Plott Hound Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you in the market for a new furry friend and considering a Plott Hound breed dog? If so, you’re in for a treat! These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and athleticism. They originated in the United States and were originally bred for hunting purposes, but they also make great family pets. Plott Hounds are highly energetic and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, but their affectionate nature and protective instincts make them a great addition to any household. Read on to learn more about the Plott Hound breed and what to expect if you bring one into your home.

Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: United States
Average Size:53-69 cm
Average Weight:20-32 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Plott Hound is a breed of dog that originated in the United States, specifically in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. The breed is named after the Plott family, who were German immigrants that settled in the area in the 1750s. The Plott family brought with them a pack of hunting dogs, which they used to hunt wild boar and other game in the rugged terrain of the mountains. Over time, the Plott family developed a distinct breed of dog that was well-suited to the harsh conditions of the region.

The Plott Hound is a medium to large-sized dog, with a muscular build and a short, smooth coat. The breed is known for its keen sense of smell and its ability to track game over long distances. Plott Hounds are also known for their courage and tenacity, which makes them excellent hunting dogs. In addition to hunting, Plott Hounds have also been used for search and rescue, as well as for law enforcement purposes.

The Plott Hound was recognized as a breed by the United Kennel Club in 1946, and by the American Kennel Club in 2006. Despite its recognition as a breed, the Plott Hound remains relatively unknown outside of its native region. However, the breed has a dedicated following among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, who appreciate its hunting abilities and its loyalty as a companion.

The Plott Hound is descended from a variety of breeds, including the Hanoverian Hound, the Bavarian Hound, and the Bloodhound. The breed was developed by the Plott family over several generations, with an emphasis on breeding dogs that were strong, fast, and fearless. The Plott family also bred their dogs for their distinctive brindle coat, which is a hallmark of the breed.

The Plott Hound has a rich history in the United States, and has played a significant role in the development of the Appalachian region. The breed has been used for hunting, search and rescue, and law enforcement, and has been a loyal companion to generations of families in the region. Today, the Plott Hound remains an important part of the cultural heritage of the Appalachian Mountains, and is a beloved breed among dog enthusiasts around the world.

Size and Breed Category

The Plott Hound is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that originated in the United States. They are known for their muscular build and athletic abilities, making them excellent hunting companions. Plott Hounds typically weigh between 45-70 pounds and stand at a height of 20-25 inches at the shoulder. They have a short, smooth coat that can come in a variety of colors, including brindle, black, and tan. Plott Hounds are classified as a scent hound breed, meaning they have a keen sense of smell and are often used for tracking game. They are also known for their loyalty and intelligence, making them great family pets.

The Plott Hound is a member of the hound group, which is known for their hunting instincts and abilities. They were originally bred in North Carolina by the Plott family, who used them for hunting wild boar and other game. Plott Hounds are known for their endurance and stamina, which allows them to keep up with their prey for long periods of time. They are also known for their courage and tenacity, making them excellent hunting companions. Plott Hounds are a versatile breed and can also be trained for other activities, such as agility and obedience competitions. They are a loyal and affectionate breed, making them great companions for active families.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Plott Hound is short and dense, providing excellent protection against harsh weather conditions. The coat is smooth to the touch and lies close to the body, giving the dog a sleek and athletic appearance. The fur is typically black, brindle, or a combination of the two, with the brindle pattern consisting of dark stripes on a lighter background. The black fur can range from a shiny jet black to a duller charcoal color. The brindle and black colors can also be mixed together, creating a unique and striking coat pattern. Overall, the fur of the Plott Hound is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The Plott Hound’s fur color can also vary depending on the individual dog. Some Plott Hounds may have a solid black or brindle coat, while others may have a mix of both colors. The brindle pattern can also vary in intensity, with some dogs having a more subtle pattern and others having a more pronounced one. Additionally, some Plott Hounds may have white markings on their chest, feet, or face, which can add to their overall appearance. Regardless of the specific fur color and pattern, the Plott Hound’s coat is always eye-catching and adds to their unique and distinctive look.

Termperament and Trainability

Plott Hounds are known for their high energy and strong-willed temperament. They are a breed that requires an experienced owner who can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Plott Hounds are intelligent and independent, which can make them challenging to train. However, with patience and consistency, they can be taught a variety of commands and tricks. They are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, making them great companions for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to train them.

When it comes to trainability, Plott Hounds are known for their hunting instincts. They were originally bred for hunting big game, such as bears and wild boars, and have a strong prey drive. This can make them difficult to train off-leash, as they may be easily distracted by scents or sights. Plott Hounds respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, such as treats and praise, but may become stubborn if they feel they are being forced to do something they don’t want to do. It’s important for owners to establish themselves as the pack leader and provide consistent training from a young age to ensure their Plott Hound is well-behaved and obedient.

Known Health Conditions

Plott Hounds are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected joint. Plott Hounds may also develop eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to blindness. Additionally, they may be at risk for bloat, a condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Other health concerns for Plott Hounds include ear infections, allergies, and skin problems.

Another health condition that Plott Hounds may experience is hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin and coat problems. Plott Hounds may also be prone to certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and mast cell tumors. It is important for owners to regularly check their dog for any lumps or bumps and to have them examined by a veterinarian if any are found. Finally, Plott Hounds may be at risk for heart problems such as dilated cardiomyopathy, which can cause heart failure. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help detect and manage any health issues that may arise in Plott Hounds.

Openness to Strangers

Plott Hounds have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming to strangers. They are known to be sociable and enjoy meeting new people. This breed is often described as outgoing and approachable, making them a popular choice for families and individuals who enjoy having guests over. Plott Hounds are not typically shy or reserved around strangers, and they tend to be curious and interested in meeting new people. They are also known for their loyalty and protective nature, which can make them excellent watchdogs. Overall, Plott Hounds are a friendly and welcoming breed that enjoys meeting new people and making new friends.

Despite their friendly nature, Plott Hounds can be cautious around strangers at first. They may take a few moments to assess a new person before approaching them, but once they feel comfortable, they are quick to make friends. This breed is known for their intelligence and adaptability, which allows them to quickly adjust to new situations and environments. Plott Hounds are also highly trainable, which can make them excellent companions for those who enjoy spending time with their dogs. Overall, Plott Hounds are a friendly and adaptable breed that can be cautious around strangers at first, but quickly warm up to new people and situations.

Playfulness Level

The Plott Hound is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog that loves to be active. They have a natural instinct to hunt and chase, which makes them great companions for outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and playing fetch. Their playful nature also makes them great with children, as they love to run around and play games with their human friends. However, their high energy levels mean that they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Despite their playful nature, Plott Hounds are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts. They are fiercely devoted to their owners and will do whatever it takes to protect them from harm. This makes them great watchdogs, as they will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger. However, their protective instincts can sometimes lead to aggression towards strangers or other animals, so it is important to socialize them from a young age. Overall, the Plott Hound is a fun-loving and loyal breed that makes a great companion for active families.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Plott Hounds have a friendly and loyal temperament, making them a great pet for children. They are energetic and love to play, which can help keep children active and engaged. Plott Hounds are also intelligent and easy to train, which can be a great learning experience for children. However, they do require regular exercise and may not be suitable for families with limited outdoor space. Additionally, Plott Hounds have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for families with small pets.

Exercise Needs

Plott Hounds require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium to large breed, they need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, which can be achieved through brisk walks, runs, or hikes. These dogs have a high energy level and enjoy activities that challenge their endurance and agility, such as playing fetch or participating in canine sports like agility or flyball. It is important to note that Plott Hounds have a strong prey drive and may be prone to chasing small animals, so they should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area during exercise.

In addition to physical exercise, Plott Hounds also benefit from mental stimulation. These intelligent dogs enjoy learning new commands and tricks, and training sessions can be a great way to provide mental exercise. Puzzle toys and interactive games can also help keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom. Plott Hounds are social animals and enjoy spending time with their owners, so incorporating exercise and playtime into daily routines can help strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Overall, providing adequate exercise and mental stimulation is essential for the health and happiness of Plott Hounds.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Plott Hounds have been known to coexist peacefully with other pets in the household. They are generally friendly and sociable dogs, and with proper socialization and training, they can learn to get along with other animals. However, as with any breed, individual temperament and personality can vary, and some Plott Hounds may be more prone to aggression towards other pets. It is important to introduce them to other animals slowly and carefully, and to supervise their interactions to ensure everyone’s safety.

Housing Requirements

Plott Hounds require a living space that is large enough to accommodate their active and energetic nature. They need a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise every day, which can be achieved through walks, runs, or playtime in a secure and spacious backyard. A fenced yard is essential as Plott Hounds have a strong prey drive and may chase after small animals. Additionally, they are known for their loud and distinctive baying, which can be disruptive to neighbors. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the living space is located in an area where noise will not be an issue.

Plott Hounds also require a comfortable and cozy sleeping area. They are a short-haired breed and may feel the cold during the winter months, so a warm and insulated bed is necessary. They are also prone to developing joint problems, so a supportive bed that is easy to access is important. Plott Hounds are social animals and enjoy being around their human family, so their sleeping area should be located in a part of the house where they can be close to their owners. Additionally, they are known for their strong sense of smell, so it is important to keep their sleeping area clean and free of any strong odors that may cause discomfort.

Summary

Plott Hounds have a reputation for being loyal and intelligent companions. They are known for their hunting abilities and have a strong sense of smell. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Plott Hounds can be good with children and other pets if socialized properly. They may not be suitable for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels and strong prey drive.

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