Redbone Coonhound
The Redbone Coonhound is described by the AKC as eager to please, even-tempered, amiable, a member of the Hound Group, originally from United States.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 22-27 inches (male), 21-26 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 45-70 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Eager To Please / Even-Tempered / Amiable [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 146 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Redbone Coonhound is a friendly, energetic canine athlete and makes a wonderful companion for someone who is an active runner, biker, or hiker. He needs a lot of physical activity to stay healthy and happy. The breed has a very strong instinct to follow his nose and go off after prey, so he should never be allowed off leash in an uncontrolled situation. [1]
Grooming
The Redbone Conhound's short, smooth, protective coat requires a minimum of care. Using a shedding tool or grooming mitt at least weekly will help keep shedding to a minimum. This action also distributes skin oils down the hair shaft, giving his coat a natural shine. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Redbone Coonhounds are generally healthy dogs. Responsible breeders test their stock for health concerns and communicate with other dedicated breeders regularly, working together for breed health and preservation of the breed's unique qualities. A Redbone's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste formulated for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life. [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 Redbone Coonhound in 2009. [1]
- It ranked No. 146 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 139 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Redbone.” [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
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ 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 Redbone Coonhounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Redbone Coonhound get?
AKC breed information lists height 22-27 inches (male), 21-26 inches (female) and weight 45-70 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Redbone Coonhound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Redbone Coonhound, 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.