Plott Hound at a Glance
North Carolina's state dog, the Plott Hound is a courageous, intelligent breed descended from German boarhounds.
Plott Hound Profile
Plott Hound vs Other Coonhounds
| Trait | Plott Hound | Treeing Walker | Bluetick |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 40-60 lbs | 50-70 lbs | 45-80 lbs |
| Coat | Brindle | Tri-color | Blue ticked |
| Temperament | Courageous, intense | Friendly, outgoing | Affectionate, curious |
| Barking | Moderate | Loud, frequent | Moderate |
| Prey Drive | Very high | High | High |
Ownership Journey
Do's and Don'ts
| Provide daily vigorous exercise — they need to run | |
| Use a secure, 6-foot fence — they are escape artists | |
| Socialize extensively from puppyhood | |
| Use positive reinforcement training methods | |
| Give them a job or purpose to prevent boredom | |
| Trust them off-leash — prey drive is extremely strong | |
| Leave them alone for long periods — they get destructive | |
| Expect them to be guard dogs — they bark but aren't aggressive | |
| Keep with small pets — hunting instincts are deeply ingrained |
💡 Plott Hounds are courageous, determined dogs with an incredible work ethic. They excel at hunting, scent work, and canine sports, but need an owner who can match their drive and energy.
⚠️ Their intense prey drive means Plott Hounds cannot be trusted off-leash and may not be safe around cats or small dogs. A securely fenced yard is an absolute requirement.
Plott Hound: North Carolina's State Dog
The Plott Hound's story begins in 1750 when Johannes Plott emigrated from Hanover, Germany to North Carolina, bringing five Hanoverian Schweisshunds with him. Through careful breeding maintained within the Plott family for generations, these boar-hunting dogs became one of America's most distinctive — and distinctly American — breeds.
| Trait | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | 40–60 lbs, 20–25 inches |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years |
| Coat | Short, dense; brindle in various shades; also black |
| Energy Level | Very High |
| Trainability | Intelligent but independent |
| Good with Children | Yes (with older children) |
| Good with Other Dogs | Generally yes; can be dominant |
Temperament
Plotts are brave, energetic, and extremely focused working dogs. They are loyal and affectionate at home but never "off" — their energy level and alertness rarely drop significantly even indoors. They form deep bonds with family but can be reserved with strangers.
Exercise and Work
Plotts need a job. Without adequate physical and mental exercise, they express their working instinct through destructive behavior and excessive vocalization. Plan for 60–90 minutes of vigorous activity daily. Tracking sports, hunting, and scent work are ideal outlets for their powerful nose and drive.
Health
One of the healthier coonhound breeds. Hip dysplasia and bloat are the main concerns. Their short coat requires minimal grooming — weekly brushing and regular ear checks cover their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Plott Hounds good family dogs?
Yes, for active, experienced families. Plotts are loyal, courageous, and affectionate with their people. Their high prey drive, need for vigorous daily exercise, and vocal nature require owners who can commit to these needs.
Are Plott Hounds rare?
Outside the Appalachian Mountain region where bear and boar hunting is common, yes — they are relatively rare as companion animals. They are most commonly found with hunters in the Southeast.
What makes the Plott Hound unique among coonhounds?
The Plott is the only coonhound not descended from English foxhound stock. Johannes Plott brought Hanover hounds from Germany to North Carolina in the 1750s, and the breed has remained largely in the Plott family line for generations.