Bluetick Coonhound
The Bluetick Coonhound is described by the AKC as devoted, smart, tenacious, a member of the Hound Group, originally from United States.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 22-27 inches (male), 21-25 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 55-80 pounds (male), 45-65 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 11–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Devoted / Smart / Tenacious [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 132 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Blueticks are bred as hunting dogs and benefit from getting plenty of exercise, although they also enjoy time spent snoozing at their owner's feet. They will enjoy play sessions with their owner in a securely fenced yard, or long walks on a leash'¿remember that he is a scent hound with a strong prey drive. In addition to hunting and field trials, canine sports like agility and tracking are good outlets into which to channel the Bluetick's energy. [1]
Grooming
The Bluetick Coonhound has a short, glossy coat that sheds only moderately. Weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt, or a hound glove will help to remove loose hairs and keep him looking his best. In general, Blueticks require only an occasional bath, unless they've gotten into something especially messy. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Bluetick Coonhound is generally a healthy breed. Any deep-chested dog may be susceptible to bloat, a sudden and life-threatening condition where the stomach distends and can also twist, cutting off blood supply to organs. Owners should educate themselves as to the symptoms that indicate bloat is occurring and what to do if so. The Bluetick's low-hanging ears should be checked daily for any signs of infection. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [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 Bluetick Coonhound in 2009. [1]
- It ranked No. 132 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 123 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Bluetick.” [1]
- The AKC lists United States as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 1 recommended health screening for breeding dogs, such as No recommended health tests. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Bluetick Coonhounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 11-12 years.
How big does a Bluetick Coonhound get?
AKC breed information lists height 22-27 inches (male), 21-25 inches (female) and weight 55-80 pounds (male), 45-65 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Bluetick Coonhound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Bluetick Coonhound, 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.