Dog lovers will agree the Treeing Walker Coonhound is an exceptional dog, ideal as a family and hunting dog. Treeing Walker Coonhound breeders know this dog is extremely fast, agile, and tireless in the pursuit of game. The Walker descended from the English Foxhound, and was first recognized as a separate breed in 1945. This very affectionate dog may resemble a large beagle, and its face could melt the heart of anyone.

The ideal Walker comes with a distinct description. Treeing Walker Coonhound breeders know the dog should stand twenty to twenty-eight inches at the withers (the highest point on the back, between the shoulder blades). They are a short-hair dog, with a very smooth coat that can be bi-color or tri-color. Their shoulder region is very powerful, though their legs are lean and not well muscled. Perhaps it is their ears, which appear almost too large for their head, that give their face such and irresistible look.

The temperament of the Walker hound is what makes this dog so attractive to potential owners. Any Treeing Walker Coonhound breeder would say this breed is great with children and gets along well with other dogs. They are considered “cuddlers,” as they love to lay in bed, by the fireplace, or in front of the television. Treeing Walker Coonhound breeders would also advise that this dog requires EXTENSIVE exercise and outdoor play. Though they are considered easy to train, the training must be consistent, as they are extremely intelligent dogs who will find loopholes in the training program. For example, they are notorious for moving furniture to climb over gates or using household items to manipulate kennel mechanisms! It is important to note that this breed is made for long, hard hunting expeditions. Simple walks in the neighborhood would not be sufficient for this type of dog.

As their name would indicate, raccoon hunting is for what they are best known, and their hunting technique is very distinct. They chase a raccoon until it is forced up a tree to hide from the dog. Each Walker hound has a distinctive bay that allows his owner to find the dog from great distances. Once the game can be found in the tree the dog is rewarded. This hunting technique is known as “tracking and treeing.” This is all done after dark, since raccoons are naturally nocturnal. Coon hunting with the Walker hound is a timeless tradition, taken very seriously and enjoyed by many.