Bloodhound

Bloodhound 2

Bloodhound black and tan 'blanket'

Bloodhound liver and tan 'blanket'

Bloodhound black and tan

Bloodhound liver and tan

Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is a large scent hound originally bred for hunting deer, wild boar, and, since the Middle Ages, for tracking people. Believed to be descended from hounds once kept at the Abbey of Saint-Hubert in Belgium, it is known to French speakers as the Chien de Saint-Hubert.

Characteristics

The Bloodhound possesses an outstanding sense of smell and is a kind trail follower. This breed is famed for its ability to discern human scent over great distances, even days later. Its physical strength is matched by its keen sense of smell and stamina. Bloodhounds have an affectionate and even-tempered nature with those they know. They can be shy around strangers but are not aggressive by nature.

Appearance

Bloodhounds weigh from 80 to 110 pounds (36 to 50 kg) and stand 23 to 27 inches (58 to 69 cm) at the withers. They have long, droopy ears and wrinkled skin, especially on the face. The coat can be black and tan, liver and tan, or red. Their long ears and the folds in their skin are thought to help capture and retain scents from the ground.

History

The Bloodhound's ancestors were created in medieval France to trail deer and boar. By the time of the Crusades, these hounds were refined and bred by monks at the Saint-Hubert Monastery in Belgium, the breed's namesake. The Bloodhound was brought to England by the Normans, where it was further developed and refined.

Use in Tracking

Bloodhounds have been used by law enforcement to track escaped prisoners, missing persons, and lost children. Their ability to follow a scent trail for days over great distances makes them invaluable in search and rescue operations. Despite advancements in technology, the Bloodhound's nose is still one of the most effective tools in tracking.

Care

Bloodhounds require regular exercise to maintain their health and manage their weight. Due to their size, they need space to move around and should have access to a large, fenced yard. Their coat needs minimal grooming, but their ears require regular inspection and cleaning to prevent infections. Bloodhounds are prone to bloat, and care should be taken with their diet and feeding schedule.

In Popular Culture

The Bloodhound's unique appearance and tracking abilities have made it a popular subject in literature, film, and television. They are often portrayed as gentle giants with a keen sense of smell.

See Also

• Scent hound
• Hunting dog
• Search and rescue dog