Everything you need to know about Tennessee Tree Dogs

Table of contents:

1. Introduction: What is a Tennessee Tree Dog?

2. The history of Tennessee tree dogs

3. Physical characteristics of Tennessee Tree Dog

4. Tree Dog: What is "establishing" behavior?

5. Tennessee Tree Dog's Personality

6. How to train a Tennessee tree dog to hunt

7. The role of Tennessee tree dogs in raccoon hunting

8. Health problems of Tennessee tree dogs

9. The difference between Tennessee tree dogs and other tree dogs

10. How to care for a Tennessee tree dog

11. Lifespan of Tennessee Tree Dogs

12. Where to adopt a Tennessee tree dog?

13. Conclusion: Is the Tennessee Tree Dog the right breed for you?

1. Introduction: What is a Tennessee Tree Dog?

The Tennessee Treeing Dog is a breed of hound specifically designed for tracking and setting up small game, especially raccoons. Known for their strong instincts, exceptional sense of smell, and unparalleled stamina, they are an important member of the hound group . As a tree dog , their primary task is to chase prey until it climbs the tree, alerting the hunter to the prey's location by barking or remaining near the tree. Let's delve deeper into this unique breed!

2. The History of Tennessee Tree Dogs

The Tennessee Tree Dog is a breed developed in Tennessee, USA, primarily for tracking and setting up small game such as raccoons. The ability to track raccoons and other prey is especially important in the dense forests of the American South. This breed was developed by crossbreeding coonhounds with other native hunting dogs, particularly the Treeing Walker Coonhound. Over time, the Tennessee Tree Dog became a relied-upon hunting dog for many hunters, possessing exceptional tracking and setting abilities.

3. Physical characteristics of the Tennessee Tree Dog

The Tennessee Tree Dog is a medium to large breed with a strong and athletic body, adapted for long runs through forests and challenging terrain. Typical physical characteristics include:

• Height : 18 to 27 inches

• Weight : 40 to 65 pounds

• Hair : Short and dense, common colors include black and brown , blue spots , or red spots.

• Ears : Long and upright, a typical feature of hunting dogs.

• Tail : Long and slightly curved

These physical characteristics make them well-suited for moving quickly, maintaining agility and stamina when hunting in rugged terrain.

4. Tree Dog: What is “establishment” behavior?

" Standing up " refers to a dog chasing its prey, usually small animals like raccoons, until it climbs a tree, then using barking or remaining near the tree to signal the hunter's location. This is a hallmark behavior of tree dogs, especially Tennessee tree dogs. They possess a powerful sense of smell and the ability to relentlessly track prey; once they spot it, they chase it up a tree and remain alert until the hunter arrives.

5. The personality of the Tennessee Tree Dog

Tennessee Tree Dogs are known for their loyal , intelligent , and active personalities. Although primarily hunting dogs, they can also make excellent family pets, especially for active families.

• Social and friendly : They are very friendly to family members and can get along peacefully with other pets, but they need socialization training from a young age.

• Independence : As hunting dogs, they have a certain degree of independence and may not be very obedient to their owner's commands when tracking prey.

• Alertness : They are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs, always paying attention to their surroundings.

Because they require a lot of mental stimulation and physical activity , they are suitable for families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.

6. How to train a Tennessee tree dog to hunt

Training a Tennessee Tree Dog requires patience and consistency. While they are instinctively intelligent, they also possess a degree of independence, making positive reinforcement the most effective method. Key elements for successful training include:

• Early socialization : Expose them to different environments, people, and other animals to prevent aggressive or fearful behaviors.

• Tracking and olfactory training : Teach them how to track scents by using olfactory cues or by taking them into real hunting environments.

• Establishment reinforcement : When they successfully establish prey, they reinforce this behavior through rewards or praise.

Because these dogs are born with specific hunting instincts, they perform exceptionally well in training.

7. The role of the Tennessee tree dog in raccoon hunting

Raccoon hunting is one of the most common uses for Tennessee tree dogs. These dogs are naturally adept at tracking and arranging raccoons, and their instincts and stamina make them invaluable assistants to hunters. Once a raccoon is tracked, they use their arranging instinct to drive the prey up a tree and signal their location to the hunter with their calls. Their stamina and tracking ability make them indispensable partners in raccoon hunting.

8. Health problems of Tennessee tree dogs

Like many active hunting dogs, Tennessee Tree Dogs may also face some health problems:

• Hip dysplasia : This is a problem that occurs in most large dog breeds and can cause joint pain.

• Ear infections : Because their ears droop, it is very important to clean them regularly to prevent infection.

• Obesity : As a high-energy dog, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to avoiding joint stress.

Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise can help them stay healthy.

9. The difference between Tennessee tree dogs and other tree dogs

Although the Tennessee Tree Dog shares many similarities with other tree dog breeds (such as the Tree Walker and Blue-spotted Coonhound ), there are also some significant differences between them:

Tennessee tree dogs are particularly known for their ability to set things up, while other breeds may be better at tracking or retrieving prey.

10. How to care for a Tennessee tree dog

Here are some things to keep in mind when caring for a Tennessee Tree Dog:

• Exercise : These dogs need plenty of physical activity. Regular walks, runs, or hunting activities can help them stay healthy and happy.

• Grooming : Their short fur doesn't require much grooming, but it should be brushed regularly to remove loose hair and dirt.

• Ear care : Because the ears droop, they need to be cleaned regularly to avoid ear infections.

• Diet : Provide a balanced, high-quality dog ​​food to support their energy needs and activity levels.

11. Lifespan of a Tennessee Tree Dog

Tennessee Tree Dogs typically live between 12 and 15 years , making them one of the longer-lived breeds of hunting dogs. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary checkups can help them enjoy a longer, healthier life.

12. Where can I adopt a Tennessee tree dog?

If you decide to adopt a Tennessee Tree Dog, you can check out local rescue organizations or Raccoon Dog Rescue . Adoption fees typically range from $50 to $300 , depending on the dog's age and health. Many adopted dogs have already been vaccinated.

The seedlings have undergone sterilization surgery, making the process very convenient.

13. Conclusion: Is the Tennessee Tree Dog the right breed for you?

The Tennessee Tree Dog is an excellent breed, suitable for any hunter or family looking for a high-energy , loyal , and intelligent dog. With their strong establishing instinct, excellent stamina, and friendly temperament, they are ideal companions for families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.

However, if you are looking for a low-maintenance pet or live in a small apartment, this breed may not be the best fit for you, as they require a lot of exercise and space.