The Treeing Walker Coonhound is one of six American breeds of coonhound. This tri-colored hound is widely considered “the people’s choice” and is well-known for its exceptional tracking ability. This energetic hunter was the first of its kind to be used to track and tree raccoons and small game, and is still supported by those who appreciate its keen sense of smell, high energy levels, and strong hunting instincts. And although the Treeing Walker is a great hunting dog, this alert and active coonhound is also an excellent family companion, with an amiable temperament that makes it a great companion for kids of all ages.
AKC Group
Hound
Height
20 – 27 inches
Weight
50 – 70 pounds
Lifespan
12 – 13 years
Highlights
Country of Origin
United States
Bred For
Raccoon Hunting, Companionship
Known For
Courage, Friendliness, Intelligence
Popularity
Low
Temperament
Active, Alert, Brave, Courteous
Activities
Hunting, Running, Hiking, Swimming, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports
History of the Treeing Walker Coonhound
The Treeing Walker Coonhound’s ancestors can be traced back to the American colonial era when hunting hounds were brought from Europe and crossed with other canines to create an adaptable and talented tracker.
The breed has its roots with the English Foxhound, which originally came to the American colonies for fox hunting. As settlers moved westward, a more skilled hunting dog that was capable of locating and treeing raccoons became necessary. This eventually resulted in the introduction of several coonhound breeds such as the English Coonhound and Walker Hound.
The Walker Hound, named after its famous breeder, Thomas Walker, was important in the development of the Treeing Walker Coonhound. Walker chose and bred his hounds for their outstanding tracking abilities and stamina. The foundation stock of the breed was a cross of Walker Hounds, Virginia Hounds, and several coonhound variations.
Over time, breeders continued to improve their hounds’ many fine qualities. They concentrated on characteristics like speed, scenting ability, treeing instinct, and endurance. Coonhounds quickly grew in popularity in the Southern United States, particularly among hunters who appreciated the tireless work ethic and scenting abilities of the dogs.
The breed was eventually categorized by the United Kennel Club (UKC), which distinguished it from other coonhounds such as the Bluetick and Redbone. It was officially recognized by the UKC as a distinct breed in 1945. In 2012, the American Kennel Club (AKC) welcomed the breed as a member of the Hound Group.
Today, the Treeing Walker Coonhound remains a beloved hunting companion and active participant in coonhound competitions. The breed’s skills, energy, and friendly disposition have secured a place for this hound as a cherished friend to generations of American hunters.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
Mature male Treeing Walker Coonhounds typically stand between 22 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder, while females usually measure between 20 and 25 inches.
Treeing Walker Coonhound males typically weigh between 50-70 pounds, with females weighing slightly less.
Proportion & Substance
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is somewhere between a medium and large-sized dog. The breed’s body is well proportionate and displays an athletic build. Not overly heavy or stocky, this coonhound is built for agility and endurance. All of the physical traits that a Treeing Walker possesses are well-suited for its role as a hunting dog.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The coat of the Treeing Walker Coonhound offers sufficient protection during a hunt. The coat consists of smooth hair that’s short and glossy but hard and dense enough to be protective. A coat that’s too thin or soft is detrimental for function. Likewise, any excess skin or throatiness is unacceptable in this active and energetic coonhound.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Colors
Standard Color
Black
ee
Tri-Colored
ee
White
ee
A Note About Color: The preferred coloration of the Treeing Walker Coonhound is tri-colored, although white may be the dominant color with black marking and tan trim; or black may dominate with white marking and tan trim (blanket-back or saddle-back). White hounds with tan spots or black spots are also acceptable, but all other colors/combinations are not.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Markings
Standard Marking
Blanket-Back
ee
Black Spots
ee
Black Spots, Tan Trim
ee
Saddle-Back
ee
Tan Spots
ee
White Markings, Tan Trim
ee
Head
Skull: The skull of the Treeing Walker Coonhound is moderately broad and slightly rounded, with a prominent occipital bone. It is medium in length and in proportion to the rest of the body.
Expression: The breed’s expression is typically alert, friendly, and eager. These hounds are known for their animated expression that reflects both their even temper and their desire to perform.
Eyes: The eyes are large and set well apart. They have a pleading and gentle expression and are dark in color – black or dark brown.
Ears: Ears are set moderately low and of medium length. They are oval or round at the tip and hang gracefully towards the muzzle. When pulled forward, the ears reach, or nearly reach, the tip of the nose.
Muzzle: The Treeing Walker’s muzzle is of medium length and rather square-shaped. There’s a medium stop and no suggestion of a Roman-nosed or dish face.
Nose: This coonhound’s nose is large and black in color. Open nostrils facilitate scenting during the hunt.
Bite: The Treeing Walker Coonhound possesses strong teeth and a scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors and are well-set within the jaws.
Tail
The tail of the Treeing Walker Coonhound is tapered and set moderately high, coming right off the topline. Its length is moderately long and is typically carried high in a saber-like fashion, forming a gentle curve. When the dog is excited or on the hunt, the tail may rise a bit higher, but it still maintains its shape without excessive curl. The hair on the tail is neither so thick as to form a flag or excessive brush nor too thin to create the appearance of a rat tail.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound – What to Consider?
Adding a Treeing Walker Coonhound to the family can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to consider several factors before bringing one home. These are high-energy hounds that require a lot of exercise and consistent training. Their need for activity demands daily outings, but their friendly nature can make them a great choice for active families. It’s important to note, however, that they are not ideal apartment dogs as they tend to use their voice a lot.
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
IndependentAffectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not RecommendedReliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not RecommendedDependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
LowHigh
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
MonthlyDaily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
LowHigh
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Coat Length
short
medium
long
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
ReservedOutgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal InterestMaximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
LowHigh
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
LowHigh
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
StubbornEager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
QuietVocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch PotatoBusybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal EngagementIntensive Interaction
Treeing Walker Coonhound Health
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a typically healthy breed, although, like any dog, individuals can be at risk to some health concerns.
The average lifespan of the breed is 12 to 13 years, but with regular veterinary treatment, a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and good grooming, many can thrive beyond these years.
Potential Health Risks
Although generally healthy, some Treeing Walker Coonhounds can be prone to certain health conditions, including:
Hip Dysplasia: Some dogs can suffer from this orthopedic condition, which is characterized by improper hip joint development. This can lead to arthritis and mobility issues.
Ear Infection: Individuals can be prone to ear infections due to the breed’s long, pendulous ears. Moisture and dirt can become trapped, fostering the growth of yeast. Ear cleaning on a regular basis can help to avoid infections.
Eye Condition: Some coonhounds can be predisposed to progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) or cataracts, which can impair vision. Regular eye examinations can help to identify and manage these diseases.
Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms may include weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems, but thankfully, the disease can be managed with medication.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Personality
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a breed with a distinct and captivating personality. This hound is well-known for its hunting abilities, endless energy, and friendly attitude, making it a popular choice for both hard-driving hunters and human households.
This is an active breed that is always up for an adventure, whether it’s a long hike through the woods or a lively game of chase in the backyard. The Treeing Walker’s unlimited energy can be a blessing and a curse for some people, since it requires a commitment to providing regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their energetic personality, however, makes them ideal companions for busy people and families that enjoy outside activities.
In addition to the breed’s physical vigor, the Treeing Walker possesses a social and friendly nature. These coonhounds tend to be outgoing and welcoming, displaying an eagerness to engage with both people and other dogs. This sociable disposition can make them excellent family members, as they typically get along well with children and other household pets.
One of the breed’s more distinctive traits is its melodious voice. This rather charming characteristic can be both captivating and convenient as an alert system. However, the symphonic alarm can be problematic for neighbors who may not appreciate all the baying and barking.
The intelligence of the Treeing Walker Coonhound can be useful during training, but it should be remembered these hounds have a mind of their own. The breed’s unique combination of independence, energy, and endurance can make training sessions a satisfying challenge for those willing to put in the time and effort. To ensure success, training sessions should be kept short and focused on providing positive reinforcement.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Feeding & Nutrition
Feeding and nutrition are essential considerations for maintaining a Treeing Walker Coonhound in optimal condition. To support this hound’s active lifestyle and bolster its energy levels, a balanced and nutritious diet is essential.
It is critical to choose a high-quality dog food that meets the breed’s specific nutritional needs. These coonhounds, being an energetic medium- to large-sized dog, benefit from a diet rich in the high-quality animal proteins that are necessary for the development and maintenance of muscles and their associated tissue.
Another important part of feeding a Treeing Walker is portion control. Because these dogs are prone to weight gain, strict portion management is required to maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity.
When it comes to the portion size, this coonhound needs up to 3 cups of food daily. The best way to feed is to serve two to three meals per day, depending on a dog’s preferences and needs.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound’s food requirements will change as the dog ages. Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs all have different nutritional needs. As a result, selecting the appropriate meal for each life stage is critical for maintaining good overall health.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Training
Training the Treeing Walker Coonhound can be a satisfying journey that requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of the breed’s unique wants and needs. These intelligent and energetic dogs have a strong hunting instinct, making them enthusiastic learners when properly guided.
While the spirited nature of these hounds can make training sessions exciting, it can also present challenges, particularly in the form of any perceived stubbornness. Positive reinforcement training is highly recommended to encourage the best results. These dogs thrive on rewards, praise, and encouragement, so offering treats, affection, and verbal praise can be powerful tools for fostering cooperation and reinforcing desired behaviors.
Another important aspect of successful training is consistency. As with any dog, it’s important to set clear boundaries and enforce them in ways that are positive and productive.
The importance of socializing a Treeing Walker cannot be overstated. Early exposure to a variety of people, animals, and environments will help these dogs develop into well-adjusted and confident adults. Early socialization can reduce the possibility of fearful or aggressive behaviors later in life.
Leash training is another vital aspect of training. Coonhounds are known for their keen sense of smell, which will sometimes lead them to follow scents and become unresponsive to any recall command.
Training the Treeing Walker Coonhound is more than just teaching commands and giving orders; it also establishes a strong and lasting relationship between the hound and its family, assuring a fun and fulfilling connection for many years to come.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Exercise
Exercise is an essential aspect of caring for a Treeing Walker Coonhound, since the breed is widely known for its endless energy and drive. For these hounds, adequate exercise is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Exercise Expectations
Energy Level
High
Exercise Requirements
2 Hours/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Occasional Swimming, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation
The Treeing Walker Coonhound possesses a remarkable combination of agility, endurance, and strength. These hunting hounds can become bored and frustrated without regular exercise. This can lead to behavioral difficulties, including a tendency towards destructiveness. Exercising provides an outlet for the hound’s energy and it is recommended to provide these dogs with at least an hour of exercise per day.
The types of exercise suitable for Treeing Walkers are diverse, ranging from vigorous outdoor activities to mental challenges. Long walks, hikes, or runs are excellent ways to meet their physical exercise needs. Engaging them in activities like fetch or frisbee can also provide cardiovascular workouts while reinforcing the bond they share with family members.
These coonhounds are extremely bright and thrive on mental stimulation. Tracking, Agility, and Scent Work, for example, provide mental challenges that can minimize boredom while also encouraging focus and problem-solving skills.
Lastly, exercise is an essential part of care for a Treeing Walker Coonhound. Regular physical activity is critical to the hound’s mental and physical well-being. Boredom, dissatisfaction, and behavioral issues can result from a lack of exercise. This coonhound can release energy, stay engaged, and live a meaningful life by participating in various forms of physical and mental activity.
Treeing Walker Coonhound Grooming
The Treeing Walker Coonhound has a short and smooth coat that is relatively low-maintenance, yet grooming is necessary to support the dog’s overall well-being and comfort.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound sheds, although it’s typically not excessive. Weekly brushing helps to remove loose hair, reducing the amount that’s left around the house. Regular brushing increases blood flow to the skin, which promotes skin health as well as a shiny coat.
These coonhounds don’t typically require frequent baths unless they’ve rolled in something that’s particularly dirty or smelly. Bathing too frequently, it should be noted, can strip the coat of its natural oils, leading to dry skin.
Another important aspect of grooming is cleaning and inspecting the ears. Likewise, overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even affect the hound’s gait. Regular nail trimming can prevent nail breakage and will help to keep feet and toes in good condition.
Living with a Treeing Walker Coonhound
Living with a Treeing Walker Coonhound is a wonderful adventure, but it comes with certain considerations and responsibilities. When properly cared for, this courageous and courteous coonhound, recognized for its boundless energy, pleasant attitude, and powerful hunting instincts, can be a great hunting companion as well as a wonderful friend.
This coonhound is well-known for its friendly and outgoing nature, forming deep bonds with each member of the family. This breed thrives on social interaction and is usually good with chil
