The Treeing Walker Coonhound gained recognition as an independent dog breed in the mid 1940s. The breed is an offshoot of the Tennessee Lead, a dog whose origins cannot be traced, and the Walker Hound. It is a direct descendant of the English Foxhounds imported by Thomas Walker of Virginia in 1974.

Thomas Walker brought the foxhounds to Virginia in an attempt to introduce and establish the foxhunting tradition in America. However, it was not until a few years later before a great number of the population practiced it. Roof rats, squirrels, raccoons, skunks, opossums, bobcats, cougars, and bears ” these are only some of the Treeing Walker Coonhounds favorite prey.

They chase and catch squirrels, raccoons, opossums, skunks, roof rats, bobcats, and even bears. They are famous for their ability to tree their prey and when given the appropriate training, they will be able to bay distinctively, telling its human companion that the chase is over and the prey has been cornered. They are designed to be hunters and learn that skill on their own so they are not very good urban and suburban pets.

Coonhounds are naturally affectionate and are completely efficient aside from being unstoppable and untiring. They are natural athletes and are a lover of warm climates and they love to run around and swim. Agility is one of their most remarkable traits so you would rarely see them lying around to sunbathe or take naps.

Walker hounds can be mistaken for oversized beagles. Treeing Walker Coonhounds usually stand at about 20-28 inches in width and weighs 50-70 pounds. They have lean, straight legs but their shoulders are characteristically powerful.

Coonhounds become restless when they lack physical and mental exercise. Owners thus have to make time taking them to walks or to a dog park where they can play and run around. Because they are lovers of the outdoor and outdoor activities, they are not very suitable for life in apartments.

Although they are hunting and working dogs by nature, they also make good companions as they can deal with children and other dogs quite well. Training Walker Coonhounds is easy as they are able to learn tricks and routines by example but they are classified as scent hounds so there will be times when they will follow their noses rather than follow their human trainer. Their howls are so distinct, owners can easily recognize their own pet when they hear them bay.

Treeing Walker Coonhounds live for 12 to 13 years. They hardly develop major health issues and needs very minimal grooming. Walker Coonhounds need occasional bathing and their ears should also be cleaned and checked for infection regularly.

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