The Ultimate Guide to Tree Walker Hounds: A Hunter's Faithful Companion

Introduction

The Tree Walker Coonhound, renowned for its exceptional hunting abilities and unwavering loyalty, is a highly prized breed among outdoor enthusiasts and hunting enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive guide delves into the history, characteristics, and exceptional capabilities of these remarkable canines, providing valuable insights for potential owners and those seeking to further their knowledge of this remarkable breed.

History and Origin

Tree Walker Hounds trace their lineage to the American Foxhound and the English Coonhound, two breeds renowned for their superior hunting instincts and unwavering determination. Developed in the rugged hills of Tennessee, Tree Walkers were bred to possess a unique combination of speed, agility, and stamina, allowing them to effectively pursue and tree prey in challenging terrain.

The name "Tree Walker" derives from the breed's exceptional ability to climb trees, a trait that proved invaluable when pursuing quarry such as raccoons and opossums. Their keen sense of smell and vocal prowess further enhanced their hunting effectiveness, making them formidable partners in the field.

Physical Characteristics

Tree Walker Hounds are medium to large-sized dogs, typically standing between 20 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. They exhibit a muscular and athletic build, with an平均重量 ranging from 50 to 80 pounds. Their coats are short and smooth, with a dominant black, tan, and white coloration.

Their heads are distinctive, featuring a broad skull with a slightly domed forehead. Their eyes are large and expressive, often displaying a warm amber hue. Their ears are long and pendant, falling gracefully to frame their face.

Temperament and Personality

Tree Walker Hounds are highly intelligent and trainable dogs, possessing a natural eagerness to please their owners. They are affectionate and devoted companions, forming strong bonds with their families.

As hunting dogs, they exhibit a strong prey drive and unwavering determination. Their keen sense of smell and agility make them well-suited for pursuing game in a variety of terrains.

Despite their hunting instincts, Tree Walkers are generally gentle and friendly towards humans, including children. However, they can become territorial if not properly socialized.

Health and Care

Tree Walker Hounds are generally healthy and robust dogs, with an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health conditions, including:

• Hip Dysplasia: A condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and lameness.
• Elbow Dysplasia: A similar condition affecting the elbow joint.
• Bloat: A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists upon itself.

Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and adequate exercise can help ensure the well-being and longevity of Tree Walker Hounds.

Training and Exercise

Tree Walker Hounds are highly intelligent and trainable dogs, but they require consistent and patient training to harness their full potential. Early socialization is essential to curb any territorial or aggressive tendencies.

Training should focus on positive reinforcement and rewards, with an emphasis on socialization and obedience commands.

Tree Walker Hounds possess high energy levels and require ample exercise to stay fit and healthy. Daily walks, playtime in a fenced yard, or opportunities to hunt are all suitable activities to meet their exercise needs.

Hunting Abilities

Tree Walker Hounds are exceptional hunters, renowned for their ability to track and tree quarry. Their keen sense of smell allows them to follow even the faintest scent trails, while their speed and agility enable them to navigate challenging terrain with ease.

They are particularly effective in pursuing raccoons and opossums, but they have also been known to hunt bears, deer, and even bobcats.

Nutritional Needs

Tree Walker Hounds are active dogs with high energy requirements. Their diet should consist of a high-quality kibble specifically formulated for active breeds.

It is important to avoid overfeeding, as obesity can contribute to health problems such as joint pain and heart disease.

Grooming

Tree Walker Hounds have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hair and keep their coats healthy and shiny.

bathing should be done as needed, using a mild shampoo specifically formulated for dogs.

Tips and Tricks

• Socialize early: Exposing Tree Walker Hounds to a variety of people, animals, and environments at a young age will help prevent territorial or aggressive behaviors.
• Provide ample exercise: Tree Walkers are highly active dogs that require regular exercise to stay fit and happy. Aim for at least an hour of exercise per day.
• Train with positive reinforcement: Tree Walkers respond well to positive reinforcement and rewards. Avoid harsh punishment, as it can damage the bond between you and your dog.
• Hunt with an experienced mentor: If you are new to hunting with Tree Walkers, consider hunting with an experienced mentor who can provide guidance and support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to obesity and related health problems. Feed your Tree Walker Hound according to their activity level and weight.
• Lack of exercise: Tree Walkers are active dogs that require regular exercise. Insufficient exercise can lead to boredom, destructive behaviors, and weight gain.
• Poor socialization: Lack of socialization can lead to territorial or aggressive behaviors. Expose your Tree Walker Hound to a variety of people, animals, and environments at a young age.
• Harsh punishment: Tree Walkers respond well to positive reinforcement and rewards. Harsh punishment can damage the bond between you and your dog and hinder their training progress.
• Hunting without training: Hunting with an untrained Tree Walker Hound can be ineffective and dangerous. Train your dog basic obedience commands and hunting techniques before taking them into the field.

Step-by-Step Approach to Training a Tree Walker Hound

1. Start with basic obedience commands: Teach your Tree Walker Hound basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. This will provide a foundation for more advanced training.
2. Introduce tracking: Once your dog has mastered basic obedience commands, you can begin introducing tracking. Start with short, easy trails in a familiar area.
3. Practice hunting drills: Once your dog has mastered tracking, you can practice hunting drills. This involves teaching your dog to locate prey, bark at the tree, and hold the tree until you arrive.
4. Field training: After your dog has mastered hunting drills, you can begin field training. This involves taking your dog hunting in a variety of environments and conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Tree Walker Hounds good family dogs? Yes, Tree Walker Hounds are generally good family dogs. They are affectionate and loyal, and they enjoy the company of children.
2. Are Tree Walker Hounds easy to train? Tree Walker Hounds are intelligent and trainable dogs, but they require consistent and patient training. They respond well to positive reinforcement and rewards.
3. How much exercise do Tree Walker Hounds need? Tree Walker Hounds are highly active dogs that require at least an hour of exercise per day. Daily walks, playtime in a fenced yard, or opportunities to hunt are all suitable activities to meet their exercise needs.
4. What is the average lifespan of a Tree Walker Hound? The average lifespan of a Tree Walker Hound is 10 to 12 years.
5. Are Tree Walker Hounds prone to any health problems? Tree Walker Hounds are generally healthy dogs, but they can be susceptible to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat.
6. How much do Tree Walker Hounds cost? The cost of a Tree Walker Hound can vary depending on the breeder, the bloodline, and the age of the dog. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,000 for a Tree Walker Hound puppy.

Conclusion

The Tree Walker Coonhound is a remarkable breed that combines exceptional hunting abilities, unwavering loyalty, and a gentle and affectionate nature. Their keen sense of smell