Bloodhound history can be traced back more than 1,000 years, one of the oldest hound breeds.  Contrary to what you see in the movies bloodhounds are energetic, lovable, dignified, good natured, goofy, tolerant, and affectionate. 

The name 'bloodhound' actually means 'blooded hound' or of noble or aristocratic blood.

Before you purchase a bloodhound, please understand that they were bred for a specific purpose - tracking and trailing.  With 300 million scent receptors their nose is more powerful than any other dog breed (for example, German Shepherds have 225 million scent receptors) which is why they are commonly used by law enforcement, search and rescue teams, hunters, or private individuals who enjoy the sport of man-trailing.

Bloodhounds are large.  They can stand over two feet high and weigh more than 100 pounds.  They require exercise, attention, and training.  A lot of consistent training! Bloodhounds are extremely intelligent and extremely stubborn.  If you are not consistent with your training they will walk all over you!  They slobber, eat things they shouldn't and some have a 'musty' odor.  On their behalf, though, I must admit that our lab smells a whole lot worse than our hounds!

So why in the world would you want a bloodhound?  If you are a hunter looking for a scent hound to find that deer that ran off, the bloodhound might be right for you.  Bloodhounds are also prized by police departments, search and rescue teams, and private owners who enjoy the sport of man trailing knowing their dog might save a life if needed.

Bloodhounds can make great family pets, but there is a lot to consider before getting one. Due to their large size they will quickly outgrow your average house and need a fenced yard in order to get plenty of exercise.  A fenced area is an absolute necessity.  A loose bloodhound is a dead bloodhound! 

For the right family, the bloodhound can make a wonderful companion.  With their large size they can tolerate rough-housing yet be gentle and tolerant of kids.  Bloodhounds are listed as one of the best dog breeds for families.  (In this photo I am getting kisses from our Red girls.  Layla on the left, then Gwennie - 8 mo, and Belle - 10 mo.  Excuse the silly look on my face, I am merely protecting myself from the tongue lashing.  Ha ha!

For more information about bloodhounds, we suggest you do your research.  Purchase books written about bloodhounds and check out our links page for bloodhound information found on the web.  Additionally we will be happy to put you in contact with other bloodhound owners who can tell you what it is like to live with a bloodhound. 

Take your time looking for a puppy.  Talk to and try to visit several breeders.  Go to a dog show, a field trial, a meet the breed event.  Learn about the dogs in the pedigree.  Ask for references and talk to owners of your breeder's puppies.  Contact the American Bloodhound Club for a referral.  Make sure the health clearances are done and that the parents passed those tests, and that your breeder offers a good breeder / buyer agreement or contract.  Don't settle for a 'cheap' pup and don't be afraid to ask questions!  It may take a year or two to find the right puppy but the wait and a little added cost for a quality puppy from a responsible breeder will be worth it in the end.