Plott Hound vs Redbone Coonhound

The Plott Hound and Redbone Coonhound have rich histories as scent hounds. Both breeds are known for their hunting skills and tenacity in tracking game. Let’s explore their origins and classification. Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between these two dog breeds.

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Physical Attributes

Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds have distinct physical traits. Their size, weight, and coat characteristics set them apart. Let’s examine these key features.

Size Comparison

Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds are both large breeds, but there are some differences in their height.
Plott Hounds typically stand between 20 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Males are usually larger than females.
Redbone Coonhounds are slightly taller on average. They measure about 21 to 27 inches in height.
When you see these dogs side by side, you’ll notice the Redbone Coonhound often appears a bit more imposing due to its extra height.

Weight Statistics

The weight of these breeds can vary, but there are some general ranges to keep in mind. Plott Hounds usually weigh between 40 to 60 pounds. Females tend to be on the lighter end of this range.

Redbone Coonhounds are typically heavier, weighing in at 45 to 70 pounds. Remember, individual dogs may fall outside these ranges based on diet, exercise, and genetics.

Coat Type and Grooming Needs

Both breeds have short, dense coats that protect them during hunts. However, there are some differences in texture and care needs. Plott Hounds have a fine, smooth coat that’s easy to maintain. They shed moderately and need brushing once a week.

Redbone Coonhounds have a slightly coarser coat. It’s still short but may feel rougher to the touch. They also shed moderately and benefit from weekly brushing. Neither breed needs frequent baths unless they get dirty during outdoor activities.

Coat colors differ significantly:

Plott Hounds: Usually brindle in various shades
Redbone Coonhounds: Solid red color

Both breeds have low-maintenance coats compared to long-haired dogs. Regular brushing and occasional baths will keep their coats healthy and shiny.

Temperament and Personality

Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds have distinct personalities that affect their suitability as pets. These breeds share some traits but differ in key areas that may impact your choice.

Instincts and Prey Drive

Both breeds have strong hunting instincts. Plott Hounds are known for their tenacity when tracking prey. Their prey drive is intense, making them excellent hunting companions. You’ll need to keep them on a leash in open areas.
Redbone Coonhounds also have a high prey drive. Their keen sense of smell makes them adept at tracking. These dogs may chase small animals in your yard.
Both breeds can be challenging to train due to their independent nature. Early socialization is crucial to manage their hunting instincts around other pets.

Affection and Social Needs

Redbone Coonhounds are affectionate dogs that bond closely with their families. They enjoy cuddling and physical affection. These dogs thrive on human companionship and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too often.
Plott Hounds are also friendly but may be more independent. They form strong bonds with their owners but can be aloof with strangers. Both breeds are good with children when properly socialized.
These energetic dogs need plenty of playtime and exercise. Daily walks and play sessions are essential to keep them happy and prevent destructive behaviors.

Adaptability and Lifestyle

Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds are adaptable but have specific needs. They’re not ideal for apartment living due to their size and energy levels. Both breeds prefer homes with yards where they can run and play.
These dogs don’t tolerate being alone for long periods. If you work long hours, consider a different breed or arrange for dog-sitting.
Both breeds have a loud, distinctive bay that may not suit noise-sensitive neighborhoods. Their strong scenting abilities can lead to wandering if not properly contained.
Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds need active lifestyles. They excel in hunting, tracking, and scent work. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Training and Intelligence

Both Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds are smart dogs with a strong drive to hunt. Their training needs and problem-solving skills differ in some key ways.

Trainability and Commands

Plott Hounds can be stubborn during training. You’ll need patience and consistency to teach them commands. Use positive reinforcement and keep sessions short to hold their attention. Redbone Coonhounds are more eager to please. They learn commands faster than Plotts. Still, their hunting instincts can distract them. Start training early to curb unwanted behaviors.

Both breeds respond well to:

Basic obedience commands
Scent work exercises
Recall training

Intelligence Rating and Problem-Solving Abilities

Plott Hounds show high intelligence in tracking and hunting. They excel at solving scent-related puzzles. You’ll find they can figure out complex trails with ease. Redbone Coonhounds are also smart, especially when it comes to following scents. They may not be as quick to solve non-scent puzzles as some other breeds.

Both dogs benefit from mental stimulation:

Hide-and-seek games
Puzzle toys
Nose work activities

These activities keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom.

Exercise and Hunting Capabilities

Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds are active hunting breeds with high energy levels. They need plenty of exercise and excel at tracking game.

Exercise Needs

Both breeds require lots of daily activity. You’ll need to give them at least an hour of intense exercise each day. A fenced yard is ideal for them to run and play.

Plott Hounds have slightly higher energy. They may need more rigorous exercise like long hikes or runs. Redbones are also energetic but may tire a bit sooner.

Consider these exercise options:

Long walks or jogs
Fetch games
Swimming
Agility courses

Without enough activity, these dogs can become restless or destructive. Regular exercise keeps them healthy and happy.

Hunting Skills and Techniques

Both breeds are skilled hunting dogs with strong prey drives. They excel at tracking and treeing game like raccoons.

Plott Hounds are known for their:

Tenacious tracking ability
Loud, distinctive bark when treeing prey
Endurance on long hunts

Redbone Coonhounds are prized for their:

Excellent sense of smell
Ability to swim and track through water
Cold trailing skills

You’ll find both breeds have stamina for long hunts. They can work in rough terrain and harsh weather. Their loud voices help hunters locate them when they’ve treed game.

Health and Longevity

Both Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds are hardy breeds. They have some health issues to watch out for, though. Proper care can help these dogs live long, happy lives.

Common Health Concerns

Plott Hounds may get hip dysplasia, a joint problem. Watch for limping or trouble moving. They can also have eye issues.
Redbone Coonhounds can get ear infections. Check and clean their ears often. They might also get hip problems like Plott Hounds.
Both breeds can become overweight. Give them good food and lots of exercise. This helps avoid weight-related health issues.

Average Lifespan and Care

Plott Hounds live about 12-14 years. Redbone Coonhounds have a similar lifespan of 11-12 years.

To help your dog live longer:

Feed them high-quality food
Exercise them daily
Visit the vet regularly
Keep them at a healthy weight

Both breeds need vet check-ups at least once a year. Twice a year is even better. This helps catch health problems early. Keep their teeth clean and nails trimmed. Brush their coat weekly to remove dirt and spread skin oils.

Behavioural Traits

Plott Hounds and Redbone Coonhounds have distinct personalities that shape their interactions with humans and other animals. These traits impact their suitability as family pets and working dogs.

Protection and Watchdog Rating

Both breeds have strong watchdog abilities. Plott Hounds are more territorial and protective. They’ll alert you to strangers but aren’t typically aggressive. Redbones are friendly and less likely to act as guards.

Plott Hounds:

High territorial protection instinct
Moderate bite risk
Strong watchdog rating

Redbone Coonhounds:

Lower territorial instinct
Low bite risk
Moderate watchdog rating

You can trust both breeds to bark at potential threats. Plotts are more likely to act defensively if they sense danger to their family.

Barking and Noise Levels

These hounds are vocal dogs. Their barks and howls can be loud and frequent. Plott Hounds have a deep, booming bark. They tend to be more restrained in their vocalizations unless they’re on a hunt or sense a threat. Redbone Coonhounds are known for their melodious howl. They’re more likely to “sing” and can be quite noisy. Their barking frequency is higher than Plotts.

To manage noise:

Train early
Provide mental stimulation
Don’t leave them alone for long periods

Remember, these breeds were developed to bay while hunting. Some barking is inevitable.

Roaming and Hunting Instincts

Both breeds have strong hunting instincts. This affects their behavior at home and outdoors.