Bloodhound puppies and dogs

Breeds that are commonly mixed with Bloodhounds include Labrador Retrievers, Catahoulas, and Beagles. Characteristics of a Bloodhound mix can vary widely depending on the specific breeds involved, the individual dog’s genetics, and its upbringing. A few common Bloodhound mixes include:

• Labloodhound (Bloodhound + Labrador Retriever )

• Bloodahouli (Bloodhound + Catahoula)

• Bloodhound Beagle (Bloodhound + Beagle)

• Doberman Bloodhound (Bloodhound + Doberman)

A Bloodhound is a large breed of dog known for their incredible sense of smell and tracking abilities. They have a distinctive appearance with long, droopy ears and loose, wrinkled skin.

Bloodhounds are primarily used for tracking and trailing scents. They’re often employed by law enforcement agencies to locate missing persons, fugitives, and even lost pets. Their keen sense of smell allows them to follow a trail that might be days old, making them invaluable in search and rescue operations.

Bloodhounds generally live between 10 to 12 years. Of course, this can vary based on factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health care.

A Bloodhound is usually considered fully grown at around 18 to 24 months old. This is when they reach their full size and physical maturity. However, they may continue to mature mentally and develop their tracking skills with proper training and experience.

The modern Bloodhound comes from Belgium. They can be traced back to the Middle Ages when their ancestors, the St. Hubert Hounds, were bred at the St. Hubert Monastery and brought to Britain by Normans in the 1000s.

A Bloodhound has a distinctive appearance with a large head, long, hanging ears, and loose, wrinkled skin, especially around the face and neck. They have deep-set eyes and a pronounced muzzle. Their short and dense coats typically come in shades of black and tan, liver and tan, or red.

Bloodhounds are a big breed. On average, they stand around 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 80 to 110 pounds. However, some Bloodhounds can be larger, depending on genetics and overall health.

Yes, Bloodhounds shed. Their short, dense coats shed year-round, but it’s usually manageable with regular brushing to remove loose fur and minimize shedding.

Yes, Bloodhounds drool. Due to their loose jowls and big, floppy lips, they can produce quite a bit of drool, especially after eating or drinking.

No, Bloodhounds are not known for barking a lot. They’re generally a more laid-back and calm breed. However, they may bark to alert their family to something unusual or if they’re excited.

Yes, Bloodhounds are good pets for the right person or family. They’re affectionate, loyal, and have a gentle nature. However, they require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Their strong tracking instincts mean they enjoy activities that engage their sense of smell, such as tracking games or scent work.

Yes, Bloodhounds can be good with kids. They’re typically patient and tolerant, however, due to their large size and sometimes enthusiastic nature, it’s important to supervise interactions between Bloodhounds and young children to ensure everyone stays safe.

Yes, Bloodhounds can get along well with other dogs, especially if they’re socialized from a young age. They have a friendly and sociable nature, but as with any breed, individual personalities can vary. Proper introductions and socialization can help ensure harmonious interactions between Bloodhounds and other dogs.

Bloodhounds can be challenging to train. They’re independent thinkers and can be stubborn at times. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and praise, they can learn and excel in various training activities. While they may not be the easiest breed to train, they are certainly capable with the right approach.

Yes, Bloodhounds are smart dogs. They have an excellent sense of smell and are known for their tracking abilities. However, their intelligence can sometimes be overshadowed by their strong instincts and independent nature. They may not always follow commands blindly but prefer to think things through on their own terms.

No, Bloodhounds are not typically aggressive dogs. They’re generally gentle and friendly, both with people and other animals. However, like any breed, individual Bloodhounds can exhibit aggressive behavior if they’re not properly socialized or trained or if they feel threatened. Early socialization and training are crucial to ensuring a well-behaved and balanced Bloodhound.

No, Bloodhounds are not typically considered good guard dogs. They’re more likely to greet strangers with enthusiasm rather than suspicion. However, their size and bark might deter potential intruders simply due to their presence.

Bloodhounds can adapt to apartments, but they’re not ideal for them as large dogs who require a fair amount of space to move around and exercise. Plus, their deep bark can be quite loud in close quarters, which might not be appreciated by neighbors. If you live in an apartment, you’ll need to ensure your Bloodhound gets plenty of outdoor exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Yes, Bloodhounds are loyal. They are known for forming strong bonds with their family members and are devoted companions. Their affectionate nature and desire to be close to their people make them great family pets.

Like many purebred dogs, Bloodhounds can be prone to certain health issues. Some of the common health concerns associated with Bloodhounds include: 

• Hip and/or elbow dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from adequately meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Though the main complication with hip dysplasia is joint instability, the abnormalities present in elbow dysplasia often result in pieces of bone and/or cartilage breaking loose and irritating the joint tissues. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can be done to fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis. If you are rescuing a Bloodhound, have them checked out by a vet to see if they have or are prone to getting dysplasia, so you know what they will be able to handle regarding activities and exercise.

• Patellar luxation: Also known as slipped kneecaps, patellar luxation is a common problem in many dog breeds. It occurs when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place. This can cause pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases although many dogs lead normal lives without treatment.

• Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a thyroid malfunction that results in low hormone production and could cause obesity, low energy, and a brittle coat.

• Eye problems: Eye issues that could affect Bloodhounds include entropion, a genetic defect where one or both eyelids are inverted or roll inward and rub on the surface of the eye; ectropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls outward; dry eye; and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a progressive degenerative disease affecting the retina that eventually leads to blindness.

• Others: ear infections due to their floppy ears and skin problems. 

Regular veterinary check-ups, proper diet, and exercise can help mitigate some of these health risks.

No, Bloodhounds are not hypoallergenic. They shed and produce dander, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. If you or someone in your household has allergies, a Bloodhound might not be the best choice unless proper measures are taken to manage allergens.

Bloodhounds’ skin folds and ears can sometimes trap dirt and moisture, which can contribute to an odor. Regular grooming, including cleaning their ears and skin folds, can help keep them smelling fresh. Proper hygiene and care are essential in managing any potential odor issues with Bloodhounds.

Yes, Bloodhounds can see. Their deep-set eyes and droopy eyelids can give them a somewhat sleepy or hazy appearance, but they can see well enough to navigate their surroundings. Their primary strength lies in their sense of smell rather than their eyesight.

The cost of a Bloodhound can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,200 for a Bloodhound puppy. However, prices can go higher for Bloodhounds from well-known or champion bloodlines.

The easiest way to adopt a Bloodhound is through a rescue that specializes in the breed. A great place to start is starting a breed search on Adopt a Pet. The search will show you all the available Bloodhounds in your area.