Treeing Walker Coonhound

Get to Know Treeing Walker Coonhounds

• Bred to Chase and “Tree” Raccoons: Tree Walker Coonhounds were developed specifically for hunting raccoons and other small game. Their name comes from their ability to track a scent trail and then “tree” the animal—meaning the prey is forced up a tree, where the dog can alert the hunter.
• A Powerful Nose With Incredible Tracking Ability: This breed has a highly developed sense of smell and can follow faint trails for long distances. Their tracking instincts make them excellent scent hounds and valuable working dogs in hunting circles.
• Signature “Baying” Voice: Tree Walker Coonhounds are known for their loud, musical baying when on a trail. This vocal style helps hunters follow the dog’s progress and locate the prey during a hunt.
• Built for Long-Distance Endurance: Unlike many hunting breeds, Tree Walkers can work for hours without tiring. Their lean, athletic bodies and strong lungs make them ideal for rugged terrain and long hunts.
• Surprisingly Social for a Hunting Breed: While bred for hunting, Tree Walkers are typically friendly and affectionate with their families. They enjoy being part of a pack and often get along well with other dogs.

Breed History

The Tree Walker Coonhound was developed in the United States by crossing several hound breeds, including the English Foxhound, the American Foxhound, and various Black and Tan breeds. The goal was to create a dog with a powerful nose, strong endurance, and the ability to work independently while tracking game. The breed became popular in the American South and Midwest, where raccoon hunting was a common sport and livelihood. Today, Tree Walkers are still used for hunting but are also valued as active, loyal family dogs by people who can meet their high exercise needs.

Personality and Behaviour

• High Energy & Drive: Tree Walkers have strong hunting instincts and need plenty of activity to stay balanced. Without sufficient exercise, they can become restless or destructive.
• Friendly & Pack-Oriented: They generally enjoy being around people and other dogs. They thrive in homes where they’re included in family life and given social interaction.
• Independent Thinkers: This breed is used to working on its own in the field and may sometimes seem stubborn or distracted. Training requires patience and consistency.

Care

• Exercise: They require daily vigorous exercise such as long walks, running, hiking, or scent work to satisfy their high energy and tracking instincts.
• Training: Use firm, consistent, reward-based training; early obedience and recall work is crucial due to their strong prey drive.
• Grooming: Their short coat is easy to maintain, needing only occasional brushing to remove loose hair.