The Bluetick Coonhound, as with all coonhounds, originates from the southern United States.  This is a rare breed outside of the southern states, even today.  Bluetick Coonhounds were bred for the purpose of hunting raccoons and other wildlife. 
   
    Bluetick Coonhounds stand between 21 to 27 inches at the shoulder, and weigh anywhere between 45 to 80 pounds.  The males tend to be larger and heavier then the females.  The coloring of this breed is always “blue”, that is they have a black and white mottling of fur that gives the appearance of a navy blue color.  This mottling covers the body with black spots on the back, ears, and sides that can vary in size and shape.  In most cases black is most predominate on the head and ears.  They have tan dots above the eyes and on the cheeks, along with a red ticking on the feet and lower legs.  This red ticking also appears on the chest and below the tail.  Bluetick Coonhounds have brown eyes, long ears, and undocked tails.
   
    The origin of the Bluetick Coonhound coincides with that of the English Coonhound until 1946.  At that time they were recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) as their own breed.  The Bluetick Coonhound is still not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a bred, but they are listed in their Foundation Stock Service.
   
    Bluetick Coonhounds are intelligent dogs; they excel at hunting and also make good companions.  They are devoted to their families and do well living indoors.  This breed can be dog-aggressive and nervous of strangers, it is important to socialize them with people outside the family and other canines at a young age.  Because of their hunting abilities they cannot be trusted with non-canine pets.  On the hunt they are fearless and will continue despite weather and terrain.  Bluetick Coonhounds have a loud, baying voice that owners can recognize even at a large distance.