Mike Clinton
Introduction: American English Coonhounds as Guard Dogs
Many dog breeds have been trained as guard dogs for centuries, including German Shepherds, Dobermans, and Rottweilers. However, some dog owners prefer to have a hound as a guard dog. American English Coonhounds, also known as Redtick Coonhounds, are often considered for this purpose due to their loyalty and bravery. In this article, we will explore whether if American English Coonhounds are good guard dogs.
Coonhounds’ History and Characteristics
American English Coonhounds were originally bred in the United States in the 18th century for hunting raccoons. They are medium-sized dogs with a muscular build and a distinct red and white ticked coat. Coonhounds have an excellent sense of smell and are known for their stamina and endurance. They are friendly and social dogs, and they love to be around their family and other dogs.
Guard Dog Traits and Coonhounds’ Temperament
Guard dogs must possess specific traits, including loyalty, bravery, intelligence, and obedience. American English Coonhounds are loyal and protective of their family, making them excellent guard dogs. They are also brave and courageous, which is a desirable trait in a guard dog. However, their intelligence can sometimes work against them, as they may become bored and destructive if they are not mentally stimulated enough.
Training Coonhounds as Guard Dogs
Proper training is crucial for any dog breed to become a good guard dog. American English Coonhounds require consistent training and socialization from an early age to ensure they are obedient and well-behaved. They have a high prey drive, so their training should focus on impulse control and obedience. Coonhounds also need plenty of exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Coonhounds’ Ability to Sense Danger
Coonhounds have an excellent sense of smell and hearing, which can make them valuable in detecting danger. They are instinctively loyal to their family and will bark to alert them of any perceived threat. However, their sense of smell can sometimes lead them astray, and they may become distracted by interesting scents, which can hinder their ability to guard their territory effectively.
Coonhounds’ Alertness and Territorial Behavior
Coonhounds are naturally alert and territorial, and they will defend their family and property when necessary. They are not aggressive dogs, but they will bark and growl to deter potential intruders. However, their friendly nature can sometimes work against them, as they may be too trusting of strangers.
Coonhounds as Watchdogs vs. Guard Dogs
Coonhounds are excellent watchdogs, as they are naturally alert and will bark to alert their owners of any perceived threat. However, they may not have the same level of aggression as other guard dog breeds, making them better suited as watch dogs rather than guard dogs.
Coonhounds’ Compatibility with Families and Children
American English Coonhounds are friendly and sociable dogs, making them great family pets. They are excellent with children and other dogs and enjoy being part of a pack. However, they can become bored and destructive if they are left alone for long periods, so they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Coonhounds’ Maintenance as Guard Dogs
Coonhounds are relatively low-maintenance dogs, as they have a short, smooth coat that does not require much grooming. However, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They are prone to obesity, so their diet should be monitored closely.
Conclusion: Are American English Coonhounds Good Guard Dogs?
In conclusion, American English Coonhounds can make good guard dogs due to their loyalty, bravery, and protective nature. However, their friendly disposition and lack of aggression may make them better suited as watchdogs. Proper training and socialization are crucial for any dog breed to become a good guard dog, and Coonhounds require consistent mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Overall, American English Coonhounds can be excellent guard dogs with the right training and socialization.