Giant-sized dogs that are active, playful and will follow a scent for days on end. Hide the food.

45-bloodhound

Don’t leave last night’s dinner lying around as a Bloodhound will find it before you’ve had time to scoop it into your lunchbox. Their ability to follow scents is second to none and they are interested in every tree, pole and blade of grass. Good luck trying to call your Bloodhound back when they are ‘on the trail’ as they will be too absorbed to hear you.

They are intelligent and can be trained but recall is difficult. It’s best to let them play in a fenced space. Big dwellings with yards are ideal for these pets. Generally, they are reserved, sensitive yet friendly, and they get along well with children. They are not ideal watchdogs and will instead try to befriend an intruder. They also like to sniff people out before meeting them. Bloodhounds don’t like water, but can still track a scent if the water is shallow enough.

Fun fact: Bloodhounds have the best nose of all the hounds

and have been known to follow trails for more than 72 hours!

Bloodhounds’ long floppy ears and sagging eyes contribute to their ability to smell. However, they are also prone to dribbling, so beware of your carpet. They are not noisy animals. Don’t expect to hear them bark unless someone is approaching the house.

They have bundles of energy and benefit from regular exercise. Their sweet temperament means they’ll be befriending the cat too. Bloodhounds shed little and look their best when brushed weekly. Regularly check their ears and eyes. They stop growing around 12-18 months of age.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. They are a relatively healthy breed and free from most genetic disorders. However, hip and elbow dysplasia have been known to occur in Bloodhounds, and eye problems due to their droopy eyelids are common. Together with your vet, you can determine a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

A Bloodhound is a giant-sized breed weighing between 36-50kgs, with a height between 58-69cms.

Space

A big dwelling or a yard is ideal for this breed.

Energy Levels

High energy levels mean this breed is continually on the go. Lots of walks, runs and plenty of games will keep your Bloodhound a happy chap.

Difficulty of Training

They are intelligent, but have a mind of their own and when trailing a scent are difficult to control. Consistency is key.

Family Suitability

They are great family pets and loyal companions.

Suitability with other Pets

Bloodhounds will befriend other pets in no time at all.

Need for Company

They have a high need for company and enjoy spending time with their family.  

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

No 

Coat and Grooming Needs

Bloodhounds are low-maintenance. Simply brush their coat weekly. They have a short and smooth coat, usually in black, tan, liver or a mix of these colours.  

Shedding

They are light shedders.

Tendency to Bark

They have a low tendency to bark, so don’t expect frequent conversations.

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