Mike Clinton
Introduction: The American English Coonhound
The American English Coonhound, also known as the Redtick Coonhound, is a breed of dog native to the United States. The breed was developed in the southern United States, specifically in the area that is now known as the Appalachian Mountains. The American English Coonhound is known for its superb hunting skills and has been used to hunt a variety of game, including raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, wild boars, and even bears.
Characteristics of the American English Coonhound
The American English Coonhound is a medium to large sized dog with a muscular build. It has a short, dense coat that is typically red or black and tan with ticking. The breed has long ears that hang down and a long tail that is carried high. American English Coonhounds are known for their exceptional sense of smell, which makes them well-suited for tracking and hunting.
History of the American English Coonhound’s Hunting Instincts
The American English Coonhound was bred for hunting, specifically for tracking and treeing raccoons. The breed’s ancestors were brought over from Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries and were used for hunting foxes and other small game. Over time, the breed was developed specifically for hunting raccoons in the southern United States. The American English Coonhound is now recognized as one of the top coonhound breeds in the world.
Prey Preferences of the American English Coonhound
The American English Coonhound is a versatile hunting dog that is capable of hunting a variety of game. However, the breed is primarily used for hunting small game, such as rabbits and squirrels, and for tracking and treeing raccoons. American English Coonhounds are also well-suited for hunting wild boar, although this is a more specialized type of hunting that requires a different set of skills.
Small Game Hunting: Rabbits and Squirrels
American English Coonhounds are excellent small game hunters. They have a keen sense of smell and are able to track rabbits and squirrels through dense underbrush and wooded areas. Once they have located their prey, they will chase it until they can catch it or tree it. American English Coonhounds are fast and agile, which makes them well-suited for this type of hunting.
Hunting Raccoons: A Specialty of the American English Coonhound
One of the American English Coonhound’s specialties is hunting raccoons. The breed is able to track raccoons through the woods and will bark loudly to alert their handlers when they have treed the animal. American English Coonhounds are also well-suited for hunting raccoons at night, as they have excellent night vision and are able to navigate in low light conditions.
Wild Boar Hunting with American English Coonhounds
Although not as common as small game hunting, hunting wild boar with American English Coonhounds is becoming increasingly popular. This type of hunting requires a different set of skills, as wild boars are larger and more aggressive than other game. American English Coonhounds are able to track and corner wild boars, allowing the hunters to approach and take the animal down.
Hunting Bears: The American English Coonhound’s Limitations
While American English Coonhounds have been used to hunt bears in the past, this type of hunting is not recommended. Bears are much larger and more dangerous than other game, and hunting them with dogs can be risky for both the dogs and the hunters. American English Coonhounds are not well-suited for this type of hunting and should not be used for bear hunting.
Training American English Coonhounds for Hunting
Training American English Coonhounds for hunting is essential if you want to have a successful hunting experience. The breed is intelligent and energetic, but can also be stubborn and independent. A well-trained American English Coonhound will be able to track and tree game on its own, but will also listen to and follow the commands of its handler.
Conclusion: A Versatile Hunting Dog
The American English Coonhound is a versatile hunting dog that is well-suited for a variety of hunting activities. Whether you are hunting small game, raccoons, or wild boars, the American English Coonhound is up to the task. With their exceptional sense of smell, speed, and agility, American English Coonhounds make excellent hunting companions for those who are looking for a reliable and skilled hunting dog.