You didn’t land on the American english coonhound by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. The speed hound, athletic, vocal, and nose-first, and America's fastest coonhound, they’re a natural fit for active experienced owners and hunters who want an athletic, driven scent hound and can manage their vocal nature who want a fast, driven, and happily social scent hound for active owners who hunt or can provide serious daily exercise. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a American english coonhound?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a American english coonhound? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 2 out of 5 | Intelligent but scent-first. Their priorities lie in the environment, not with the handler |
| Obedience | 2 out of 5 | Reliable in calm environments. Outdoor recall is essentially zero on a trail |
| Focus | 1 out of 5 | Scent overrides everything when outdoors |
| Stubbornness | 4 out of 5 | Independent and nose-driven |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 4 out of 5 | Warm and pack-oriented with their family |
| Good with children | 4 out of 5 | Gentle and good with children |
| Good with strangers | 5 out of 5 | Extremely friendly. No guarding instinct whatsoever |
| Good with other dogs | 5 out of 5 | Excellent with other dogs. Pack hounds by nature |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 1 out of 5 | Not suited to apartment living. Their baying will disturb neighbors |
| Cold weather | 3 out of 5 | Their coat handles cool weather reasonably well |
| Hot weather | 3 out of 5 | Tolerates moderate heat |
| Routine flexibility | 2 out of 5 | Needs consistent vigorous daily activity |
| First time owner | 2 out of 5 | Better for owners familiar with hound temperament |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 5 out of 5 | High energy and exceptional speed. Known as one of the fastest coonhounds |
| Endurance | 5 out of 5 | Outstanding endurance for extended field work |
| Exercise needs | 5 out of 5 | Needs at least 60 to 90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise |
| Mental stimulation | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent in their working context |
| Grooming needs | 2 out of 5 | Short, hard, protective coat that requires minimal grooming |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 | Playful and enthusiastic |
| Affection | 4 out of 5 | Affectionate with their pack and family |
| Loyalty | 3 out of 5 | Loyal to their group |
| Independence | 4 out of 5 | Independent and nose-driven |
| Alertness | 3 out of 5 | Alert to scents and sounds |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 5 out of 5 | Very vocal. Their voice carries at significant distance and is used continuously while working |
| Digging tendency | 2 out of 5 | Low digging tendency |
| Chewing tendency | 2 out of 5 | Light chewing tendency |
| Prey drive | 5 out of 5 | Extreme scent-driven prey drive |
| Guarding instincts | 1 out of 5 | Too friendly to guard |
What are common health issues of a American english coonhound?
Like all breeds, American english coonhounds are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Hip Dysplasia
The hip joint develops abnormally, causing pain and arthritis over time. American English Coonhounds are an active breed, so stiffness after exercise or a changed gait are worth catching.
Read more about Hip DysplasiaHypothyroidism
The thyroid gland does not produce enough hormone, slowing the metabolism. In American English Coonhounds, signs include weight gain, low energy, and a dull coat. Daily medication helps.
Read more about HypothyroidismEpilepsy
A neurological condition causing recurring seizures, seen in American English Coonhounds with some frequency. It often has a genetic component and is managed with daily medication.
Read more about EpilepsyHearing Loss
American English Coonhounds can develop hereditary hearing loss, sometimes present from birth. A vet can screen for it early. Knowing sooner helps you adjust training and daily care.
Read more about Hearing LossTorn Cranial Cruciate Ligament
The CCL stabilizes the knee, and active breeds like the American English Coonhound are at real risk of tearing it. A sudden rear-leg limp after activity is the most common first sign.
Read more about Torn Cranial Cruciate LigamentWhat are the recommended health tests for American english coonhounds?
Your American english coonhound can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
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OFA hip evaluation -
Ear examination and cleaning at every wellness visit
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CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
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Annual weight monitoring
Do American english coonhounds need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of American english coonhound owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real American english coonhound owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Redtick Coonhound specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
American english coonhounds are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Redtick Coonhounds age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other American english coonhound owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $55-$60 |
| 2 years old | $50-$55 |
| 3 years old | $45-$50 |
| 4 years old | $50-$55 |
| 5 years old | $50-$55 |
| 6 years old | $80-$85 |
| 7 years old | $65-$70 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Redtick Coonhound?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your American english coonhound and your budget.
History of the American english coonhound
The American English Coonhound, also called the Redtick Coonhound, descends from English Foxhounds brought to Virginia and the Carolinas in the 17th and 18th century by English settlers. George Washington was among the early breeders of English Foxhound-type dogs in America. Over generations, hunters selectively bred for dogs capable of hunting raccoon and other game both by day and by night, developing the distinctly American coonhound type. The American English Coonhound was bred for speed above all other coonhound breeds, making it one of the fastest. The United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1905, making it one of the earliest recognized American coonhound breeds. The AKC recognized the American English Coonhound in 2011. The breed is closely related to the English Foxhound and the Plott Hound in terms of working style.
Caring for a American english coonhound
Training
Training a American english coonhound takes patience, but it’s worth the effort. They are scent-driven, independent, and easily distracted by their powerful nose, which means owners need to work hard to hold their attention and compete with the environment around them. Short, high-reward sessions with especially enticing treats and a patient, persistent approach tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
American english coonhounds have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry comb or bristle brush is all the coat needs, and the occasional bath keeps them looking their best. Regular ear cleaning is important as the long, floppy ears are prone to moisture and infection.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Redtick Coonhound looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
American english coonhounds have high energy levels and need 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Scent tracking, running, and fetch are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. American english coonhounds are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become vocal, destructive, and prone to persistent howling and escape attempts. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your American english coonhound will actually love.
Nutrition
American english coonhounds are medium to large dogs with high energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 1,100 to 1,500 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $50 to $75 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a American english coonhound here.
American english coonhound costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a American english coonhound?
Before your American english coonhound even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $500-$1,500 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$600 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $200-$400 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $150-$300 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a American english coonhound each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most American english coonhound owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $600-$1,000 | Based on the recommended portion for your American english coonhound |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $100-$300 | Every Every 8 to 12 weeks, Short hard coat needs minimal professional grooming. |
| Toys and Supplies | $200-$400 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular American english coonhound names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for American english coonhound we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
American english coonhound puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
American english coonhound puppies are fast, friendly, and purpose-built for the coonhound work they have done for over 300 years. That a warm, pack-oriented personality and scenting capability that makes them outstanding in the field is part of what makes them space, vigorous daily exercise, secure fencing, weekly ear cleaning, and comfort with loud baying, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a American english coonhound brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are American english coonhound’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, American english coonhounds are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
2. Massachusetts
Massachusetts is a high-risk state for Lyme disease, and ticks are active from early spring through late fall across wooded and coastal areas. Cold winters also mean road salt exposure on walks, which can cause paw irritation and is harmful if ingested during grooming.
3. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
4. Illinois
Chicago winters bring salted sidewalks that can irritate and crack paw pads, so wiping down your dog's paws after walks is a good habit from November through March. In warmer months, ticks become active in wooded and grassy areas, and the occasional coyote sighting in suburban neighborhoods is worth keeping in mind.
5. North Carolina
North Carolina's warm, humid climate supports year-round flea and tick activity, and the state sees consistent Lyme disease cases, particularly in the Piedmont and mountain regions. Copperhead snakes are also common in wooded and suburban areas, so watching where your dog sniffs around rocks and brush is a good habit.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a American english coonhound? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Both are fast, athletic treeing hounds. Treeing Walker Coonhounds are more widely known. American English Coonhounds are slightly more versatile and better for multi-game hunting.
Read more
Black and Tan Coonhound
Both are athletic, vocal scent hounds. Black and Tan Coonhounds are more laid-back. American English Coonhounds are faster, more energetic, and better suited to competitive treeing.
Read more
Coonhound
Coonhound is a broader term covering several breeds. American English Coonhounds are among the most versatile and widely used. Both share the same vocal, scent-driven, athletic nature.
Read more
Blue Tick Coonhound
Both are athletic, vocal treeing hounds. Blue Tick Coonhounds are more methodical and cold-nosed. American English Coonhounds are faster and better suited to competitive treeing work.
Read more
American Foxhound
Both are fast, athletic scent hounds. American Foxhounds are better suited to open-field hunting. American English Coonhounds are better suited to treeing and competitive hunt events.
Read moreIs a American english coonhound right for you?
American english coonhounds reward the right owner with a speed and tracking capability that makes them genuinely competitive in field trials and a pack-oriented warmth that makes them excellent companions in active settings. They just need space, secure fencing, vigorous exercise, weekly ear cleaning, and acceptance of loud hound vocals in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a American english coonhound. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.