The Smokey Bluetick Coonhound A Tennessee Treasure

The Smokey Bluetick Coonhound is a true Tennessee treasure, with a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. They were bred to hunt small game, particularly raccoons, in the Appalachian region.

These dogs are known for their distinctive bluetick coat, which is a result of the breed's unique genetic makeup. Their coat is a mottled mix of black and blue spots, giving them a smoky appearance.

The Smokey Bluetick Coonhound's keen sense of smell and exceptional tracking ability make them a valuable asset for hunters. They can follow a scent trail for miles, making them a popular choice for hunting small game.

In addition to their hunting prowess, the Smokey Bluetick Coonhound is also a loyal and loving companion, making them a great family pet.

Curious to learn more? Check out: What Kind of Dog Is Smokey

Smokey, the beloved Tennessee mascot, is a bluetick coonhound with a rich history. He was selected in 1953, during a contest to choose a live mascot for the school.

Smokey has had some exciting adventures over the years, including a stint as a dognapped mascot in 1955. He was later involved in a confrontation with the Baylor Bear at the 1957 Sugar Bowl.

Smokey has been a part of the Vols' tradition for many years, and his official mascot duties are handled by members of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. They care for him on game days and for the rest of the weekend.

Smokey VIII holds the record for the winningest Smokey, with a record of 91-22 (.805), and two SEC titles and the 1998 national championship.

Smokey X, the current mascot, is a pampered pooch who lives with Charles and Cindy Hudson during the week. He's the first Smokey not descended from the original Smokey bloodline.

Smokey X was quite the big boy from the start, weighing 26 pounds at just two months old. His size is thanks to his daddy, Pokey Joe, who weighed 90 pounds.

Here are the top 10 fun facts about Smokey:

Tennessee has officially named the Bluetick Coonhound as its state dog, and it's a well-deserved honor. The Bluetick Coonhound has been synonymous with the University of Tennessee since 1953.

The Bluetick Coonhound was chosen as the state dog because it's native to Tennessee, making it a fitting representation of the state's heritage. This breed has been a beloved part of the University of Tennessee's tradition for over 60 years.

Thirteen other states have officially named a dog breed as their state symbol, with Maryland being the first to do so in 1964. The Bluetick Coonhound is now one of 14 official state dogs in the United States.

The University of Tennessee's beloved mascot, Smokey, is a Bluetick Coonhound who has been delighting fans since 1953. Smokey's popularity was instant, and he's been a part of the university's tradition ever since.

Smokey was first introduced to the public in 1953, and he's been a crowd favorite ever since. He's been part of the university's tradition for over half a century, and his legacy continues to inspire fans today.

Since 1994, the Hudson family has cared for the Smokeys, ensuring that the beloved mascot continues to thrive.

On a similar theme: Blue Pointer Dog Breed