Learn all there is to know about the Bloodhound dog breed, including temperament, training, health, and care. Learn if a Bloodhound makes the ideal pet for you!
The Historical Bloodhound Dog Breed
The Bloodhound is one of the most popular mythological scent-following dogs in the world. Due to their incredible sense of smell, Bloodhounds have been used for centuries in search-and-rescue operations, police service, and hunting.
If you’re thinking about adopting a Bloodhound, this article addresses:
- Bloodhounds’ history & origin
- Temperament & personality
- Training, exercise, and grooming requirements
- Health problems & longevity
Let’s get into all the things you need to know about this incredible tracking dog.
Bloodhound Breed Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Hound |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 80-110 lbs (36-50 kg) |
| Height | 23-27 inches (58-69 cm) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Coat Type | Short, dense |
| Temperament | Loyal, intelligent, independent |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate to High |
| Good with Kids? | Yes |
| Good with Pets? | Yes, with proper training |
Fun Fact: A Bloodhound’s sense of smell is so accurate that its tracking evidence is admissible in court!
History & Origin of the Bloodhound
The Bloodhound’s ancestors date far back in medieval Europe, in which monks in France and Belgium originally bred them as hunting dogs for wild boar and deer. Later, they became famous for their mythic tracking abilities, being used by the police and rescue squads to track missing persons and criminals.
The Bloodhound is utilized today in law enforcement and search-and-rescue missions worldwide.
Bloodhound Temperament & Personality
- Friendly & Gentle – Bloodhounds are friendly and loving dogs that live for human companionship.
- Independent & Stubborn – Smart as they are, they are hard to train due to their stubborn nature.
- Highly Scent-Driven – Their keen sense of smell can easily be diverted by odors.
- Great with Families – Bloodhounds are good with children and can be good with other pets if socialized well.
Tip: Due to having such a strong hunting instinct, Bloodhounds need to be leash or fenced at all times.
Training & Exercise Needs
Bloodhounds are scent hounds with high energy and therefore need regular training and exercise.
Training a Bloodhound
- Start early – Train them as young puppies to establish good habits.
- Reward training – Positive reinforcement works best.
- Patience – Bloodhounds are stubborn and require frequent training.
- Socialization is crucial – Habituate them to new people, animals, and environments at an early stage.
Daily Exercise Requirements
Bloodhounds need a minimum of 1-2 hours of daily exercise, as follows:
- Long walks & sniffing exercises
- Obedience training sessions
- Scent work & scent games
- Hiking & outdoor adventures
Tip: Bloodhounds are tracking scenthounds, thus a safe leash when walking them is a must.
Grooming & Care Manual for a Bloodhound
Bloodhounds have short coats, but they require frequent grooming due to loose skin and hanging ears.
Grooming Checklist
- Brushing: 1-2 times a week to remove loose hair.
- Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks to prevent stink
- Ear Cleaning: Weekly to prevent infection
- Nail Trimming: Every 3-4 weeks
- Teeth Brushing: 2-3 times a week
Tip: Bloodhounds drool, so keep a towel handy to wipe face clean.
Common Health Problems & Lifespan
Bloodhounds are generally healthy animals, but like all breeds, they are predisposed to a few health issues.
Health Ailments Seen in Bloodhounds
- Hip Dysplasia – Affects mobility; common in larger breeds.
- Bloat (Gastric Torsion) – Is life-threatening; avoid feeding before or after exercise.
- Ear Infections – Due to long ears, ear cleaning is often required.
- Skin Infections – Trapping moisture in folds of skin makes them prone to infection.
Tip: Regular vet checkups and a balanced diet avoid most health issues.
Lifespan of a Bloodhound
Bloodhounds survive for about 10-12 years, similar to big breeds.
Best Diet & Nutrition for Bloodhounds
A balanced diet is crucial for a Bloodhound’s energy and general well-being.
What to Feed a Bloodhound?
- High-protein dog food – For muscle growth
- Healthy fats – For energy & shiny coat
- Fruits & vegetables – Provide required vitamins
- Glucosamine & Omega-3 – Joint health
Recommended Dog Food for Bloodhounds
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed – Grain-free and high-protein.
- Purina Pro Plan Sport 30/20 – For active dogs.
- Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed – Joint and heart health.
Tip: Divide meals into 2-3 portions per day to prevent bloat.
Is a Bloodhound the Right Dog for You?
A Bloodhound is a great choice if you:
- Lead an active lifestyle and can give daily exercise
- Desire a loyal & loving dog
- Have training experience with independent breeds
- Possess a fenced yard for protection
A Bloodhound might NOT be the best option if you:
- Reside in a small apartment with no outside area
- Desire a low-maintenance, quiet dog
- Lack time for frequent training & socialization
FAQs
1. Are Bloodhounds suitable family pets?
They are great with families and children and are friendly and loving.
2. Are Bloodhounds good with other pets?
They can be, but they require early socialization and training.
3. Do Bloodhounds slobber a lot?
Bloodhounds are slobbery dogs and do slobber heavily after drinking and eating.
4. Are Bloodhounds simple to train?
No, they are stubborn and require patience and consistency in training.
5. Can Bloodhounds be apartment-dwellers?
Not perfect, unless they get plenty of outdoor exercise on a daily basis.
Is the Bloodhound the Right Dog for You?
The Bloodhound is a loyal, gentle, and very skilled scent-tracker. They require constant training, regular exercise, and proper grooming to be healthy and happy.
If you’re looking for a devoted companion with a strong nose, the Bloodhound dog might be the perfect match!
For more breed articles, check out:
Would you love to own a Bloodhound? Let us know in the comments!
