Redbone Coonhound

The Redbone Coonhound is an American made breed that is descended from Foxhounds and Bloodhounds. In the late 1700s, Red Foxhounds were imported into the United States with Scottish immigrants. Before the Civil War, Red Irish Foxhounds were also brought with the Irish settlers. By the late 18th century, coon hunters needed a faster, hotter nosed dog that could locate and tree raccoons quicker than the current breeds in the area. By crossing these immigrant breeds, this faster dog was born. For several years, breeding concentrated on creating a nearly solid colored red dog bred for its speed and agility in various terrains. Many early versions of the breed had black coloring over their backs resembling a saddle, and were called “Saddlebacks.” As the red color was favored, the black saddle was eventually bred out of the breed. George Birdsong, a famous Georgian fox hunter and dog breeder, obtained a pack of this breed in 1840, and successfully refined it. Many believe the Redbone Coonhound owes its name to its striking red color, but more likely it is named for Peter Redbone, a Tennessee promoter of the breed. In 1902, the Redbone Coonhound was recognized by the United Kennel Club. Familiarity of the breed grew after the book, and subsequent movie, “Where the Red Fern Grows,” which featured two Redbone Coonhounds. Today, this dog is still a versatile hunter which cannot only tree raccoons, but also bears, cougars, and bobcats too. The American Kennel Club finally recognized the breed in 2009.