Bluetick vs Redbone Coonhound: Key Differences Explained

Bluetick vs Redbone Coonhound? The fastest way to tell them apart is the coat: the Bluetick has a mottled, ticked black-and-blue coat, while the Redbone has a solid, rich mahogany red coat. Both are American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized coonhounds (both in 2009), both trail raccoons and tree them, and both are known as friendly, easygoing dogs at home. Their ancestry and hunting style differ a little.

Below is a side-by-side comparison, what each breed is like to live with, and the downsides to know before you bring one home. Coonhound fan? See our coonhound shirts and hoodies.

Bluetick vs Redbone Coonhound at a glance

Source for the table: the AKC guide to the coonhound breeds (AKC).

Bluetick Coonhound: what the AKC says

The AKC describes the Bluetick as "intelligent and versatile and known for its mottled, or ticked black-and-blue, glossy coat." It adds that when picking up a raccoon's scent, "Blueticks can be selective, with some preferring to track the animal and others choosing to chase it up a tree."

Blueticks are not only for the woods. According to the AKC, with positive training they will take part in obedience, agility, AKC Rally and Fast CAT. The breed traces back to French staghounds and appears in the novel "Old Yeller."

Redbone Coonhound: what the AKC says

The AKC lists "a medium build, pleading eyes, a sweet voice, and a rich, deep mahogany coat" as what sets the Redbone apart. It calls the breed "fast, agile, and tenacious," able to cover ground "from lowlands to steep, rocky hills," and notes it "can pick up a trail that may be weeks old."

Many readers know the Redbone from Wilson Rawls' novel "Where the Red Fern Grows," about a boy who trains two Redbone Coonhounds in the Ozark Mountains.

What are the differences in hunting?

Both breeds do the same core job. The AKC explains that coonhounds trail raccoons until the animal climbs a tree, then, "trained not to attack, the hounds press their front legs onto the tree trunk and sound out distinctive baying and howling until the hunter arrives." Within that job, hunters often describe individual dogs more than breeds: drive, voice and how cold a trail a dog can work vary dog to dog. Choose a pup from proven hunting lines if you plan to hunt.

What are the downsides of owning a coonhound?

• The voice. Baying and howling is part of the breed's job and is loud. Close neighbors may notice.
• The nose. A scent hound will follow a trail and ignore you. Use a leash and a secure fence.
• Shedding. The AKC notes the short, smooth coats "shed to some degree."
• Exercise. These are working dogs. They relax well at home after they have had a real outlet.

Which coonhound is right for you?

If you love the blue ticked look and want a versatile dog that can also do dog sports, the Bluetick is a great fit. If you want the classic solid red hound with a sweet voice, the Redbone is hard to beat. Either way, meet the parents and ask the breeder about voice, energy and hunting lines. Comparing bird dogs too? Read English Setter vs Llewellin Setter.

Show off your hound on your next hunt or around town. Our coonhound apparel includes hoodies, long sleeve shirts, sweatshirts and T-shirts with a custom name. Styles vary by design, so check each product page.

FAQ

What is the difference between a Bluetick and a Redbone Coonhound?

The coat is the clearest difference: Blueticks are ticked black and blue, Redbones are solid mahogany red. Their ancestry differs too: Blueticks trace to French staghounds, Redbones to red Foxhounds.

Are Redbone Coonhounds protective of their owners?

The AKC describes coonhounds as friendly and easygoing at home and loyal to their people. They tend to be alert and vocal rather than aggressive, but every dog is an individual.

What are the downsides of owning a Bluetick Coonhound?

A loud bay, a strong urge to follow scent, some shedding and a need for daily exercise.

Are coonhounds good family dogs?

Many are. The AKC notes coonhounds love snuggle time with their owners and are comfortable around other dogs, as long as their exercise needs are met.