Treeing Walker Coonhound Breed Guide

Also known as: TWCs, Tree Walkers, Walker Hounds

🐶 Summary

The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a sleek, energetic, and intelligent hunting breed known for its incredible nose and treeing instincts. Originally bred in the U.S. for tracking raccoons, this hound has an athletic build and a driven, outdoorsy temperament.

They thrive with active families or individuals who can keep up with their need for movement and mental stimulation. Despite their work-focused past, they can be affectionate and loyal companions with the right training and socialization.

📏 Size Specs

• Size Category: Large
• Group: Hound Group
• Weight Range: 50–70 lbs (22–32 kgs)
• Height Range: 20–27 inches (51–69 cm) at shoulder

✂️ Coat Type & Grooming Needs

Short and glossy coat with moderate shedding. Their coat is low-maintenance, but regular brushing helps reduce loose hair and keeps their skin healthy.

Things That Can Make Grooming Easier:

• Slicker brush or rubber curry brush
• Grooming glove
• Pet vacuum tool
• Deshedding shampoo

🏃 Exercise Requirements

High – needs at least 60–90 minutes of active play or structured activity daily. Without enough stimulation, they may become vocal or destructive.

Exercise Gear That Suits This Breed’s Needs:

• Long-range leash or tracking line
• Outdoor toys like frisbees or tug ropes
• Dog treadmill for rainy days
• Fetch launcher

🏡 Energy Level / Indoor Behavior

Very energetic and alert. Best suited for homes with outdoor access. Can become vocal or restless if under-exercised.

Smart Additions for Daily Life:

• Interactive puzzle toys
• Durable chew toys
• Calming chews or donut bed

💕 Temperament

Friendly, alert, and confident. Treeing Walker Coonhounds are known for being affectionate with family but can be independent-minded and strong-willed outdoors.

🎓 Trainability & Intelligence

Moderately easy to train but responds best to positive reinforcement. Strong prey drive requires consistent, patient training.

Things That Make Training Easier:

• High-value training treats
• Clicker for positive reinforcement
• Smart treat-dispensing toys
• Online training courses for hound breeds

🩺 Common Health Issues

Generally healthy, but may be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, or thyroid issues.

Smart Additions for Health & Prevention:

• Joint supplement
• Breed-appropriate dog food
• Compare Dog Insurance Plans

⏳ Lifespan

12–13 years on average

🦴 Feeding & Diet Tips

Watch for overeating tendencies. They do well on a balanced, protein-rich diet but may have sensitive stomachs.

What Other Owners Find Useful:

• Slow-feeder bowls
• Sensitive-stomach or grain-free kibble
• Portion-control automatic feeder

📣 Barking Level & Vocal Traits

Very vocal – known for their signature bay and “treeing” bark. Not ideal for apartment living.

Things That Can Help With Bark Control:

• Anti-bark collar (gentle vibration or citronella)
• White noise machine
• Positive-reinforcement training tools

👧 Good With Kids / Other Pets?

Generally good with children and other dogs, especially when socialized early. Prey drive means small pets may not be safe without supervision.

🌡️ Climate Suitability

Tolerates both warm and cool weather but should not be left outside in extreme heat or cold for long periods.

Smart Additions for Comfort:

• Cooling vest for hot days
• Waterproof raincoat
• Heated dog bed for cold nights
• Paw balm for rough terrain

🎯 Breed Quirks / Fun Facts

• Loves to follow scent trails for hours
• Natural “treeing” instinct—will bark up trees
• Escape artists if not securely fenced

Fun Gear That Matches Their Personality:

• Digging sandbox for nose work
• Squirrel-shaped plush toys
• Treeing Walker Coonhound-themed mugs, decals, and apparel

🔁 Compare With:

• Beagle: Smaller, easier in apartments, more family-focused but still vocal
• Bluetick Coonhound: Similar nose skills, generally more mellow indoors
• American Foxhound: Comparable energy and build, more independent and less barky