Treeing Walker Coonhound

Overview

Descended from Virginia foxhounds, the Treeing Walker was developed to run raccoon trails at speed and bay at the tree until the hunter arrived. It is tall, athletic and tricolour, with the hanging ears and loose lip of a scenthound. Among American hunters it is one of the most popular coonhounds.

For a British walker it is a hound in the fullest sense: good-natured, tolerant, hungry, and governed almost entirely by what it can smell.

Exercise and walking needs

Two hours a day is realistic for a fit adult, and a jog or canicross session suits them. A slow potter around the block does not touch the sides.

Because off-lead freedom is so limited, consider long-line walks across fields where the dog can trot and cast about safely.

On the walk

• Nose: Once the head drops the dog is working, and your voice becomes background noise. Call before the nose is engaged, not after.
• Recall: Assume it will fail with a fresh trail. Even well-trained Walkers can be miles away in minutes, so fenced areas are the only sensible place to let go.
• Voice: A rolling bawl that carries across a valley. The dog is not distressed, it is reporting. Neighbours may feel otherwise.
• Pulling: Powerful and persistent when on a scent. A harness with a front clip and a short, strong lead save your arms.
• Appetite: Coonhounds scavenge. Keep an eye out for discarded food, carcasses and anything a fox has left.

Tips for professional walkers

1. Walk at a brisk pace from the start; these hounds relax only after they have covered ground.
2. Use scent games on a long line as a substitute for the hunt they would otherwise choose.
3. Check ears after wet walks and look for ticks in the loose skin of the neck.

What to ask the owner

• Has the dog ever got away on a trail, and what did it take to get it back?
• Does the dog bay on walks, and would the owner like you to avoid built-up areas because of it?
• Any sensitivities with food or scavenging that you should know about?

Related breeds