If you’re a fan of Bloodhounds, then you’re likely drawn to their incredible tracking abilities, affectionate nature, and, of course, their droopy ears. These scent hounds have earned a special place in the hearts of pet parents and dog lovers worldwide.
But did you know many other hound dog breeds share similar characteristics to the Bloodhound? Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or a first-time pet parent, you’ll be happy to know that there are several breeds with similar traits—keen noses, friendly dispositions, and strong hunting instincts.
In this blog, we’ll introduce you to some of the best Bloodhound-like dog breeds, each unique in its way, but all excellent at tracking and bonding with their human families.
Bloodhound-like Dog Breeds
1. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are probably the first breed that comes to mind when thinking about Bloodhound-like dogs. While they may not be as large as Bloodhounds, they are exceptional scent hounds. These dogs were originally bred for hunting small game like rabbits and hares, thanks to their sharp sense of smell and long, droopy ears.
Despite their short legs, they are highly skilled at tracking scents and have an innate ability to pick up on trails left by small animals. Basset Hounds have a distinctive look, with their wrinkled skin, long ears, and soulful eyes. Their calm demeanor makes them great companions for families, though they do require regular exercise to keep their energy levels in check.
Basset Hounds are affectionate, loyal, and known for their easy-going nature, making them a great addition to any household. Their history dates back to France, where they were originally bred by monks to hunt in the thick forests.
According to AKC, this breed typically lives between 10 and 13 years, and they weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. Their fur is short and can come in various colors, including tri-color (black, tan, and white) and bi-color (lemon, white, and tan). They have a sweet, gentle temperament, though they can be quite stubborn, so early training is essential.
Despite their laid-back nature, Basset Hounds are very determined when it comes to following a scent. Their strong tracking instincts often mean that they can get easily distracted by smells, so a secure, fenced yard is ideal for them. While they are known to be excellent companions for families and individuals alike, they do require patience and consistency when it comes to training due to their independent streak.
2. Black and Tan Coonhound
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a hunting dog breed with a rich history of being excellent in hunting, especially known for their ability to track raccoons. They were originally bred in the United States by combining various hound breeds, including the Bloodhound, which contributed to their extraordinary scenting abilities. This breed has an excellent sense of smell, making them great at tracking animals even in the dark.
This breed is a medium to large dog breed, standing around 24 to 27 inches tall and weighing between 65 and 110 pounds. Their short, sleek, black and tan coat is easy to maintain, and they are known for their expressive eyes and velvety ears.
Black and Tan Coonhounds have an independent and determined nature, which makes them fantastic working dogs, but they can be a little stubborn when it comes to training. Like most scent hounds, they require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They enjoy long walks and outdoor activities that let them use their keen noses. With proper training and socialization, they make great family dogs, as they are generally good with children and other pets.
Black and Tan Coonhounds are known for their strong drive to work, which can make them a bit challenging for first-time dog owners. Their hunting instincts are deeply ingrained, and they tend to follow their nose, sometimes to the detriment of their focus on training. However, with an experienced handler, they can be taught to focus and behave well in a home environment.
It’s essential to provide them with consistent training, firm leadership, and lots of mental stimulation. A Coonhound that’s well-trained is a joy to be around, offering loyalty and affection to its family, as well as a strong bond with their human companions.
3. Bluetick Coonhound
The Bluetick Coonhound is another excellent Bloodhound-like breed that shares many similarities in scent-tracking abilities. Known for their striking blue-gray coat with black and tan markings, these hounds were originally bred in the southern United States to hunt raccoons and other small game.
They are highly skilled trackers, thanks to their strong sense of smell, which makes them great candidates for hunting or search-and-rescue work. These are medium to large dogs, typically weighing between 45 and 80 pounds. They have a moderate coat that requires little grooming, and their distinct blue color gives them an unforgettable appearance.
Blueticks are known for their affectionate nature, especially with their families, and they are generally friendly with children and other animals. Their independent streak and hunting instincts can make them a challenge to train, so it’s important to begin training early and maintain consistency.
These dogs are energetic and require plenty of exercise, so a fenced-in yard or access to outdoor space is a must. Blueticks are vocal and will often “talk” while on the hunt, which can be a fun characteristic for pet parents who enjoy the sounds of a busy hound dog.
With their strong sense of independence, Bluetick Coonhounds need an owner who is both patient and confident. They thrive in homes where they can get plenty of mental and physical stimulation. While their hunting drive can sometimes make them a stubborn dog breed, they are loyal companions once they’ve learned to respect their owner’s commands.
A Bluetick can be an excellent family pet, especially for active families that enjoy spending time outdoors and participating in activities like hiking or running.
4. Coonhound
The Coonhound is a highly skilled scent hound that was originally bred for hunting raccoons. Known for their intelligence, endurance, and strong scenting abilities, Coonhounds are some of the most dedicated and determined tracking dogs around.
Coonhounds are not just about hunting, though. These dogs are affectionate and loyal, making them great companions for active families. They are generally friendly with children and other animals, though their high prey drive can sometimes lead to chasing small animals if not properly trained.
Their distinctive howls can be heard from miles away, a trait that makes them excellent for alerting hunters during a pursuit, but it also means they can be vocal at home.
One of the main characteristics of a Coonhound is their energy. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from becoming bored. This is a famous hiking dog breed that excels in activities such as running and agility. If you’re considering bringing a Coonhound into your home, be prepared for a dog that requires a lot of space to roam and explore.
Their sleek, muscular build requires proper care, including regular grooming to keep their coat shiny and clean. Like many hounds, they are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, so regular ear cleaning is a must. Coonhounds are also known for being somewhat independent, so training should be consistent and positive. Early socialization will help them develop into well-rounded companions.
If you lead an active lifestyle and have the time to dedicate to exercise, training, and mental stimulation, a Coonhound can be an incredibly rewarding addition to your family.
5. Saint Hubert Jura Hound
The Saint Hubert Jura Hound, also known as the Jura Hound or Jura Dog, is a less common but incredibly interesting breed with a rich history rooted in Europe. Originally bred in the Jura Mountains of Switzerland and France, this breed was used primarily for hunting deer and other large animals, thanks to its strong tracking ability and relentless determination. Its name honors St. Hubert, the patron saint of hunters, which is fitting considering this dog’s exceptional hunting skills.
This breed is a bit of a rarity outside of its native region, but it has slowly gained recognition due to its impressive traits. The Saint Hubert Jura Hound has a deep, melodious bark, which makes it easy for hunters to hear it over long distances when it’s on the trail. Despite its hunting background, this breed is typically calm and reserved around the home, making it a suitable choice for someone who wants a more laid-back hound that is still quite active.
The Jura Hound is an intelligent and independent dog, which can sometimes make training a challenge. They are not as eager to please as some other breeds, so consistency and patience are key. However, once they’ve bonded with their owner, they are incredibly loyal and devoted. Their nose is their most prized feature, and they are able to track scents with remarkable precision.
One of the key traits of the Saint Hubert Jura Hound is its versatility. While it excels in tracking and hunting, it also does well in canine sports like obedience and tracking trials, making it a dog that can thrive in many different environments. They are known to be gentle with children, and when socialized correctly, they can get along well with other dogs.
Like most scent hounds, the Saint Hubert Jura Hound requires regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They thrive in environments where they have room to roam and explore. Their grooming needs are relatively low, but regular brushing will help maintain their coat and keep it in top condition.
6. Otterhound
The Otterhound is a unique and lesser-known breed in the hound group, but it certainly shares many traits with the Bloodhound. Originally bred to hunt otters, these dogs have a thick, waterproof coat that helps them thrive in wet environments. Their keen sense of smell, combined with their love for water, makes them excellent swimmers and trackers.
Otterhounds are large dogs, standing between 24 and 27 inches tall and weighing between 80 and 115 pounds, as mentioned by the AKC. They have a distinctive shaggy coat that comes in various colors, often with a rough texture. Their ears are long and floppy, and their eyes are bright and expressive. Otterhounds are known for their friendly disposition, making them great family companions. They are also good with children and other dogs, though they do require a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation.
While their tracking abilities are impressive, Otterhounds are more laid-back compared to some other hound breeds. However, their love for water and nature makes them perfect for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. Their gentle, affectionate nature is one of the breed’s most endearing qualities.
Due to their water-loving nature, Otterhounds thrive in environments where they can frequently go swimming or engage in activities like hiking near rivers or lakes. They are also incredibly intelligent and can be independent, which sometimes makes training a challenge. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training can help them become well-mannered companions.
These dogs are happiest in homes with plenty of space and regular opportunities for outdoor play. They make great companions for those who lead an active lifestyle and want a dog that can keep up with them both in and out of the water.
7. American English Coonhound
The American English Coonhound is a versatile and hardworking breed with a keen nose, much like the Bloodhound. Known for their endurance and ability to track scents over long distances, these dogs were originally bred to hunt raccoons, but they are also used for hunting larger game like bears.
The American English Coonhound is highly energetic, making them great working dogs and perfect for owners who love outdoor adventures. These dogs are medium to large-sized, standing around 25 to 26 inches tall and weighing between 45 and 65 pounds.
Their short, smooth coat is typically red, white, and tan, and they have a muscular build that reflects their athletic nature. American English Coonhounds are affectionate, friendly, and loyal companions, making them great family dogs. However, they do need a lot of exercise to stay happy, and they can be quite vocal, especially when they pick up a scent.
As per WebMD, American English Coonhounds are intelligent but can be independent at times, so consistent training and early socialization are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Their natural hunting instincts make them excellent at tracking scents, and they often work best in rural or suburban settings where they have plenty of room to roam.
Their energetic nature means they require more than just a daily walk. They thrive in environments where they can run and explore, which makes them a great fit for families with active lifestyles. These dogs are also highly social, and while they bond closely with their families, they may be wary of strangers. With proper training and socialization, they are friendly and loving companions.
Conclusion
Hound dog breeds are known for their love of tracking, strong family bonds, and a deep affection for outdoor activities. Whether you’re searching for a loyal hunting dog or a family-friendly pet, these breeds offer a variety of options to fit your lifestyle. Some of the tallest dog breeds, like the Bloodhound, showcase both impressive size and excellent tracking abilities. With their keen noses, they are excellent hunting dogs, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Each breed has its own unique traits, but they all share the same remarkable qualities—affectionate natures and the ability to bond deeply with their humans. If you’re looking for energetic dogs that love both work and play, these breeds are ideal. Many are also recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Let us know in the comments below which breed you’d choose!
