Plott Hound
The Plott Hound is described by the AKC as Loyal, Alert, Intelligent, a member of the Hound Group, originally from United States.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 20-25 inches (male), 20-23 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 50-60 pounds (male), 40-55 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Loyal / Alert / Intelligent [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 171 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Plotts are tough, relentless athletes requiring lots of exercise and outdoor time. The breed's standard says: "Noted for stamina, endurance, agility, determination, and aggressiveness when hunting, the powerful, well muscled, yet streamlined Plott combines courage with athletic ability." Daily vigorous exercise such as long walks or runs or play sessions with his owner will help to keep the Plott mentally and physically healthy. Because the Plott is extremely prey driven, he should always be walked on leash. [1]
Grooming
The Plott's smooth, fine, glossy coat can be any shade of brindle (a streaked or striped pattern of dark hair imposed on a lighter background), solid black, or have a saddle or markings. It requires minimal maintenance, with just a weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or a hound glove to remove dirt and loose hair. An occasional bath can help keep him from having a doggy odor. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Plotts are generally healthy dogs. A responsible breeder will have had the dog's parents screened for health concerns such as hip dysplasia. Pendant ears such as the Plott's can be prone to infection, so the ears should be checked regularly. The teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [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 Plott Hound in 2006. [1]
- It ranked No. 171 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 149 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Plott.” [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)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
- ✅ 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 Plott Hounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Plott Hound get?
AKC breed information lists height 20-25 inches (male), 20-23 inches (female) and weight 50-60 pounds (male), 40-55 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Plott Hound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Plott Hound, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.