Plott Hound
Also known as: Plott Plotthund
Originating in the United States, the Plott Hound is a scent hound breed known for its distinctive brindle coat. The Plott Hound comes from United States. Individual Plott Hounds vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- United States
- Other names
- Plott Plotthund
About the Plott Hound
Originating in the United States, the Plott Hound is a scent hound breed known for its distinctive brindle coat. Developed for hunting, this breed excels in tracking and trailing.
Size
A Plott Hound should measure approximately 20 to 25 in (51 to 64 cm) at the withers for males, 20 to 23 in (51 to 58 cm) for females. Males should weigh 50 to 60 lb (23 to 27 kg) . Females should weigh 40 to 55 lb (18 to 25 kg) .
Overview
The Plott Hound , often referred to as the Plott , is a large scent hound , originally bred for hunting bears . In 1989, the North Carolina General Assembly designated the Plott Hound as the official State Dog. The Plott Hound was first registered with the United Kennel Club in 1946. Plott Hounds were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2006 and were exhibited at the Westminster Show in 2008. Chosen for their tracking and hunting abilities, two Plott Hound puppies have been trained as K9 deputies for the Guilford County Sheriff''s Department in North Carolina.
History
Of the seven breeds of United Kennel Club (UKC) registered coonhounds , the Plott Hound is the only one that does not trace its ancestry to the foxhound . It is the only breed originating in North Carolina and only one of four breeds originating in the United States. The Plott Balsams , a mountain range in North Carolina, are named for the Plott family, whose ancestor, (Johannes) George Plott (c. 1733–1815), immigrated to North Carolina in the mid 18th century from Germany, settling in Cabarrus County . The Plott Hound breed of hunting dog is also named for the Plott family. The ancestors of today''s Plott Hounds were used for boar hunting in Germany. Originally from Germany, in 1750 Johannes "George" Plott emigrated to the English colony of North Carolina. He brought a few wild boarhounds (five Hanover Hounds , used for bear and boar hunting) with him. These dogs had been bred for generations for their stamina and gameness. George and his wife Margaret with their family settled in the mountains of western North Carolina, Carrabus County. Though there is no evidence that George Plott ever went to western North Carolina, his son Henry settled Haywood County around 1801 to 1810 (as the census discloses) and was responsible for the Plott Hound''s later development. George Plott supposedly kept his strain entirely pure, making no outcrosses. In 1780, the Plott Hound pack passed into the hands of Henry Plott.
Appearance
The Plott Hound is generally athletic, muscular, and agile in appearance, with a medium build. Unlike some other hounds, the Plott Hound''s skin is not baggy. The Plott Hound is a very strongly built yet moderate hound, with a distinct brindle -colored coat. Its appearance suggests the capacity for speed, stamina and endurance. They may have an identification mark on it that is used to identify the dog when hunting. Such a mark is not penalized in conformation shows .
Coat and color
The Plott Hound''s fur should be fine to medium in texture, short or medium in length, and have a smooth and glossy appearance. According to the National Plott Hound Association, the dog''s fur should be brindled. Brindled is defined as "Finely streaked or striped effect or pattern of black or tan fur with fur of a lighter or darker background color. Brindle shades accepted are yellow brindle, red brindle, tan brindle, brown brindle, black brindle, grey brindle, and maltese (slate grey, blue brindle)." Black with brindle trim and solid black are other acceptable alternatives. The Association dictates that while some white on the chest and/or feet is permissible, white found anywhere else is a fault.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Plott Hound?
The Plott Hound is a large scent hound with a muscular build, short coat, and distinctive brindle or black coat pattern. Adult Plott Hounds typically weigh between 45-60 pounds and stand 20-27 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a strong prey drive and are known for their tracking ability, making them well-suited for hunting and tracking activities.
Is the Plott Hound a good family dog?
Plott Hounds are generally good with children, especially if socialized from an early age. However, their strong prey drive and hunting instinct may not make them suitable for families with small pets, such as rabbits or guinea pigs. They do require regular exercise and training to manage their energy levels and prevent destructive behavior.
What health problems do Plott Hounds have?
Plott Hounds are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. These include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential health issues early on, and responsible breeding practices can help minimize the risk of inherited health problems.
How much does a Plott Hound puppy cost?
The cost of a Plott Hound puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a Plott Hound puppy can cost between $800-$1,200. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider the long-term costs of owning a dog, including food, veterinary care, and training, before making a purchase.
Where do Plott Hounds come from?
The Plott Hound comes from United States. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Plott Hound, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.