| Height | 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 90-110 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Independent / Friendly / Inquisitive [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Western Europe [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 59 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The popular misconception is that Bloodhounds spend their days lazing on the front porch. The truth is that the Bloodhound, who was bred to follow a scent for hours on end, is an active dog who requires daily exercise. He will benefit from long daily walks'¿always on a leash, as he may not respond to commands if he has found a scent to follow. [1]
Grooming
The Bloodhound has a short, dense coat that is shed once or twice a year. Weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove will remove the dead hair before it can fall onto the furniture. Brushing also promotes new hair growth and distributes skin oils throughout the coat to keep it healthy. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Like other large, deep-chested dogs, Bloodhounds can experience bloat. Bloodhound owners should educate themselves to recognize the symptoms of this life-threatening condition, and know what to do should it happen. Bloodhounds are notorious for eating anything and everything, which can often lead to vet visits. The Bloodhound's low-hanging ears should be checked daily for any sign of infection. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Cardiac Exam. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Bloodhound in 1885. [1]
- It ranked No. 59 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 49 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Sleuth Hound.” [1]
- The AKC lists Western Europe as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 5/5
- ⚠️ Think twice: Neat freaks: AKC rates drooling 5/5
Common questions
How long do Bloodhounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
How big does a Bloodhound get?
AKC breed information lists height 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female) and weight 90-110 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Bloodhound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Bloodhound, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.