The Bloodhound is a scenthound from the European country of Belgium.  Many hounds today have at least some Bloodhound in their ancestry, from the numerous French and English hounds to the American Coonhounds halfway around the world from its native homeland.



Bloodhounds are large, heavy dogs that weigh between 80-110 pounds and stand between 23-27 inches.  The most common coloring of their short, dense coat is black and tan, however liver and tan, or a solid red is also acceptable.  In the Middle Ages it was not uncommon to find solid colors in the breed, including a white variety known as the Talbot Hound, which had died out by the 1600s.  Like most hounds, the Bloodhound has a long muzzle, drooping ears, and long tail that sits high.


It is thought that the Bloodhound is approximately one thousand years old, dating back to 1000 A.D.  For centuries they were bred and kept by monks at the St. Hubert Monastery in Belgium, and known as the St. Hubert Hound.  They were used to hunt large game, especially wild boar, throughout the Ardennes, and quickly became well known for their endurance.  Later theses dogs were brought to England in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, and eventually given their modern name, for being pure of blood, or purebred.  Eventually the Bloodhound made its way to the United States with emigrants, and were favored in the Southern States, where they were often used to hunt runaway slaves.
   
Today, Bloodhounds are kept as both companion as well as tracker, although the latter is still more common.  They have been used to hunt animals, criminals, as well as lost and missing persons worldwide.


The Bloodhound is a gentle and good-natured breed that makes an excellent family pet.  The generally do very well with children, however they are a larger breed, and their sheer bulk requires supervision around small children.  Often, because of its high tracking ability and a need for independence Bloodhounds can be difficult to train.  This breed can live without a yard, provided they are adequately exercised, because they are relatively inactive indoors.  They do best with a yard and long daily walks, Bloodhounds have incredible stamina and can walk for hours without complaint.
   

Bloodhounds have several health problems to be aware of, including eye, skin, and ear ailments, which should be inspected frequently for signs of any problems.  This breed is also heavily prone to bloating.  You should feed them two or three small meals per day and avoid exercise after meals.  Like most large dogs, they are prone to hip dysplasia.  The average lifespan of a Bloodhound is 10-12 years.