Moderate, year-round shedders, the Treeing Walker Coonhound needs weekly brushing to remove loose and dead hair. Baths are required as needed, and this depends upon the individual dog's activity level and propensity for flopping in the mud.
Check the ears on a weekly basis for signs of infection, irritation, or wax build up. This is of particular importance because the heavy ears of the Walker Coonhound don't allow for proper air circulation, making the breed prone to painful infections.
Cleanse regularly with a veterinarian-approved cleanser and cotton ball. Brush the teeth at least once per week to prevent tartar buildup and fight gum disease. Additionally, nails should be trimmed once per month if the dog does not wear the toenails down naturally.
Like most coonhounds, the Treeing Walker is a high-energy breed who delights in stretching his legs in a good, long run. He is an excellent candidate for someone who wants a running or hiking companion.
While most coonhounds can quite happily become couch potatoes, most will still appreciate long daily walks at a minimum. Romps in the backyard, chasing a ball, or playing with human or canine friends will help to keep him mentally and physically healthy.
The Treeing Walker has a very high prey drive and should be on a leash for walks and hikes, as he may be unable to resist the instinct to pursue an interesting scent.
Feeding depends on if you’re using your Treeing Walker Coonhound to hunt. He will need higher protein and fat intake in order to aid endurance, energy and muscle mass.
If your dog is going to be more of a family pet, then he won’t need as much fat or protein. Whether you’re going with a high-quality dry kibble or a homemade diet, be sure to monitor quantity to match exercise levels.
Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). A hound who isn’t working can be prone to becomingoverweight, so owners should monitor the dog’s calorie consumption and weight level.
Treatscan be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about whichhuman foodsare safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
The Treeing Walker is overall quite a healthy breed, andresponsible breedersscreen their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye anomalies. Be sure to always check the dog’s ears when he comes in from outside, as ticks love to burrow beneath the coonhound’s floppy ears. Removing excess ear wax and debris and checking the ears at least weekly will help you to avoid common ear infections.
This is an intelligent breed, so you’ll find the Treeing Walker Coonhounds easy to train. You’ll need to provide consistent training throughout their lifetime. But you’ll find the process to be as rewarding as he does, as he wants to please you. By using praise and treats as rewards, you’ll be pleased with the outcome. These dogs do not respond to harsh treatment – in fact, it will cause trust issues and may cause your dog to become shy.
You’ll find that your Treeing Walker Coonhound will master the basics and will be read to tackle advanced obedience or agility training. This can help use up some of the excess energy these dogs are famous for.
