Bloodhound
The Good
- Calm and composed temperament
- Friendly with all people
- Excellent hunting and tracking abilities
- Great with children
The Real
- Large size requirements
- Need for assertive leadership
- Poor tolerance of heat and humidity
- Cannot live outdoors in winter
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Bloodhound is truly one of nature's most remarkable tracking machines, with a nose so powerful that their findings can be used as evidence in court. These gentle giants, weighing up to 50 kilograms, are instantly recognisable with their long, droopy ears, deeply wrinkled faces, and soulful eyes that seem to hold ancient wisdom.
Originally bred for their incredible endurance and scenting ability, Bloodhounds can follow a trail for hours without tiring. But don't let their serious working heritage fool you - at home, they're surprisingly docile and affectionate companions who form deep bonds with their families.
In Australian homes, these hounds adapt well to active families who can match their exercise needs and provide the mental stimulation they crave. Their short coat handles Australia's varied climate reasonably well, though they'll need a warm coat during cooler Melbourne or Canberra winters, and careful management during Brisbane's humid summers or Perth's scorching heat.
What makes Bloodhounds special isn't just their legendary nose - it's their gentle, patient nature combined with an almost stubborn determination when they're on a scent. They're pack animals who genuinely enjoy company, whether that's other dogs, children, or adults. However, their powerful tracking instincts mean they'll follow interesting smells wherever they lead, making secure fencing and reliable recall training absolutely essential for Australian owners.
History
The Bloodhound's story begins in medieval monasteries, where legend tells us they were first developed around 1000 AD by monks who combined their religious duties with a passion for breeding exceptional hunting dogs. These early hounds, known as the "Hounds of Saint Hubert" after a monk who later became the patron saint of hunters, were prized by European nobility for their unmatched ability to track large game like wild boar.
The monastery continued supplying these remarkable dogs to royal courts until the 18th century, maintaining bloodlines so pure that the breed's name likely comes from "blooded hound," referring to their aristocratic, carefully maintained breeding rather than any connection to blood tracking.
These Belgian-bred hounds played a crucial role in developing most smooth-coated hunting breeds across Central Europe and England. When William the Conqueror brought them to Britain in the 11th century, they quickly became favourites of the royal court. Originally appearing only in black, they later developed the liver and tan, and red colourations we see today.
The breed's reputation spread globally, reaching America in the 18th century where they were unfortunately used to track escaped slaves and prisoners. However, their true calling emerged in law enforcement, where their tracking abilities became legendary. In 1805, English police first officially used Bloodhounds, and there are claims that by 1616, British law required certain patrol posts to have a Bloodhound capable of following fresh trails.
Today's Bloodhounds maintain that same incredible scenting ability that made them legendary centuries ago, though they're now cherished more as family companions and search-and-rescue specialists than royal hunting partners.
Traits & Characteristics
Bloodhound characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Bloodhounds are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10-12 years, but like many large breeds, they're prone to specific health conditions that Australian owners should understand. The most serious concern is gastric dilatation and volvulus (bloat), a life-threatening emergency common in deep-chested breeds. This occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow. Owners must learn to recognise symptoms like a distended abdomen, retching without vomiting, and signs of pain, and seek immediate veterinary care. For those in rural NSW or QLD, this means having a plan for emergency transport to a 24-hour vet, as time is critical.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are hereditary conditions affecting joint alignment, causing pain and mobility issues. Reputable ANKC registered breeders screen breeding dogs with X-rays. Treatment varies from weight management to surgery in severe cases. Their distinctive droopy ears also create perfect conditions for infections, as moisture gets trapped. This is particularly relevant in Australia's humid coastal regions; regular cleaning with a vet-approved solution, especially after a swim at the beach, is vital.
Like many breeds with loose, droopy skin, Bloodhounds can be susceptible to ectropion (eyelids rolling outward) and entropion (eyelids rolling inward), which can irritate the cornea. Their facial folds also require daily cleaning to prevent dermatitis, particularly important in Australia's warmer climates. When bushwalking on the east coast, be vigilant about paralysis tick checks, especially in their dense facial folds and ears where ticks can hide.
Finally, Bloodhounds are notorious for eating inappropriate items, leading to costly emergency vet visits—something to consider when choosing pet insurance in Australia. Regular health screenings help catch potential issues early, so it's wise to find a vet experienced with large breeds.
Feeding a Bloodhound properly requires understanding their unique needs as a large, active breed prone to bloat. Australian owners should focus on high-quality nutrition while implementing feeding strategies that minimise health risks and support their substantial size and energy requirements.
Adult Bloodhounds typically consume 4-8 cups of dry food daily, depending on their weight, age, and activity level—always discuss specific amounts with your vet. Choose premium foods where meat is the first ingredient, avoiding economy brands that rely on fillers. The most critical feeding consideration is bloat prevention. Feed two to three smaller meals rather than one large one, avoid elevated food bowls, and restrict vigorous exercise for an hour before and after mealtimes. This is particularly important in Australia's climate where dogs may drink large amounts of water after exercise, increasing bloat risk.
Establish consistent feeding schedules, as Bloodhounds thrive on routine. Remove food bowls after meals rather than free-feeding, leaving only fresh water available. This routine also helps with weight management, crucial for preventing joint stress in large breeds. For dogs with joint issues, supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can be beneficial. Whether choosing commercial diets or home-prepared meals (with veterinary supervision), ensure nutrition matches your dog's life stage.
Bloodhound grooming is surprisingly manageable despite their size, though their unique features require specific attention that's particularly important in Australia's diverse climate. Their short, dense coat sheds moderately year-round with heavier shedding periods twice annually, making weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt essential for managing loose hair.
The breed's most distinctive features—those wonderful facial folds and droopy ears—need daily attention. Clean facial wrinkles with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe, ensuring you dry them thoroughly. This is especially crucial in humid coastal areas like Brisbane or Darwin, where moisture can quickly lead to skin irritation.
Their magnificent ears require regular cleaning with a veterinary-approved cleanser, particularly after swimming at the beach or in a backyard pool. The ear's shape traps moisture perfectly, creating ideal conditions for infections. Make ear cleaning routine after any water activities—something many Australian dog owners need to consider.
Bloodhounds are legendary droolers, so keep cloths handy for regular face wiping. Australian owners transporting their Bloodhounds should invest in durable car seat covers to protect vehicle interiors from both drool and hair. Bathing is only necessary every few months unless your hound has found something particularly aromatic on a bushwalk. Their nails need trimming every couple of weeks unless regular walks on hard surfaces wear them down naturally.
Training a Bloodhound requires understanding their unique combination of gentle nature and stubborn independence—they're brilliant dogs who simply prefer to think for themselves. Australian owners need patience, consistency, and a good sense of humour when working with these determined characters who were bred to make independent decisions while tracking.
Start obedience training early. Use positive reinforcement with high-value treats and praise, as harsh corrections will shut down these sensitive souls. The most crucial command for any Australian Bloodhound is a reliable "come," as their powerful nose can lead them into trouble during off-leash moments at the park or beach. Given their stubborn streak, many owners wisely keep them leashed outside of securely fenced areas.
Their exercise needs are substantial but manageable. These aren't hyperactive dogs, but they do need at least 60 minutes of daily activity. Long, leashed walks are perfect, but always in securely fenced areas. Many a Bloodhound has been known to dig under or even jump a 1.8-metre fence when a compelling scent calls.
Their vocal nature also requires management in suburban neighbourhoods. Bloodhounds have a deep, resonant bay that can travel. This behaviour runs deep and can't be trained out completely, so consider your neighbours. Excellent activities for them include tracking games, long bushwalks, and organised dog sports like nose work, with many Australian clubs offering events perfect for channelling their natural abilities.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Australian Bloodhound owner combines patience, consistency, and an active lifestyle with a good sense of humour about living with a gentle giant who thinks with their nose. These dogs thrive with owners who appreciate their unique blend of determination and docility, understanding that training requires persistence rather than force.
Ideal owners have experience with large breeds or are committed to learning about their needs. Bloodhounds aren't for first-time owners unless they're prepared for managing a 50 kg dog with a powerful scent drive. You'll need the strength for leash walking and the assertiveness to set boundaries kindly.
Active families work wonderfully, particularly those who enjoy bushwalking or have a large, securely fenced yard. However, these aren't jogging companions; they prefer steady, longer walks, making them suitable for those who enjoy leisurely outdoor exploration. Apartment living is not recommended due to their size and vocal nature.
Patient owners who don't mind drool, a bit of doggy odour, and the occasional baying will find Bloodhounds incredibly rewarding. They're perfect for families with older children, singles seeking a loyal companion, or active retirees. Most importantly, ideal owners accept that a Bloodhound follows its nose first and its owner second—it's not defiance, it's just who they are.
Interesting facts about the Bloodhound
Admissible in Court
A Bloodhound's nose is so reliable that in many jurisdictions, their tracking results can be presented as evidence in a court of law.
A Royal History
The breed was developed and perfected by monks in medieval Belgium at the Abbey of Saint-Hubert, and these 'blooded' (aristocratic) hounds were often gifted to French royalty.
Not Named for Blood
The term "Bloodhound" doesn't refer to tracking blood. It means "blooded hound," a term used to signify its pure, aristocratic breeding and meticulously kept bloodlines.
Functional Face Folds
Their famous droopy ears and facial wrinkles aren't just for show. They work together to trap scent particles from the ground and funnel them towards their powerful nose.
FAQ
Yes, Bloodhounds are generally excellent family dogs due to their patient and gentle nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are known to be very good with children. However, their large size, drool, and substantial exercise needs mean they are best suited to active families with enough space to accommodate them.