The Plott Hound is a scent hound that originated in the United States in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina.  Often categorized as a coonhound this breed is most often used for hunting larger game, such as bear and boars.  Of the six recognized coonhounds, only the Plott Hound does not have the English Foxhound in its ancestry.
   
    Plott Hounds stand between 20-25 inches at the withers and weigh between 40-60 pounds, with females generally being smaller then the males.  They have a short, smooth, dense coat that is normally brindle.  Other colors on the Plott Hound can be slate and more rarely, buckskin, most dogs have black saddles. 
   
    The history of the Plott Hound begins in 1750, when two young brothers emigrated from Germany to America.  Like many emigrants they brought with them their dogs, five Hanoverian Hounds.  One of the brothers died on the way, but the other, Georg Plott, settled in North Carolina.  He continued to selectively breed his dogs, as did his decedents for the next seven generations.  These dogs were used by the Plotts for hunting bear, and after 1930s, boar.  At one point dogs known as Belvins were crossed with the Plott Hound, which is what resulted in the black saddle markings. 
   
    The Plott Hound is not only a hunter, and although rarely kept simply as a pet makes a good companion.  They are intelligent, loyal, and good with children.  On the hunt they are a determined and courageous hunter.  It will take on bears and boars without fear, and can tree any other prey as well.  Plott Hounds have a high-pitched voice on the hunt, contrary to the deep howl common with coonhounds.
   
    Plott Hounds are a hardy breed, be careful when feeding them, as they can eat large quantities of food quickly.  This can lead to gastric torsion and twisting of the stomach.  Plott Hounds generally live between 12-14 years.