A little look at life together.
Getting to know the Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is a powerful scent-tracking dog whose loose skin, long ears, and persistent nose are central to the breed's identity. Choose walking equipment and routines suitable for a large dog whose attention may lock onto a trail.
An everyday routine
Make space for substantial daily activity and short learning sessions. A busy weekend cannot replace a dependable weekday routine.
Coat care to plan for
A relatively straightforward coat still needs routine checks, appropriate brushing, and attention to nails and teeth. Ask a groomer to demonstrate tools that suit this coat.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
Bloodhound questions
How big does a full-grown Bloodhound get?
Males stand 25 to 27 inches tall and weigh 90 to 110 pounds, and females stand 23 to 25 inches and weigh 80 to 100 pounds. It is common to see hounds taller and heavier than that, so plan for a dog of 100 pounds or more.
Do Bloodhounds drool a lot?
Yes. Bloodhounds are among the droolingest breeds. The drooling is not constant and varies from dog to dog, but owners commonly carry a drool towel when they are out with their hounds.
Do Bloodhounds shed?
Yes. The short, dense coat sheds once or twice a year, and hounds with a thicker undercoat may shed year round. Weekly brushing helps. The long ears and skin wrinkles should be checked every day.
Do Bloodhounds bark a lot?
They are loud more than they are yappy. Most Bloodhounds are not barkers, but they have a deep, distinctive bay and will sound off when they catch an interesting scent. The breed is very vocal overall, so think about how close your neighbors are.
Are Bloodhounds lazy, and can one live in an apartment?
The sleepy porch dog is a myth. Bloodhounds are active dogs bred to follow a trail for hours, and they need long daily walks on a leash and a securely fenced yard. Apartment life rarely works and only with a serious commitment to exercise several times a day.
Are Bloodhounds good with children?
Most are, and the temperament is extremely affectionate. The catch is size. An active Bloodhound can knock a small child over without meaning to, so supervision around toddlers and infants is wise, and the breed fits best with children aged five and up.
Why is it called a Bloodhound?
The name is not about tracking blood. It most likely comes from "blooded hound," meaning a hound of pure or aristocratic breeding, after the care medieval monasteries took with their packs. In French-speaking parts of Europe the breed is still called the St. Hubert hound.
How long do Bloodhounds live?
The typical life expectancy is 10 to 12 years. That is a breed-wide figure, not a prediction for one dog.
