Bluetick Coonhound

Feeding a Bluetick Coonhound properly is crucial for maintaining their athletic build and boundless energy. These are substantial dogs - males can reach 36 kg - so they need a diet that supports their active lifestyle without contributing to weight gain, which can stress their joints and increase bloat risk.

Most adult Blueticks do best with two meals a day rather than one large meal, which helps prevent bloat - a serious concern for this deep-chested breed. If your dog tends to wolf down their food (and many eager Blueticks do), invest in a slow-feeder bowl or puzzle feeder. You can even scatter their kibble across the floor to make them work for each bite, which provides mental stimulation too.

Choose a high-quality dog food that meets Australian pet food standards, with the first ingredient being a named meat source. Active dogs like Blueticks often benefit from foods with higher protein content to support their muscle mass and energy needs. Your vet can help you determine the right amount based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level - this is particularly important in Australia where activity levels might vary dramatically between summer and winter.

Puppies need three meals a day due to their higher metabolism and growth requirements. As they mature, you can transition to the adult feeding schedule around 12 months of age.

Fresh water should always be available, especially during Australia's hot summers. Many Bluetick owners find their dogs drink more after exercise or tracking activities, so keep those water bowls topped up. Treats are great for training these intelligent hounds, but keep them to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake to prevent weight gain.

One of the brilliant things about Bluetick Coonhounds is their relatively low-maintenance grooming needs - perfect for busy Australian families who'd rather spend time exercising their dog than fussing over their coat. That gorgeous, short, glossy coat that gives them their distinctive appearance is surprisingly easy to care for.

A weekly brush with a medium-bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt is usually sufficient to keep them looking their best and control moderate shedding. During spring in Australia when many dogs have their big shed, you might want to brush them twice a week to keep loose hair under control. Trust me, your vacuum cleaner will thank you!

Baths are only needed when they've gotten into something particularly messy - and with their love of following interesting scents, this might happen more often than you'd expect. Their coat naturally repels dirt quite well, so over-bathing can actually strip the natural oils that keep their skin healthy.

Those beautiful, long ears require special attention and are probably the most important part of their grooming routine. Check them weekly for signs of infection, especially if you live in humid areas like coastal Queensland or the Top End. Clean them as recommended by your vet, and always dry them thoroughly after swimming or baths.

Don't forget the basics - nail trims every few weeks (more frequently if they're not wearing them down naturally on concrete), and regular teeth brushing to prevent dental issues. Many Australian vets now recommend daily teeth brushing, but even a few times a week makes a significant difference to their long-term dental health.

Here's where Bluetick Coonhounds really shine - and where they'll challenge you to step up your game. These dogs were bred to think independently while working, which makes them incredibly intelligent but also means they need an owner who understands how to channel that intelligence positively.

Exercise-wise, think of your Bluetick as a canine athlete. They need substantial daily exercise - we're talking long walks, hiking, running, or vigorous play sessions. A quick trip around the block won't cut it for these energetic hounds. They're perfect companions for exploring Australia's national parks, beach walks along the coast, or bushwalking adventures in places like the Blue Mountains or Grampians.

The key thing to remember is that they're scent hounds with an incredibly strong prey drive. This means they need to be on-leash or in a securely fenced area at all times. Once they catch an interesting scent, their selective hearing kicks in, and they'll follow their nose regardless of your calls. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer tracking and nose work competitions that are absolutely perfect for channelling their natural abilities.

Training requires patience and consistency, but these intelligent dogs respond beautifully to positive reinforcement methods. Start socialisation early - puppy school is highly recommended. Their baying and howling can become problematic in suburban Australian neighbourhoods, so teaching a "quiet" command early is essential for maintaining good relationships with your neighbours.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, scent games, and training sessions help tire their minds. A tired Bluetick is a well-behaved Bluetick - remember that when planning your daily routine.