Plott Hound: The American Trailblazer and Iconic Canine Companion

INTRODUCTION

The Plott Hound is an American coonhound breed known for its versatile hunting abilities, strong work ethic, and keen sense of smell. Although it may not be as popular as other coonhound breeds, the Plott Hound is highly regarded for its skill in tracking and treeing a wide variety of game. Its historical significance is tied closely to hunting, making it a truly American breed that has been instrumental in the history of game hunting in the United States.

HISTORY AND ORIGIN

The Plott Hound traces its lineage back to German immigrants, specifically to the Plott family who settled in North Carolina in the 1750s. Originally, the breed was a type of coonhound used for boar hunting, descended from Hanoverian Schweisshunds—a breed known for its tracking abilities. The Plotts were keen hunters and refined their hound for tracking and treeing game in the Appalachian Mountains.

Over the years, the Plott Hound was selectively bred for hunting characteristics, transitioning from primarily a boar hound to a versatile coonhound. Its capabilities extended to raccoon hunting, bear hunting, and even mountain lion hunting, among other game.

In modern times, the Plott Hound has received recognition from various kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2006. Today, the breed is still employed for its original purpose—hunting—but it also serves as a loyal family pet for those who appreciate its qualities.

APPEARANCE AND PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

The Plott Hound is a medium-to-large-sized breed, standing between 20 to 27 inches at the shoulders and weighing approximately 40 to 75 pounds. The breed is well-muscled and agile, built for endurance and strength—traits necessary for long hunting expeditions.

Distinctive facial features include a clear, keen eye and well-shaped ears that are medium in length. The coat is short and fine, typically brindle, but other solid colors are also permissible. The breed’s coloring offers it some camouflage while in the woods, making it more effective as a hunting dog.

The Plott Hound’s physical characteristics—its agility, endurance, and keen senses—have been tailored over generations for the purpose of hunting. Whether treeing raccoons or tracking larger game, its build reflects both its historical roles and its modern appeal as a working dog and companion.

BEHAVIOR AND PERSONALITY

The Plott Hound is known for its keen intelligence, courage, and strong work ethic. These dogs are not just hunters; they are also protective, making them effective watchdogs when trained properly.

Though primarily bred for hunting, Plott Hounds can adapt to family life and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. However, their strong prey drive may not make them ideal companions for smaller pets.

Plott Hounds are vocal dogs, known for their distinct coonhound bawl. This vocalization is not only an expression of their enthusiasm during a hunt but can also signify alertness when they perceive potential threats. Training can mitigate excessive barking but won’t entirely suppress their natural tendencies.

DIET AND NUTRITION

Given their active lifestyle, Plott Hounds require a high-protein diet to maintain their energy levels. Premium dog food that is rich in meat-based protein is often recommended.

While they are generally hardy dogs, they can be prone to obesity if overfed and under-exercised. Monitoring calorie intake is crucial, especially for those that do not actively participate in hunting or other high-energy activities.

Regular vet consultations are essential for a tailored diet plan, especially when transitioning between life stages or when dealing with specific health conditions.

EXERCISE, CARE, AND TRAINING

Plott Hounds are energetic dogs that require ample exercise. Long walks, hikes, and, naturally, hunting excursions are ideal activities for this breed. Mental stimulation is equally important to keep them engaged and content.

Positive reinforcement is generally effective for training, but it’s essential to start young, especially if the dog will be a family pet. Socialization is also crucial, given their strong prey drive.

Plott Hounds are best suited for homes with ample space where they can roam, sniff, and explore. While they can adapt to various living conditions, they are not ideal for apartment life due to their high energy levels and exercise needs.

GROOMING

Grooming requirements for the Plott Hound are relatively low. Their short coats require occasional brushing to remove loose fur and distribute oils.

Ear cleaning and nail trimming are standard grooming tasks for this breed. Due to their floppy ears, they can be prone to ear infections, making regular checks essential.

Regular grooming not only keeps the Plott Hound clean but also provides an opportunity to check for signs of skin irritation, ticks, or other potential health issues.

INTERESTING FACTS AND MYTHS

Facts

• State Dog: The Plott Hound is the state dog of North Carolina.
• Versatile Hunter: Known for tracking and treeing a wide variety of game, from raccoons to bears.
• American Original: One of the few coonhound breeds not descended from the Foxhound.

Myths

• Just a Hunting Dog: While they excel at hunting, Plott Hounds can also be affectionate family pets.
• Aggressive Nature: They are generally good-natured dogs but can be protective when needed.
• Hard to Train: Though they are independent thinkers, Plott Hounds are trainable with consistent, positive reinforcement.

CONCLUSION

The Plott Hound is a breed that embodies American history, showcasing versatility, intelligence, and a strong work ethic. While they may be best known for their hunting prowess, they can also make loyal family companions when properly trained and socialized. Their enduring appeal lies in their multi-faceted capabilities—able to excel in the hunting field while still being loving pets in the home. As such, the Plott Hound holds a special place both in American culture and in the hearts of those who get to know this exceptional breed.