The Treeing Walker Coonhound, a celebrated American hound, is renowned for its speed, intelligence, and distinctive, ringing voice. Nicknamed “the people’s choice” of coonhounds, this type of canine combines the heart of a tenacious hunter with the gentle nature of a family pet. This energetic animal is a picture of sleek athleticism and friendly confidence, making the Treeing Walker a beloved companion both in the field and at home. This medium-sized breed is a true working dog.
All About the Treeing Walker
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a quintessential American hound, prized for its exceptional scenting ability and the stamina to pursue game tirelessly. While they are a driven working animal, these Walkers are also known for their kind and sociable nature, making them a good candidate for a family pet in an active household. This comprehensive breed information is essential for any potential owner.
Vitals and Life Span
Height
51–69 cm
Weight
23–32 kg
Life Span
12–13 yrs
AKC Group
Hound
Origin
United States
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Personality Traits
Ratings (1–5). This canine is known for its high energy, intelligence, and friendly disposition.
History and Origins
The rich history of the Treeing Walker Coonhound is deeply intertwined with the story of American settlement and rural life. This variety was developed to be a superior field companion, capable of tracking game across rugged terrain like a mountain. Its ancestors were English and American Foxhounds, carefully refined for a very specific purpose. The Treeing Walker hound has a storied past.
Colonial Roots
The breed’s story begins with early English Foxhounds imported in 1742 by figures like Thomas Walker. However, the true development of the “Walker” strain is credited to John W. Walker and George Washington Maupin, who refined these Virginia hounds into the superior hunting companions they are today.
A New Purpose
While the foxhound was for the traditional fox hunt, American settlers needed an animal with a different skill set. They required a hound that could track and corner prey that climbs, and were bred primarily to hunt raccoons. The animals were selectively developed to pursue their quarry into branches.
Separation from the English Coonhound
For many years, Treeing Walkers were considered a variety of the English Coonhound. However, due to their distinct speed, hunting style, and appearance, breeders sought separate recognition. The United Kennel Club officially recognized the Treeing Walker Coonhound as a distinct variety in 1945.
AKC Recognition
The popularity of these hounds grew steadily, admired for their skill and pleasant nature, and they were nicknamed “the people’s choice.” The American Kennel Club officially welcomed the Treeing Walker Coonhound into the Hound Group in 2012, cementing its status as a celebrated American canine type.
Family Suitability Assessment
With its friendly demeanor and sociable nature, the Treeing Walker Coonhound can be a fantastic family companion. They are known for being good with children and other canines. However, their identity as a high-stamina hunter comes with specific needs that any potential owner must be prepared to meet. This makes them a good candidate for a family that is active.
✅ Ideal Situations
- Active families that enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and running
- Homes with a large, securely fenced yard for safe play
- Owners who appreciate a vocal animal and have tolerant neighbors
- Households with children and other dogs (with proper introduction)
- Individuals looking for a dedicated and energetic canine partner
❌ Not Recommended For
- Apartment living without a serious commitment to extensive daily exercise
- Sedentary owners or those with limited time for exercise
- People who prefer a quiet companion
- Homes with cats or small pets due to the strong prey drive
- First-time owners who may struggle with their independent streak
Understanding Temperament
The Treeing Walker Coonhound personality is a fascinating mix of a relentless hunter and a loving companion. This canine is smart, brave, and driven in the field, but gentle and friendly at home. Understanding this duality is key to a happy life with this hound.
❤️ Sociable & Friendly
These coonhounds are known for their outgoing and pleasant nature. They are not one-man animals; they are affectionate with the whole family and typically welcoming of strangers once introductions are made.
🗣️ A Famous Voice
A Treeing Walker is a vocal dog. Their signature bay is a clear, ringing voice designed to carry over long distances. While this sound is music to a hunter’s ears, it’s an important consideration for life in a suburban house.
🎯 Driven by Scent
The world of a Walker is experienced through its nose. Their powerful prey drive means that once they catch an interesting scent, their focus can become absolute. This is why they must always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area.
💡 Intelligent & Independent
This is a smart animal, capable of learning quickly. However, like many hounds, they have an independent streak. Training requires patience and positive reinforcement to keep them engaged and focused.
Physical Characteristics
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is built for the hunt, with a sleek, powerful, and athletic frame designed for speed and endurance. This medium-sized animal is the picture of a classic hound, from its floppy ears to its determined expression.
Coat and Color
The Treeing Walker has a short, smooth coat that is glossy and dense. The most common color pattern is tri-color, typically mostly white with black markings and tan trim. Some may be bi-color, such as with tan trim and white markings.
Build and Structure
This hound possesses a strong back, deep chest for lung capacity, and powerful hind legs and well-muscled thighs for explosive speed. Their long legs allow them to cover ground quickly, a key trait for an animal that trees game.
Distinctive Features
The long, floppy ears help funnel scents toward the nose. Their eyes are large and dark, expressing a soft, pleading expression that is characteristic of many coonhounds.
Training & Socialization
Training a Treeing Walker is a rewarding process. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, but their hound instincts can also make them independent thinkers. A successful training approach focuses on positive reinforcement and works with, not against, their natural scent-driven tendencies.
💡 Key Training Tips
Start Socialization Early: Introduce your puppy to various people, sounds, and environments to build a confident, well-adjusted adult.
Positive Reinforcement: This breed responds best to praise, treats, and rewards. Their intelligence shines when training is made into a fun game.
Master the Leash: Their powerful nose can lead them astray. Solid leash training is non-negotiable for their safety.
Be Patient & Consistent: Hounds can be stubborn. Short, engaging, and consistent training sessions work far better than long, repetitive ones.
Health Considerations
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 13 years. Generations of breeding for performance have resulted in a hardy canine. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health concerns. Responsible breeders screen their stock for common genetic issues.
🟡 Common Health Issues
Hip Dysplasia: A common issue in many medium-to-large canines, where the hip joint doesn’t form correctly, which can lead to arthritis.
Eye Conditions: Some may be susceptible to eye problems such as cataracts or primary glaucoma.
Ear Infections: Their long, floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, making regular cleaning essential to prevent infections.
Petroyale Ear Cleanser for Dogs and Cats | Effective & Gentle Formula
Essential for a breed with long, floppy ears. Regular cleaning with a gentle formula helps prevent painful ear infections by removing wax and debris.
View on AmazonGeneral Care
Caring for a Treeing Walker is relatively straightforward in terms of grooming, but their exercise needs are demanding. This is a canine that thrives on activity and requires an owner who can keep up with their boundless energy.
High Exercise Needs
These hounds need a lot of physical activity. A minimum of one hour of vigorous activity is needed daily, though many Treeing Walkers thrive on 90 minutes or more. Long, brisk walks, runs, or hikes are necessary to keep them content. They are true athletes who need an outlet for their energy.
Minimal Grooming
The Walker’s short, smooth coat requires only weekly brushing to remove dead hair. Their coat naturally repels mud and dirt, so baths are only needed occasionally. A wipe-down with a damp towel is often sufficient. Don’t forget nail trims and dental hygiene!
PAYTON PERRY Customized Dog Harness and Leash | No Pull Design
Perfect for managing an energetic and scent-driven Treeing Walker on walks. A quality harness provides better control and prevents your hound from pulling when they catch an exciting trail.
View on AmazonNutrition & Diet
To fuel their high-energy lifestyle, the Treeing Walker Coonhound requires a diet rich in high-quality protein and fats. The right nutrition is essential for their performance in the field and their overall long-term health. For guidance, you can consult a general canine food guide.
Feeding Guidelines
- Puppies: A Walker puppy needs a formula designed for the growth of a medium-sized canine, fed in several small meals throughout the day.
- Adults: Active adult coonhounds typically do well on two meals per day. Choose a high-performance food that can support their energy needs.
- Working vs. Pet: A hard-working field companion will require more calories than a family pet. Adjust food portions based on activity level to prevent weight gain.
- Fresh Water: Always provide access to clean, fresh water, especially after exercise.
Finding a Puppy
Whether you choose to go through a breeder or a rescue organization, it’s important to find a Treeing Walker Coonhound from a reputable source. This is a popular variety, especially in hunting communities, so there are options available for prospective owners.
Adopting from a Rescue
- Give a Second Chance: Many wonderful coonhounds end up in rescues, often because previous owners underestimated their exercise needs.
- Find a Suitable Match: Rescue staff can provide insights into an animal’s history and personality, helping you find the perfect companion.
- Resources: Organizations like the AKC Rescue Network can connect you with specific rescues.
Choosing a Reputable Breeder
- Health Screenings: A responsible breeder will perform health checks on their animals to screen for genetic conditions like hip dysplasia.
- Knowledgeable Resource: Ethical breeders are passionate about their canines and can provide lifetime support and advice.
- Breed Clubs: The Treeing Walker Breeders & Fanciers Association is a good place to start your search.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Treeing Walker Coonhounds good family pets?
Yes, they can be excellent family companions. They are known for their friendly and gentle nature, and are generally wonderful with children and other canines. However, their high energy levels mean they need a lot of exercise and a securely fenced yard.
Do Treeing Walker Coonhounds bark a lot?
Yes, they are a very vocal type of canine. They are known for their distinctive, loud, ringing ‘bay,’ which they use to signal when they’ve cornered their prey. This sound can be a nuisance in a quiet neighborhood if not properly managed.
How much exercise does a Treeing Walker Coonhound need?
This is a high-energy working animal that requires a great deal of exercise. They need at least an hour (and often more) of vigorous activity daily, such as running, hiking, or extended playtime. They are generally not suited for apartment living.
Are these Walkers easy to train?
These coonhounds are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them trainable. However, they also have a strong independent streak and can be easily distracted by scents. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques.
What were these coonhounds developed to do?
The Treeing Walker Coonhound was developed primarily to hunt raccoons. Their job is to track a raccoon’s scent, force it up a tree, and then use their loud bark to alert the hunter to their location. They are also used to hunt other game.
Final Thoughts
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a remarkable animal that perfectly balances the drive of a hunter with the heart of a companion. For an active owner who can provide the necessary exercise and appreciate their unique voice, this hound is an intelligent, loyal, and joyful addition to the family. This variety is a true American original, a testament to the partnership between man and canine in the great outdoors.
