Buckskin Plott Hound: A Comprehensive Guide

The Buckskin Plott Hound is a rare and unique breed, with a rich history dating back to the 18th century in the United States.

They were originally bred for hunting large game such as bear, boar, and deer, and their strong prey drive and endurance make them well-suited for this task.

The Buckskin Plott Hound's distinctive coat is a key characteristic, with a mix of black and red ticking over a buckskin base color.

This coat pattern is the result of a genetic combination that is specific to the breed.

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The Plott Hound has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1700s when a German named Johannes Plott arrived in North Carolina with five Hanover hounds.

These dogs were bred for their incredible nose and were used by the Plott family to hunt big game like wild boar and bears. They eventually became the foundation of the Plott Hound breed.

In fact, the Plott Hound is the only Coonhound breed that doesn't have any English Foxhound ancestry, setting it apart from other breeds in its category.

Johannes Plott's son, Henry, played a significant role in the development of the Plott Hound, settling in western North Carolina and continuing to breed the dogs for generations.

The Plott Hound became famous for its loud, musical bay that can be heard over a great distance, making it an invaluable companion for hunters.

In 1989, the Plott Hound was officially recognized as the state dog of North Carolina, a testament to its enduring popularity and importance in the region.

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Buckskin Plott Hounds are smart and energetic, which means they need lots of daily activity to be happy and well-adjusted.

Their grooming requirements are basic, but they do need regular ear cleaning to prevent infections. Check their ears weekly to see if they need cleaning, and dry them well after baths.

Brush your Buckskin Plott Hound's short coat weekly with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt to remove loose fur and distribute skin oils. This will also help reduce shedding, although it can increase seasonally in the spring and fall.

Bathe your dog every 6 weeks or as needed, and use a gentle dog shampoo to avoid stripping their natural skin oils.

Plott Hounds are smart and energetic dogs that need lots of daily activity to be happy and well-adjusted.

Their grooming requirements are basic, but they do need regular attention to stay clean and healthy. Brush your Plott Hound weekly with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt to remove loose fur and distribute skin oils.

Shedding can increase seasonally, especially in the spring and fall, so be prepared to brush more frequently during these times. You'll want to check your dog's ears at least weekly to see if they need cleaning, as wax and debris can build up, especially in pendant dog ears.

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A monthly bath should suffice, unless your dog gets dirty, but be sure to dry their ears well whenever they get wet. Regular nail trimming is also essential, aiming to check your dog's nails roughly once a month.

Maintaining good dental hygiene is crucial for your Plott Hound's overall long-term health, including at-home teeth brushing and professional dental cleanings.

Plott Hounds need at least an hour of exercise every day to stay happy and healthy. This can be broken up into walks or trips outside as you want, but try to keep to an hour or more each day.

A bored Plott Hound without an outlet for their energy might become destructive or engage in other undesirable behaviors, like chewing or digging. Furniture, shoes, and chasms in your yard are all fair game if you miss a walk.

They're avid runners and easily take to nearly any athletic pursuit they put their snout to. They're not afraid of the water and love exploring nature.

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Long walks, running, cycling, and play sessions are great ways to burn some of this breed's energy. Puzzle toys can help to provide mental stimulation as well.

Keep your Plott Hound on a leash or in a securely fenced area when outdoors, as their high prey drive can cause them to take off running after perceived prey.

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Training a buckskin Plott Hound requires patience and consistency.

Early socialization is key to helping your Plott Hound feel more secure and to teach them the boundaries of proper interaction with kids. This involves exposing your dog to different people, other dogs, and various locations from a young age.

Use positive reinforcement training methods, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. This approach works best for Plott Hounds, who are intelligent and can easily run rings around unprepared dog owners.

Firm, patient training with clear boundaries and a no-nonsense attitude is essential for this breed. Avoid scolding your Plott Hound, as they act tough but are sensitive to harsh words and punishments.

Plott Hounds can be stubborn and independent, making training a challenge. However, with consistent and positive reinforcement training, you can help your dog develop good habits and behaviors.

Start training your Plott Hound early, ideally when they're a puppy, to prevent bad habits from forming. Keep training sessions fun and varied to hold your dog's attention.

As a Plott Hound owner, it's essential to remember that punishment is counter-productive when training. Instead, focus on rewarding good behavior and ignoring bad behavior.

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Buckskin Plott Hounds are a joy to be around, especially if you're an active person. They make great running companions, as they have the energy to keep up with you.

If you're looking for a low-maintenance pet, the Buckskin Plott Hound is a good choice, as they require minimal grooming.

However, don't expect them to be couch potatoes - they need rigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They're not suited for apartment living, as they need space to run around.

Here are some key pros and cons to consider:

The Buckskin Plott Hound is a wonderful breed, and for good reason. They make excellent running companions, always happy to join you on a jog or hike.

One of the best things about Buckskin Plott Hounds is their low-maintenance grooming needs. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.

If you're looking for a loyal and loving companion, the Buckskin Plott Hound is a great choice. They are generally very loyal and loving with their family.

Here are some key benefits of owning a Buckskin Plott Hound:

If you're considering bringing a Plott Hound into your life, it's essential to be aware of the potential downsides. They require rigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Plott Hounds are not suited for apartment living due to their high energy levels and need for space to run around. This means you'll need to have a spacious yard or be prepared to take them on long walks several times a day.

Their high prey drive is another consideration. This means they'll likely try to chase small animals, such as cats or squirrels, if they get the chance. Be prepared to keep a close eye on them around wildlife.