The coonhound pitbull mix is a cross between two popular dog breeds – the coonhound and the pitbull terrier. This mixed breed combines the tracking abilities of the coonhound with the strength and loyalty of the pitbull, making for an excellent companion.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the characteristics, temperament, appearance, health issues, exercise needs and more of the coonhound pitbull mix.
An Overview of the Coonhound Pitbull Mix
A coonhound pitbull mix is the offspring of a purebred American or English coonhound and an American pit bull terrier. It’s a crossbreed or hybrid dog that mixes the genes of those two pure breeds.
Crossbreeding allows breeders to produce dogs with more genetic diversity and hybrid vigor – which means they tend to be healthier than their purebred parents. It also lets them pick and choose which traits get passed down.
For the coonhound pitbull mix, the goal is to produce affectionate dogs that retain the coonhound’s keen sense of smell and tracking ability along with the pitbull’s strength, agility and loyalty.
Coonhound Pitbull Mix Appearance
The coonhound pitbull mix is a medium to large dog, ranging from 45 to 80 pounds at a height of 20 to 26 inches. Their coat can take more after either parent:
- Coonhound coat: Short and dense double-layer coat that can come in colors like red, black and tan, blue or tricolor. Ears are long and floppy.
- Pitbull coat: Short, smooth and shiny coat that comes in color variations of brown, black, white, fawn or red. Ears are small and erect.
Commonly seen coat colors for the coonhound and pitbull cross include black, brown, white, fawn, red and tricolor. Their muzzle is long with a black nose and oval-shaped eyes. They have a strong, athletic build with a deep chest.
Temperament of Coonhound Pitbull Mixes
Despite the pitbull parent having an unfair reputation, a well-bred and properly socialized coonhound crossed with a pitbull makes for a very loyal and affectionate dog.
They love being around their family – including kids – and have an innate desire to please their owners. Like both parent breeds, they are active dogs that thrive when given a “job” to do.
Early socialization and obedience training will ensure these hybrids grow up to be well-rounded canine citizens. Well-adjusted coonhound pitbull mixes do well with other pets when properly introduced.
As long as they get sufficient exercise and stimulation, these crossbreeds are sweet, goofy and pleasant to be around. Leaving them alone or not giving them enough activity can lead to boredom and destructive tendencies.
Coonhound Pitbull Mix Temperament and Behavior
Here’s a closer look at what to expect from the coonhound crossed with pitbull terrier when it comes to temperament and behavior:
- Affectionate – They love being around their family and will often try being lap dogs despite their larger size.
- Loyal – These mixed breeds bond very closely with their owners. Proper care and they’ll be devoted companions.
- Friendly – Typically good-natured, happy dogs that like meeting new people. Early socialization is key.
- Intelligent – They’re smart and capable of learning new commands relatively quickly.
- Courageous – Makes them bold watchdogs that will bark to alert owners of anything suspicious.
- Active – Requires a good amount of daily activity and playtime.
The coonhound parent gives them strong tracking and hunting instincts. The pitbull side contributes confidence, strength and athleticism.
Proper training and socialization goes a long way to ensure good behavior despite instincts to wander, chase small animals or dig.
Taking Care of a Coonhound Pitbull Mix
While crossbreeds can be healthy, there are some medical issues that can be passed down from their purebred lineage:
- Ear infections – Floppy coonhound ears can trap moisture.
- Hip dysplasia – Malformed hip socket. More prevalent in larger dogs.
- Heart conditions – Inherited from pitbull parent.
- Allergies – Possible skin allergies to food or environment.
With proper nutrition, exercise, training and veterinary care, a coonhound mixed with pitbull terrier can live a long and healthy life of 10 to 14 years.
Feeding
As medium to large-sized dogs, coonhound pitbull mixes need to eat 3-4 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily. Split into two smaller meals.
Grooming
Their short coats require infrequent grooming. Occasional brushing to control shedding along with regular nail clipping, teeth brushing and ear cleaning is all they need.
Exercise
Highly energetic dogs that need 60+ minutes of rigorous exercise like running, hiking or playing fetch. Activity keeps them fit and well-behaved.
Training
Intelligent dogs capable of learning quickly but early obedience training is a must. Helps curb wandering tendencies and reinforce good manners.
Family Life
Loving dogs that make wonderful family pets as long as they get proper attention and activity. Good with kids but supervision is still required due to size.
Finding Coonhound Pitbull Mix Puppies
There aren’t many breeders that specifically focus on breeding designer dogs like the coonhound pitbull mix.
However, with the popularity of hybrid vigor dogs on the rise, you can expand your search for reputable breeders that specialize in coonhounds, pitbulls or general crossbreed litters.
A good breeder will health screen parent dogs and puppies for medical issues, have you sign a contract, offer health guarantees and responsibly plan litters. Cost ranges from $500 to over $1000.
Adoption is another great option. Check local shelters and rescue groups for coonhound pit mixes in need of forever homes. Adoption fees are typically under $500 and include medical care plus spay/neuter.
Is a Coonhound Pitbull Mix the Right Dog For You?
Before bringing one of these crosses home, make sure you can provide for their needs which primarily involves:
- Space – Best suited for a house with a securely fenced yard. Their size and energy makes apartment living challenging.
- Activity – Long daily walks, runs, hikes plus high-intensity games and toys. Escape artists that get bored easily.
- Attention – Affectionate dogs that can develop separation anxiety if frequently left alone for long periods.
- Training – Responds best to positive reinforcement techniques. Helps curb wandering/prey drive tendencies.
- Grooming – Occasional brushing and regular care of nails, teeth ears and eyes.
If you enjoy an athletic companion that also loves snuggling on the couch, the loyal coonhound mixed with pitbull can make a wonderful pet! Their hybrid vigor makes them healthier and their intelligence means they pick up on commands quickly.
Early socialization gives them a friendly attitude around other pets while proper training keeps their instincts in check. Give them the physical activity, mental stimulation and affection they crave and they’ll return the favor with years of unwavering devotion.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Coonhound Pitbull Mix
Here are answers to some common questions about this hybrid dog:
Are coonhound pitbull mixes aggressive?
A: With proper breeding, socialization and handling, coonhound crossed with pitbull terriers do not display aggression. They can make excellent family companions.
How big do coonhound pitbull mixes get?
A: They range from 45-80 pounds (20-36 kg) and grow 20 to 26 inches (51-66 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Do coonhound pitbull mixes shed a lot of hair?
A: Their short coats only shed moderately. Brushing them once a week helps manage loose hair.
What colors do they come in?
A: Black, brown, white, fawn, red and tricolor coats are commonly seen color variations.
Are coonhound pit mixes easy to train?
A: Yes, they are intelligent crossbreeds capable of learning quickly. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training is recommended.
How much exercise does a coonhound pitbull mix need?
A: At least 60+ minutes of vigorous daily activity like running, hiking and playing interactive games.
What health issues do coonhound crossed with pitbulls have?
A: Possible conditions include ear infections, hip dysplasia, skin allergies and cardiac problems.
In Summary
The coonhound pitbull mix brings together the tracking nose and endurance of the coonhound with the strength and devotion of the pitbull terrier. The result is an affectionate, energetic and loyal canine companion.
This crossbreed thrives when given proper attention, activity outlets and training reinforcement to shape good behavior. Their hybrid vigor gives them increased health over their purebred lineage.
If you have the time, energy and space to meet their needs, few dogs will match the unwavering companionship of the coonhound crossed with an American pit bull terrier.