Top 10 Hound Dog Breeds

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Top 10 Hound Dog Breeds

Introduction

The hound is the original hunting dog and has been helping men hunt since ancient times. Whether you need a scent hunter or a sight hunter, hounds can do it all. In fact, there are even breeds that hunt at night or in the water. From the Coonhound to the Otterhound, there is a hound for any prey you seek. But hounds are not just for hunting. In fact, many people get hounds for their furiendliness, loyalty, loving personality, and superior intelligence. Most hound breeds are furrific with children and other pets too. Here are the top 10 hound dog breeds we found.

#1 Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is not just the furfect hunter; they are also the most patient and lovable hounds there are. They don’t care if the kiddos climb all over them and pull their ears because they love the attention. In fact, they are so lovable; they'll find the prey for you, but refuse to harm it.

#2 Basset Hound

This short doggo has droopy eyes, long ears, and is gentle and furiendly to everyone. They’re great at hunting and sociable enough to hunt in packs. The Basset Hound is also called the Hush Puppy because of their genial demeanor, stubby legs, and adorable face. This is the “Hound Dog” that Elvis Presley was singing about, and the sidekick to Sherlock Holmes as well.

#3 Beagle

The bouncy Beagle is considered to be one of the most happy-go-lucky and laid-back breeds there are. They like to be in the spotlight, so they tend to act silly for attention. When they aren’t hunting or acting silly, they can be found cuddling up with anyone they can find who will let them.

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#4 American Foxhound

Similar to a Beagle in coloring, but a bit larger, these poochies were developed to hunt in packs and love the chase. The Foxhound is also affectionate and gentle with a smooth coat and easygoing demeanor. They love children and other pets, but may try to hunt smaller animals such as rabbits or hamsters.

#5 Afghan Hound

One of the most beautiful hounds in the world, the Afghan has long, thick flowing hair that can hang all the way to the floor. They come in all diffurent colors and love to flush out rabbits and other prey when they aren’t playing with the kids or other pets.

#6 Bluetick Coonhound

Intelligent, loyal, and brave, the Bluetick Coonhound got their name for their blue-ticked coat, and for hunting nocturnal animals like raccoons. However, they also enjoy playing with older children and are quick to learn just about anything you want to teach them. They do need a lot of exercise, and cannot be trusted around cats or other small pets due to their hunting instincts.

#7 Black and Tan Coonhound

This hound loves to hunt at night and has excellent eyesight for doing so, which is why they are called Coonhounds. While they are gentle and furiendly, young children and other pets are not recommended. These canine companions make great hunting buddies and will help you find whatever you are looking for in the dark.

#8 Greyhound

Thin and sleek, the Greyhound was originally used for racing because of their long, muscular legs and ability to run fast. They are also good at hunting, but would rather be cuddling with you or playing with the kids or other pets. These lovable cuddle-buddies just want all the attention they can get.

#9 Otterhound

Back in the late 1300s, fishermen would use Otterhounds to hunt otters because they were stealing all the fish. According to the AKC, they were bred from the Bulldog, Retriever, Foxhound, Pointer, Beagle, Newfoundland, and Collie, making them strong, intelligent, and brave hunters who can swim like a fish, while still being lovable and gentle family pets.

#10 Redbone Coonhound

The Redbone Coonhound is fast and great at hunting and treeing all kinds of animals, especially raccoons. With excellent vision and hearing, these pooches are pawesome night hunters, and with their red coat, you won’t have to worry about mistaking them for prey. When not hunting, these pups love to play and cuddle with the family.