How to Train Your Coonhound Dog

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By Janet Ford
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Train Coonhound Dog

Coonhounds are wonderfully intelligent dogs that are generally quite eager to please. However, coonhounds do have a reputation of being difficult to train. They really aren't, they just require a different approach in how you train them.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Coonhound
Clicker
Show Bench or Large Dog Grooming Table

Step 1

Redbone Coonhound Tracking

Get their nose up. Coonhounds are scenthounds. It is in their DNA to keep that nose to the ground trying to find something interesting to track. This is a very powerful instinct for them, some more than others. There is a saying with coonhounds 'When the nose is open the ears are shut'. This is quite true. Remember this and you will go far in your dog training. Get that nose up before giving commands.
Step 2

English Redtick and Redbone Coonhound Puppies

Allow your coonhound to run off any excess energy before beginning any dog training efforts. Like a young child, if your dog is too hyper, they will not be paying as much attention to you and your desires as you'd like - maybe not at all.
Step 3

American Black and Tan Coonhound

Set your dog up for success. You always want to set up your dog in such a way that you are nearly assured that they will do as asked so you can give them the appropriate praise. This often means taking small steps in any training. Coonhounds are a breed of dog which is very eager to please. They will love dog training if they know it pleases you. If you get upset with them, they will lose all possible interest whatsoever in your efforts.
Step 4

Redbone Coonhound on Dog Show Bench

Establish your alpha status in a friendly way. Work in a confined space. A dog show bench (which you can make yourself) or a large grooming table work well. I've even used a picnic table in a pinch. Show dogs are very in tune with their handlers. Whether you intend to show your coonhound dog or not, you do want this level of attentiveness. Teach your dog that you can move their legs around, hold their head, look into their mouth at their teeth, etc all at will. An elevated platform such as the show bench/grooming table is ideal for this and this simple training creates a fabulous foundation for all other types of training.
Step 5

Proper Dog Collar Placement

Begin leash training, preferably when your dog is young. Place the collar just under the jawline and up on the neck. In this position, you have control. If you allow the leash to drop down, you lose control. Dog head halter type collars would be a good choice for a coonhound as well. Be sure to visit the link in the resources section below this article to learn more.

Comments

Mindee94 said

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on 12/4/2008 Thanks for the great article. With a lab/hound mix this is a great addition for our training references. ~Mindee

Gardengates said

on 12/1/2008 Thanks for the tips on training Coonhounds. I haven't worked with one yet, but I'm sure I will soon and that advice about "nose up" will be useful for all scent breeds!