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The Plott Hound is a medium-sized, muscular dog that is soundly put-together. The short, glossy, dense coat usually comes in brindle but also comes in slate blue and buckskin; many with black saddles. It has a long, high-held tail when the dog is alert. The large, long ears are characteristic of the breed. The thigh muscles are lean and powerful giving it lots of energy. The strong feet have webbed toes.
Temperament: The breed's "all-in-the-family" background makes it a fine companion. Loyal and intelligent, the Plott Hound is quick to learn and quick to love and is good with children. Their personable natures are surely not evident on the trail. This large game hunter and scenthound has great courage. Determined, courageous and proud, it will play chicken with a 500-pound papa bear or a ticked off boar. The Plott has a curiously sharp and high-pitched voice, unlike the deep-throated howl common to other coonhounds. Socialize this breed at an early age and be sure to teach it simple obedience like walking on a leash. This breed tends to drool and slobber.
Height: 20-24 inches (51-61 cm.)
Weight: 45-55 pounds (20-25 kg.)
Health Problems: The Plott Hound is considered the hardiest of the coonhounds. It eats large quantities of food quickly, which makes it susceptible to gastric torsion and life-threatening twisting of the stomach. Do not exercise this dog after a big meal.
Living Conditions: The Plott Hound is not recommended for apartment life. They can live and sleep outdoors provided they have proper shelter. This breed has no road sense at all and should be kept in a safe area becase they have a tendency to wander.
Exercise: The Plott Hounds need a lot of physical exercise. This well-muscled and rather lean- boned dog has the endurance and stamina to work all day and well into the night. The Plott Hound should have chances to run free but is born a natural hunter and has a tendency to run off and hunt if they are not kept in a well fenced area while exercising off the lead.
Life Expectancy: About 12-14 years.
Grooming: The short coat of the Plott Hound is easy to groom. Comb and brush occasionally to remove the dead hair. Check the ears often to make sure they are clean and infection free. After hunting they should be checked for torn nails, split pads on their feet, torn ears, and fleas and ticks.
Origin: The Plott Hound is the only American hound without British ancestry. The breed's designated name honors its American founders and family tree. Seven generations of the Jonathan Plott family, beginning in the 1750's, bred their dogs exclusively within the family. A mix of bloodhounds and curs reportedly comprised the original stock. The dog's working claim to fame is coldtrailing bear and raccoons in the Appalachian, Blue Ridge, and Great Smoky Mountains of the Eastern United States. The Plott Hound is American through and through. The Plotts family have only rarely put these dogs on the market; so while the breed was officially recognized in 1946, it is still rare outside the southern states. Its is most efficient in the search for coyotes, wolves, and wildcats. They are extremely hardy and have superior hunting instincts. The breed has been carefully developed to be stronger and more persistent. They can make a good family companion but are seldom kept as one. Most people get these dogs for the hunt.
Group: Hound
Recognition: UKC, NKC, AKC, CKC, APRI, ACR
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