The Plott Hound, also known as the Plott, is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that originated in the United States. This breed is well-known for its exceptional hunting skills, especially in tracking and treeing wild game, making it a favorite among hunters and outdoors enthusiasts.
The Plott Hound is named after its original breeder, Johannes Plott, who brought five Hanoverian Schweisshunds to the United States in the late 18th century. The dogs were later bred with other breeds, including the Cur, and eventually developed into the Plott Hound we know today.
The Plott Hound is a muscular and agile breed, with a short and smooth coat that can come in a variety of colors, including brindle, black, and brown. They have a broad chest, strong legs, and a tapered tail. The ears of the Plott Hound are medium-sized and can be either floppy or erect.
Plott Hounds are intelligent and highly trainable, but they can also be stubborn and independent at times. Early socialization and training are important for this breed, as they can be aloof with strangers and other dogs if not properly socialized.
As a hunting dog, the Plott Hound has a strong prey drive and an excellent sense of smell. They are skilled at tracking and treeing game, especially wild boar and raccoons. Despite their hunting instincts, Plott Hounds can also make excellent family pets, as they are loyal, affectionate, and protective of their owners.
Plott Hounds require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going on long walks, hikes, and runs with their owners, as well as playing games like fetch and tug-of-war. As with all breeds, it is important to provide proper nutrition, regular grooming, and veterinary care to ensure their health and well-being.
The Plott Hound is a fascinating and versatile breed with a rich history and a strong hunting instinct. Whether as a hunting companion or a loyal family pet, the Plott Hound is a breed that is sure to capture the hearts of dog lovers everywhere.
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History and Origin of the Plott Hound Dogs

The Plott Hound has a unique and fascinating history that dates back to the late 1700s when German immigrant Johannes Plott brought five Hanoverian Schweisshunds to the United States. Plott, along with his family, settled in North Carolina, where they began breeding the dogs with other breeds, including the Cur.
The Plott Hound’s breeding was focused on creating a versatile hunting dog that could track and tree wild game, especially wild boar and raccoons. The breed was named after the Plott family and quickly gained popularity among hunters in the southeastern United States.
The Plott Hound was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1946 and later by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2006. Today, the Plott Hound remains a favorite among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, but it has also become a beloved family pet for its loyal and affectionate nature.
Despite being a relatively new breed, the Plott Hound has already made a significant impact on American culture. The breed has been featured in numerous books, movies, and television shows, including “Where the Red Fern Grows” and “Old Yeller,” both of which feature Plott Hounds as hunting dogs. The breed is also the official state dog of North Carolina, where it is celebrated for its hunting prowess and loyalty.
Plott Hound Dogs Health Issues and Lifespan

Like all breeds of dogs, the Plott Hound is susceptible to certain health issues. However, with proper care and regular check-ups with a veterinarian, many of these conditions can be managed or prevented.
One of the most common health issues in Plott Hounds is hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia, a similar condition affecting the elbow joint, is also seen in some Plott Hounds. Other health concerns that have been reported in this breed include ear infections, bloat, and eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.
The average lifespan of a Plott Hound is between 12 and 14 years, but with proper care, some dogs may live longer. To promote a healthy and long life, it is important to feed a high-quality diet, provide regular exercise and mental stimulation, and keep up with routine veterinary check-ups.
It is also essential to maintain good dental hygiene by brushing your Plott Hound’s teeth regularly and providing appropriate chew toys to prevent dental issues. As with all breeds, it is essential to keep up with recommended vaccination schedules and flea and tick prevention to prevent the spread of diseases.
By staying proactive with your Plott Hound’s health and wellness, you can help them lead a happy and healthy life for many years to come. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care can help catch potential health issues early, allowing for prompt and effective treatment.
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Plott Hound Dog Breed Complete Grooming and Care Guide
Grooming and care are essential for the health and well-being of your Plott Hound. Here is a complete guide to help you keep your Plott Hound clean, healthy, and happy:
Brushing: The short and smooth coat of a Plott Hound is relatively easy to maintain, but regular brushing is still essential to remove dirt, loose hair, and distribute natural oils. Use a slicker brush or a rubber curry brush to remove any dead hair and promote healthy skin.
Bathing: Plott Hounds do not require frequent baths unless they get particularly dirty or smelly. Use a mild dog shampoo and avoid getting water in their ears. After bathing, make sure to thoroughly dry your Plott Hound to prevent skin irritation.
Ear Cleaning: Plott Hounds are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears that can trap moisture and debris. Regular cleaning of the ears can help prevent infections. Use a dog-specific ear cleaning solution and cotton balls to gently wipe the inside of the ear flap.
Nail Trimming: Plott Hounds are active dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, which can help keep their nails short. However, it is still essential to keep an eye on their nails and trim them regularly to prevent overgrowth and potential injury. Use dog-specific nail clippers and avoid cutting into the quick (the pink part of the nail).
Dental Care: Plott Hounds are also susceptible to dental issues, so regular dental care is essential. Brush your Plott Hound’s teeth regularly with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and provide appropriate chew toys to promote healthy teeth and gums.
Exercise: Plott Hounds are active dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going on long walks, runs, and hikes with their owners, as well as playing games like fetch and tug-of-war.
Nutrition: Proper nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of your Plott Hound. Feed a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs, and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and related health issues.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch potential health issues early and keep your Plott Hound healthy. Follow recommended vaccination schedules, and keep up with flea and tick prevention to prevent the spread of diseases.
By following these grooming and care tips, you can help your Plott Hound lead a healthy and happy life for many years to come.
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