01/Overview
As the Official State Dog of North Carolina, the Plott Hound holds a revered position both in hunting lore and in state pride. A strong and determined hunter, the "Plott" brings its keen sense of smell and baying instinct to the serious task of tracking and trailing wild boar and bear. Bred by generations of the family for which it is named, this brindle-colored canine remains a loyal companion and protective household member today.
Highlights
02/History
The history of the Plott Hound is often expressed through tales of hunting big game in the American frontier. Tracing its roots back to the 18th century, the breed's story began when two young brothers, Johannes and Enoch Plott, sailed from Germany to America, bringing with them five Hanoverian Hounds. Those dogs, known for their remarkable hunting prowess, became the foundation of what we know today as the Plott Hound.
Upon arriving in America, the Plott brothers settled in North Carolina where they began developing their own line of hounds. Over the years, their dogs gained a reputation for their unmatched skill in hunting bear and wild boar. The dogs weren't merely hunting companions, however, as they played an integral role in the Plott family's survival in the wilderness of Western North Carolina.
It wasn't until the 20th century that the Plott received formal recognition. In 1946, the United Kennel Club (UKC) was the first major organization to recognize the breed. The American Kennel Club (AKC) followed suit half a century later, granting the Plott Hound official recognition in 2006. The breed's brindle coat remains one of its distinguishing features, although a few other colors are also acceptable.
Today, the Plott Hound stands as North Carolina's State Dog, a testament to its profound influence and historical significance in the region. As a breed, the Plott has retained its core characteristics thanks to selective breeding practices and a commitment to preserving its hunting instincts.
03/Appearance
Adult male Plott Hounds typically stand between 20 and 25 inches tall at the shoulder, while mature females range from 20 to 23 inches in height.
Weight is proportional to height, with male Plotts weighing between 50 and 60 pounds, with females slightly lighter, weighing from 40 to 55 pounds.
The body of a Plott Hound exhibits a somewhat square proportion, with the length of the body roughly equal to the height at the withers. This supports the breed's well-balanced and sturdy appearance. Substance-wise, the Plott has a medium build, being neither too light nor excessively coarse. This optimal combination of square proportion and moderate substance enables this running, baying, and treeing hound to have the agility and endurance needed for extended mountain hunts.
Texture: The coat of a Plott Hound is of medium length, smooth to the touch, and reasonably fine in texture. It safeguards the hound from the elements during a hunt, and offers sufficient protection on land and in water in both fair and inclement weather conditions.
Standard Colors
04/Consider
Owning a Plott Hound can be an enriching experience for individuals and families alike. Their legacy as hunters makes them astute, resilient, and full of energy. Yet, beyond the hunt, Plotts are known for their loyalty, affection, and steadfast nature as household pets. However, owning a Plott is not a decision to be taken lightly, as they come with specific needs and considerations, especially given their history and natural instincts.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
The Plott Hound is generally a healthy and robust breed, but like all dogs, it can be prone to certain health conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and consistent exercise can help to ensure that a Plott enjoys a long and healthy life. Lifespan: The average lifespan for the Plott Hound is around 12 to 14 years. With proper care, regular check-ups, and early detection of potential health issues, many Plotts can live out their life in good health.
The Plott Hound, with its deep hunting traditions, offers a unique blend of determination, intelligence, and loyalty. For novice owners, the Plott might be a challenging choice, but with understanding and consistent training these hounds can become wonderful companions. Their sensitive nature means they respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle training methods, as harsh treatments or sudden environmental changes can be unsettling for them.
Despite their independent thinking, rooted in their hunting background, Plott Hounds do not enjoy being left alone for extended periods. Extended solitude can result in signs of anxiety or even destructive behaviors. While they typically get along well with other dogs, especially if raised together, their hunting instincts can sometimes surface around smaller animals. It is therefore essential to monitor introductions and all interactions.
Families with young children will find the Plott to be patient and good-natured. However, interactions between any hound and young kids should always be supervised to ensure safety and mutual respect. Plotts are generally dog-friendly, but as with all dogs, individual personalities will vary, making early socialization crucial.
Regarding strangers, Plott Hounds can initially show some reservation. They possess a protective streak towards their family members, but with the right introductions and consistent socialization, they can warm up to visitors and become more welcoming.
Exercise Expectations
In terms of exercise needs, the Plott Hound is not a couch potato. They require regular and vigorous activity to channel their energy and curb potential destructive behaviors that might arise from boredom. Daily walks are a must, but merely strolling around the block might not suffice for this athletic breed. They benefit greatly from longer hikes, runs, or extended play sessions in a securely fenced area. The energy level of the Plott Hound breed is high, reflecting its hunting background. They thrive when engaged in activities that challenge both their body and mind. Incorporating fetch, tug-of-war, and scent tracking games into their exercise routine can be particularly beneficial and enjoyable for them. Despite their robustness, it's essential to gauge the intensity of the exercise sessions. While the Plott Hound loves a good challenge and can sustain long durations of activity, it's crucial to ensure they don't overexert themselves, especially in extreme weather conditions. Regular breaks, access to fresh water, and a watchful eye can help prevent potential issues. Playfulness is another inherent trait of the Plott Hound. They often enjoy interactive games with their human companions or even other dogs. This playful nature, combined with their exercise needs, makes them great companions for active individuals or families.
Adopting or purchasing a Plott Hound means inviting an active, loyal, and spirited companion into one's home. Understanding their unique temperament and needs is vital for ensuring harmonious coexistence.
Plott Hounds can adapt to apartments, but it's essential to recognize their energy levels. While they might be content to lounge indoors for periods, they'll require regular outdoor excursions to expend energy and satisfy their curiosity. A home with a yard would be ideal, though it's crucial that the yard be securely fenced to prevent them from chasing after scents or small animals.
When it comes to weather tolerance, Plott Hounds are fairly versatile. Their dense coat provides some protection against colder climates, though in extreme cold, it's advisable to limit outdoor exposure or consider protective gear like jackets.
In contrast, during hot and humid conditions, Plott Hounds, like all dogs, can be susceptible to overheating. It's essential to provide ample shade, fresh water, and possibly indoor retreats during peak heat hours. Always be watchful for signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Living with a Plott Hound also means being attuned to their innate hunting instincts and vocal nature. The breed's propensity to bay, especially when they pick up an interesting scent or spot a potential prey animal, might require some acclimatization, especially for those unaccustomed to more vocal breeds.
05/Puppies
The sight of a Plott Hound puppy, with its curious eyes and playful demeanor, can melt anyone's heart. These young canines are not just bundles of joy but also embody the future of the breed, carrying forward its rich hunting legacy and loyal nature. Bringing a Plott puppy into one's home is a significant responsibility that requires an understanding of the breed's unique needs during the first few formative months.
From the moment it is born until it reaches maturity, the Plott Hound puppy undergoes rapid physical and behavioral changes. Ensuring it receives the right care during this phase can set the foundation for a healthy and well-adjusted adult life.
Diet is paramount. The Plott puppy has specific nutritional requirements that differ from those of the adult dog. It is vital to provide the pup with high-quality puppy food that caters to its growing needs. Keeping a consistent feeding schedule and monitoring the puppy's weight can help in preventing overfeeding or malnutrition.
Socialization is another crucial aspect of puppy care. Introducing the Plott puppy to various people, environments, sounds, and experiences can positively shape its adult temperament. Positive encounters with other animals, children, and everyday situations can help in building confidence and reducing any future anxieties.
Puppy-proofing the home is also essential. Plott puppies, like all young dogs, are curious and can get into mischief. Ensuring that potential hazards, like electrical cords, toxic plants, and small objects, are out of reach can prevent accidents for happening. Providing the pup with appropriate toys can also deter it from chewing on furniture and other items in the home.
Regular veterinary check-ups are a must. These not only ensure the Plott puppy is growing well, they also provide appointments for vaccinations, and deworming, and for addressing any health concerns promptly.
Training should commence early with a Plott Hound puppy. Simple commands, housebreaking, and crate training can be introduced when the pup is quite young, leveraging the youngster's eagerness to learn while establishing good habits from the onset.
06/Activities
The Plott Hound, renowned for its hunting prowess and keen senses, naturally excels in a variety of activities. Engaging these hounds in athletic pursuits not only provides physical exercise but also delivers plenty of mental stimulation. Here are some recommended dog sports for the Plott Hound:
Participation in these activities and dog sports provides a platform for Plott owners to bond with their canine companions, tap into the breed's natural talents, and offer a fulfilling and stimulating life for their dogs.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Plott Hound is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Plott Hound is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
09/Rescue
10/Facts
State Dog: The Plott Hound is the Official State Dog of North Carolina, an honor bestowed upon it in recognition of its historical significance to the Tar Heel State.
German Roots: The Plott Hound's origins trace back to Germany in the 1750s when five Hanoverian Schweisshunds were taken to the United States by the Plott family, hence the breed's name.
Bear and Boar Hunter: Historically, Plott Hounds were bred for their tenacity in hunting bears and wild boars. Their powerful sense of smell and relentless drive made them invaluable assets in hunting expeditions.
Unique Howl: Their bay is distinct and can be recognized by enthusiasts and breeders. This howl was essential in the past to alert hunters of the dog's location and the prey's position.
11/FAQ
Plott Hounds, like all breeds, have individual personalities. They are not inherently dangerous. They were, however, originally bred for hunting, which means they have a strong prey drive. However, with proper socialization and training, they can be well-behaved and non-aggressive companions.
Official Standard of the Plott
The Plott may have an identification mark on the rump used to identify the dog when out hunting. Such a mark is not to be penalized when evaluating the dog.
General Appearance: A hunting hound of striking color that traditionally brings big game to bay or tree, the Plott is intelligent, alert and confident. Noted for stamina, endurance, agility, determination and aggressiveness when hunting, the powerful, well muscled, yet streamlined Plott combines courage with athletic ability.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size – Height - Males 20 to 25 inches at the withers. Females 20 to 23 inches at the withers. Proportion - General conformation and height in proportion. Faults: Extremely leggy or close to the ground. Weight-(in hunting condition) Males 50 to 60 pounds. Females 40 to 55 pounds. Substance - Moderately boned. Strong, yet quick and agile. Faults - Overdone. Carrying too much weight and or too much bone to display speed and dexterity.
Head: Head - Carried well up with skin fitting moderately tight. Faults - Folds, dewlap, skin stretched too tightly. Expression - Confident, inquisitive, determined. Fault - Sad expression. Eyes - Brown or hazel, prominent rather than deeply set. Faults - Drooping eyelids, red haw. Ears - Medium length, soft textured, fairly broad, set moderately high to high. Hanging gracefully with the inside part rolling forward toward the muzzle. Ear spread in males - 18 to 20 inches. Ear spread in females - 17 to 19 inches. When attentive or inquisitive, some Plotts display a semi-erectile power in their ears and lift them enough so a noticeable crease occurs on line with the crown. Disqualification - Length of ear extending beyond the tip of the nose or hanging bloodhound-like, in long, pendulous fashion. Skull - Moderately flat. Rounded at the crown with sufficient width between and above the eyes. Faults: Narrow-headed, square, oval or excessively domed. Muzzle - Moderate length, flews give it a squarish appearance. Faults -Bluntly squared. Pointed. Pigmentation - Eye rims, lips and nose are black. Flews - Black. Fault -Pendulous flews. Bite – Teeth - Scissors. Fault - Overshot or undershot.
Neck, Topline and Body: Neck - Medium length and muscular. Clean and free of ponderous dewlap. Fault: Loose, wrinkled or folded skin. Topline - Gently sloping, slightly higher at the withers than at the hips. Fault: Roached. Body – Chest - Deep. Ribs - Deep, moderately wide, well sprung. Back - Well muscled, strong, level. Loin - Slightly arched. Tail - Root is slightly below level of topline. Rather long, carried free, well up, saber-like. Moderately heavy in appearance and strongly tapered. Sometimes typified by a slight brush.
Forequarters: Shoulders - Clean, muscular and sloping, indicating speed and strength. Elbow -Squarely set. Forelegs - Straight, smooth, well muscled. Pasterns - Strong and erect. Feet - Firm, tight, well-padded and knuckled, with strong toes. Set directly under the leg. Disqualification -Splayed feet. Nails - Usually black, although shades of reddish brown matching the brindle body color are permissible and buckskin colored dogs have light red nails. May be white when portions of the feet are white.
Hindquarters: Angulation - Well bent at stifles and at the hocks. Hips - Smooth, round, and proportionally wide, indicating efficient propulsion. Legs - Long and muscular from hip to hock. From hock to pad short, strong and at right angles to the ground. Upper and second thigh -Powerful and well-muscled. Feet - Set back from under the body. Firm and tight. Toes - Strong.
Coat: Smooth, fine, glossy, but thick enough to provide protection from wind and water. Rare specimens are double coated, with a short, soft, thick inner coat concealed by a longer, smoother and stiffer outer coat.
Color: Any shade of brindle (a streaked or striped pattern of dark hair imposed on a lighter background) is preferred. This includes the following brindle factors: yellow, buckskin, tan, brown, chocolate, liver, orange, red, light or dark gray, blue or Maltese, dilute black, and black. Other acceptable Plott colors are solid black, any shade of brindle, with black saddle, and black with brindle trim. A rare buckskin, devoid of any brindle, sometimes appears among litters; ranging from red fawn, sandy red, light cream, and yellow ochre, to dark fawn and golden tan. Some white on chest and feet is permissible as is a graying effect around the jaws and muzzle.
Gait: Dexterous and graceful, rhythmic footfall. With ample reach in front and drive behind, the Plott easily traverses various terrains with agility and speed. Legs converge to single track at speed.
Temperament: Eager to please, loyal, intelligent, alert. Aggressive, bold, and fearless hunter. Disposition generally even, but varies among strains, with a distinction sometimes appearing between those bred for big game and those bred as coonhounds.
Disqualifications: Length of ear extending beyond the tip of the nose or hanging bloodhound-like, in long, pendulous fashion. Splayed feet.
Approved: June 1998
Effective: October 1, 1998
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Debbie Melgreen reflects on judging Hound breeds at the 2025 AKC National Championship, sharing highlights, depth of quality, and gratitude.
Plott Hound stands out for a reason among the scenthounds. Neither the Foxhound nor the Bloodhound are directly represented in his ancestry.
Field Trials
Read and learn about the various coonhound performance events, such as Nite Hunts, Bench Shows, Field Trials, and Water Races.
The tail of the Plott Hound is rather heavy and set slightly below the level of the croup, extending to or just below the hock. In action, especially during a hunt, the tail is carried well up in a saber-like curve, but it never curls over the back. At rest, the tail is carried down and in a slight curve.
While some Plotts may have a naturally shorter tail, it is essential to note that tail docking is not a common practice for the breed. The natural tail, thick at the base and tapering towards the end, serves as a rudder of sorts in all hunting conditions.
Whether the Plott is on the hunt or simply expressing its mood at home, the tail is an active and expressive part of its anatomy, giving insight into the hound's intentions or feelings at any given moment.
Standard Markings
A Note About Color: The Plott is seen in a few different colors. Most individuals are brindle in color, where dark hairs are imposed on a lighter background in a streaked or striped pattern. However, a few additional colors/markings are acceptable, including buckskin. This coloration lacks brindling and may be red fawn, sandy red, light cream, yellow ochre, dark fawn, or golden tan. White hairs on the chest and feet are acceptable in the breed, as is graying on the muzzle and lower jaw.
Coat Type
Smooth
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Short
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
Feeding a Plott Hound appropriately is vital for its overall health, energy levels, and longevity. Due to their active nature and hunting lineage, Plotts have specific nutritional needs to support their robust physical demands.
When they are puppies, Plotts require a diet rich in proteins and fats to support their rapid growth and development. It's common for Plott puppies to be fed multiple small meals a day, often three to four times, to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients without overloading their digestive system.
As the Plott Hounds transition to adulthood, their dietary needs change. Adult Plotts typically thrive on high-quality commercial or home-cooked meals that are well-balanced in terms of proteins, fats, and essential minerals. The exact amount of food a Plott requires can vary based on their age, activity level, and individual metabolism. On average, a typical adult Plott might consume 2 to 3 cups of dry food a day, divided into two meals. However, this is a general guideline, and it's always best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the right amount for your individual dog.
It's also crucial to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake if they begin to gain or lose weight unexpectedly. Regular check-ins with the vet can help ensure that the Plott remains in the ideal weight range.
Remember, while treats can be a useful training aid, they should be given in moderation to prevent obesity and ensure they maintain a balanced diet. Fresh water should always be readily available, especially after vigorous activity or during warmer months.
Training a Plott Hound can be a rewarding experience, given the breed's intelligence and determination. Derived from their hunting lineage, Plotts are keen learners, but they also have an independent streak which can sometimes come across as stubbornness.
Ease of training varies among individual Plott Hounds. Many are quick to pick up commands and eager to please their owners, while others might require a bit more patience and consistent reinforcement. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats or praise, typically yield the best results with this breed. Their sensitive nature means that harsh or punitive methods are not only ineffective but can also be detrimental to the training process.
The breed's vocal nature, characterized by its distinctive baying, can be a point of focus during training. Teaching them commands like "quiet" or "enough" can help control excessive barking or alerting behaviors. Socialization, which introduces the Plott Hound to a variety of people, places, and other animals, is crucial from a young age. It helps in curbing any overly protective instincts and ensures they grow into well-adjusted adults.
Another aspect to be mindful of is their inherent prey drive. They might be inclined to chase after smaller animals, so training in recall and commands like "leave it" or "stay" becomes especially important. This also ties into their wanderlust potential; while many Plott Hounds are content to stay close to their owners, it's essential to ensure they are safely contained or on a leash during outdoor activities to prevent them from following a scent or chasing prey.
Grooming Expectations
The Plott Hound has a short, dense coat that lies close to the body. While it's not prone to tangling or matting, regular brushing is still beneficial. A weekly brush with a firm-bristle brush or hound glove will help remove loose hairs, keep the coat looking its best, and provide an opportunity to check the dog for any skin issues or external parasites like ticks or fleas. Shedding in the Plott Hound is moderate. Regular brushing can help manage and reduce the amount of hair found around the house, especially during seasonal shedding periods. While Plott Hounds don't need frequent baths, it's advisable to bathe them when they get particularly dirty or begin to emit a doggy odor. Using a mild dog-specific shampoo will ensure their skin remains hydrated and their coat retains its natural oils. In addition to coat care, other grooming essentials for the Plott Hound include regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care. Nails should be trimmed every few weeks or as needed to prevent overgrowth and potential splitting. Their ears should be checked weekly for any signs of wax buildup, redness, or foul odor, which could indicate an infection. Cleaning with a vet-recommended solution can help maintain ear health. Dental care, through regular brushing or dental chews, is crucial for preventing tartar buildup and ensuring good oral health.
