01/Overview
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.
Highlights
02/History
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.
03/Appearance
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.
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.
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.
Standard Colors
Standard Markings
04/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.
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 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.
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.
Exercise Expectations
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.
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 children and other pets when properly introduced. The loyalty and affection offered by this hound are immeasurable, making the Treeing Walker a wonderful partner and loyal friend to those who understand its competitive spirit.
However, living with this breed involves specific responsibilities. To be happy, these hounds require a lot of activity and mental stimulation. A secure, fenced-in yard is essential for their safety and to keep them from following their nose into trouble. Leash training and an effective recall command are essential for keeping them under control during walks and during outdoor activities.
Another factor to consider is the Treeing Walker Coonhound's vocal nature. This hound is well-known for its frequent use of its loud voice. This can be an issue in neighborhoods with noise regulations, so working on bark control and providing mental stimulation to avoid excessive vocalization is critical.
05/Puppies
From an early age, Treeing Walker Coonhound puppies are playful and full of energy. Their curiosity, along with their natural desire to run and chase, can make them a bit of a challenge at times; but, if properly trained and socialized, these alert and active pups can become excellent companions.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound puppy typically possesses boundless energy and an affectionate nature. Due to its naturally competitive spirit (even at a young age), this pup needs to be monitored closely to keep it from getting into trouble. Providing proper care is also a priority. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are essential to ensure its well-being.
Crate training is a valuable tool during the early weeks and months of the puppy's life. A cozy crate offers a secure and comfortable space for relaxing and it helps to facilitate housetraining in short order.
Socialization is another key aspect of puppy care, particularly for this breed. Exposing the coonhound puppy to various people, animals, and environments can help it to become a well-adjusted and confident adults.
Exercise is also essential for the Treeing Walker Coonhound puppy. The little one's energy levels are high, requiring ample opportunities for physical activity. Regular play sessions and short walks are suitable, keeping in mind the pup's growing body and the need for rest.
06/Activities
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a highly energetic and athletic breed that can excel in various dog sports and activities that allow the hound to demonstrate its natural instincts and fine physical form with ease.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Treeing Walker Coonhound 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 Treeing Walker Coonhound 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
A Family Name
The breed's name honors a prominent breeder and hunter, John W. Walker, whose efforts in developing the breed played a significant role in its creation.
Hunting Heritage
The Treeing Walker Coonhound was initially trained to track raccoons and follow them to the trees where the omnivorous animals would go to hide (hence the name "Coonhound"). This hound's great sense of smell, as well as its superior speed and stamina, make for an effective and efficient hunter, especially at night when raccoons are most active.
Vocalization
The Treeing Walker makes a bugle-like sound while tracking so that the hunter is able to follow it. When the hound "trees" a raccoon, it switches to a short, choppy bark.
Versatile Athletes
In addition to coon hunting, these hounds can excel in various dog sports, including Agility, Tracking, and even Obedience Trials.
Enthusiastic Companions
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are enthusiastic and devoted companions. They enjoy being part of family activities and thrive on the companionship of their human partners.
11/FAQ
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are generally not aggressive, particularly towards humans. They tend to be friendly, outgoing, and sociable. However, due to their hunting instincts, they might show excessive interest towards smaller animals, so proper training and socialization are essential from a young age.
Official Standard of the Treeing Walker Coonhound
General Appearance: Characteristics - Called 'the people's choice' among all coonhound breeds, the energetic Treeing Walker is perfectly suited for the task for which it was bred -tracking and treeing wild raccoons in their natural haunts. The breed's competitive spirit makes it an ideal choice for competitive coonhound events where the breed excels. The Treeing Walker Coonhound is alert, intelligent, active, courteous, and courageous with extreme endurance and the desire to perform.
Size, Weight, Proportion, Substance: Height - Slightly more at shoulders than at hips. Shoulders should measure: Males, 22 to 27 inches, Females, 20 to 25 inches. Balance is key with all of the parts coming together in proper balance to form the whole. Weight - Should be in proportion to dog's height. Working dogs are not to be penalized when shown, if slightly under weight.
Head: Skull - Should be medium length with the occipital bone prominent; cranium is to be broad and full. Fault-very flat narrow skull; having excess of bone; not in proportion to the body. Ears - Should be set moderately low and of medium length, reaching or nearly reaching to the tip of the nose; oval or round at the tip, hanging gracefully towards the muzzle. Fault - short ears set high on the head. Eyes - large, set well apart with soft hound-like expression, pleading and gentle; dark in color, brown or black. Fault - yellow or light eyes, protruding or small. Muzzle -Medium length and rather square; medium stop, neither Roman-nosed nor dish faced. Nostrils -large and black. Fault - any other color than black.
Neck, Topline, Body: Neck and Throat - clean with no excess of skin, neck of medium length, rising from the shoulders cleanly; strong but not loaded, smooth. Fault - short, thick neck carried in line with the shoulders; throatiness. Shoulder-blade sloping forward and downward at a 45 degree angle to the ground; presenting a laid back appearance, neither loaded nor heavy, providing freedom of movement and strength. Length of shoulder blade and upper arm to be equal. Chest and Ribs - Depth of chest is more important than width; descending to the approximate point of elbow. Ribs well sprung, never flat or slab-sided. Back and Loins - Strong, muscular back of moderate length; topline nearly level or sloping slightly from shoulder to rear. Faults - higher in the rear (hips) than at the withers, roached or sway-back. Tail - set moderately high, coming right off the topline, carried well up and saber-like. Curved gracefully up, tapered and moderately long without flag or excessive brush. Fault - having an excess of curve in tail; rat tail; excessive brush.
Forequarters: Forelegs - Straight and parallel to each other, from elbow to pastern. Pastern, from the joint to the top of the foot is strong and distinct, slightly slanting but standing almost perpendicular to the ground. Faults - out at the elbow, crooked forelegs, weak pasterns, knuckling over. Feet - thick pads, well arched toes giving a 'cat foot' appearance, tight. No rear dewclaws. Front dewclaws may be removed. Fault-flat, splayed feet.
Hindquarters: Hind Legs - Muscular and powerful with great propelling leverage. Well muscled thighs of considerable length. Stifles well bent. Clean hocks. Legs viewed from the rear are parallel. Defined angulation denotes endurance and power.
Coat: Smooth hair that is glossy and short, yet dense enough for protection while being a close and hard hound coat. Fault - too short or thin or too soft.
Color: Tri-colored is preferred, white, black and tan. White may be the predominant color with black marking and tan trim; or black may be the predominant color with white marking and tan trim, such as a saddle back or blanket back. White with tan spots or white with black spots may be accepted. Fault-any other color combination will be penalized when shown.
Gait: Gait is smooth and effortless, free and balanced, showing good reach in the front with powerful drive in the rear quarters, producing efficient movement, covering ground effortlessly. Note - Working dogs will not be penalized for scars or blemishes due to hunting injuries.
Approved July 8, 2008
Effective January 1, 2009
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Daniel Smyth shares insights from judging at the 2025 AKC National Championship, reflecting on preparation, quality, and a standout year.
A young boy’s passion for coon hunting led to the creation of the Treeing Walker breed, shaping the future of coonhunting.
All About Judging
Learn how to judge the athletic, graceful Treeing Walker Coonhound. Discover insights on breed standards, movement, and judging essentials.
Meet the Breeders
Discover the journey of Cole Vanover of Lost Heritage Hounds, blending coonhunting passion with top-winning Treeing Walkers.
Explore the Treeing Walker Hound’s Kentucky roots, from colonial land grants to the legendary Tennessee Lead and America’s iconic coonhound.
Field Trials
Read and learn about the various coonhound performance events, such as Nite Hunts, Bench Shows, Field Trials, and Water Races.
Meet the Breeders
Interview with Hound Group Breeder Lori Mills – My kennel name is Sidearm Kennel. We keep between 40 and 80 dogs, including puppies.
All About Judging
Now that coonhounds are in AKC conformation shows, it is becoming increasingly important that we focus on the correct coonhound structure
Treeing Walker Coonhound | One More Chase Through the Woods. Can anyone tell me what geography, tyranny, the Declaration of Independence
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Grooming Expectations
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.
