Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is the supreme scent hound, renowned worldwide for the unrivalled sensitivity of its nose. Its tracking ability is so reliable that the evidence of a Bloodhound's trailing has historically been admissible in courts. This extraordinary scenting drive shapes the whole dog: once on a trail it can become single-minded and almost impossible to call off.

Despite their imposing size and serious working heritage, Bloodhounds are typically good-natured, placid and friendly, often very patient with children and rarely aggressive. They are usually sociable with people, including strangers, and other dogs. Their temperament is fundamentally soft and amiable rather than guarding, though they can be stubborn and slow to comply.

Bloodhounds are intelligent but independent and famously stubborn, and their scenting instinct can readily override instruction. Reward-based, positive methods work far better than harsh corrections, which tend to make them shut down. Short, varied sessions that make use of their love of scent are most effective, and a sense of humour helps.

Recall is the breed's single greatest challenge. Once a Bloodhound locks onto a trail it may simply not respond, so it should never be let off the lead in unsecured areas. Off-lead freedom should be limited to securely enclosed spaces, and a securely fenced garden is essential, as a Bloodhound will happily follow a scent over a fence or through a gap.

The Bloodhound typically lives for around ten to twelve years. As a large, deep-chested breed with distinctive conformation it is prone to several notable health problems, so regular veterinary check-ups, weight management and attentive care all help support a good quality of life across those years.

Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) is a particular, life-threatening risk in this deep-chested breed and a leading welfare concern. Hip and elbow dysplasia are recognised, and the loose skin, heavy ears and somewhat loose eyelids predispose the breed to skin-fold and ear infections and to entropion and ectropion. Buy from breeders who health-test their dogs.

The short coat itself is fairly low-maintenance, needing only regular brushing. However, the characteristic loose skin, deep facial wrinkles and long, heavy ears need particular attention: wrinkles should be kept clean and dry, and the ears checked and cleaned regularly. Bloodhounds also drool considerably, so owners should be prepared for this.

Yes. Bloodhounds bay as a matter of course, producing a loud, deep voice that is part of their scent-hound character. For this reason they suit a home in surroundings where the noise will not trouble close neighbours. Owners drawn to the breed should be comfortable with both the baying and the drool that come with a large hound.

Good with children. As a general guide, Bloodhounds tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.

As a healthy adult, a typical Bloodhound needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.

Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is easy-care — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.

Better with some experience. Bloodhounds are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.

Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Needs plenty of space. A Bloodhound really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.