimum, and they excel as companions for running and hiking several times a week. Participating in field trials is an excellent way to tap into their instinctual tracking and hunting skills, even for non-hunters.
Their hallmark is a distinctive howling bark, known as a bay, which signals to hunters in the field. This vocal trait may not be ideal for apartment living or houses with close neighbors.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Training
These hounds are intelligent and eager to please, but their youthful exuberance and independent streak can test patience. Described as slow to mature, the high-energy puppy phase can extend until they are two years old or more.
Early socialization starting between 8 to 10 weeks is crucial to developing confidence. Combine this with positive reinforcement training methods to raise a disciplined and reliable companion.
Fun Activities for Treeing Walker Coonhounds
- Field trials
- Water races
- Nighttime hunting (nite hunts)
- Agility courses
- Traditional hunting outings
Treeing Walker Coonhound Grooming Guide
The Treeing Walker Coonhound sports a sleek, short coat that is low maintenance and doesn’t require frequent grooming.
Skin Care
They have no special skin care requirements, but if you notice any changes in their skin’s appearance or texture, contact your veterinarian for advice.
Coat Care
A monthly bath using a gentle dog shampoo is sufficient to keep their short coat clean and healthy, or more often if they get particularly dirty. Though moderate shedders, weekly brushing helps manage fur and keeps their coat shiny.
Eye Care
There are no special eye care needs for this breed; however, if you observe redness, cloudiness, discharge, or other abnormalities, consult your vet promptly.
Ear Care
Long, floppy ears make Treeing Walker Coonhounds more prone to ear infections. Frequent inspections and cleaning at least weekly with a proper dog ear cleanser reduce infection risk in dogs without allergies.
If infections continue despite diligent care, discuss potential allergy issues with your veterinarian.
Considerations for Pet Parents
Though primarily bred as working dogs, Treeing Walker Coonhounds can make devoted family companions for owners able to meet their exercise and attention needs. Besides routine ear cleaning, they require minimal maintenance and have a robust health profile.
They are very vocal even with training, so they are not the best fit for homes with close neighbors, but they are typically gentle with children and other dogs. Introduce smaller animals and cats with caution due to their natural chase instinct.
After an active day, these affectionate hounds love nothing more than curling up beside their family to unwind.
Are Treeing Walker Coonhounds high-energy?
Absolutely! Treeing Walker Coonhounds are spirited and active dogs requiring at least moderate daily exercise to stay content and healthy. Activities such as hiking, agility courses, or endurance outings suit their natural stamina and tracking abilities perfectly.
Do Treeing Walker Coonhounds like to cuddle?
Yes, these social dogs often enjoy cozying up with their favorite humans after a full day of play and activity.
What are Treeing Walker Coonhounds best known for?
They are renowned for their incredible talent to rapidly track game and for their unique, resonant bugle-like bark that can be heard echoing for miles in the wilderness.
