The Plott Hound is a tenacious and courageous scent hound originally bred for big game hunting, particularly bear and wild boar. It’s the only coonhound breed not descended from foxhounds, setting it apart in both history and working style.
Its roots trace back to the mid-1700s when Johannes Georg Plott, a German immigrant, arrived in North Carolina with five Hanoverian Schweisshunds, a type of German hunting dog known for its scent-tracking abilities and strength. These dogs were bred over the next two centuries with local stock to adapt to the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. The result was a bold, cold-nosed hound capable of tracking and treeing game for miles.
The breed remained relatively obscure until it was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1946 and the American Kennel Club in 2006. It remains North Carolina's official state dog and is still highly valued as a hunting companion.
Though not a common household name, the Plott Hound enjoys a devoted following among hunters, especially in the southern United States. Their unmatched drive in the field, combined with their loyalty and versatility, makes them a prized working dog. As more people discover their balanced temperament and rugged charm, they're gradually finding their place as family companions as well.
The Plott Hound has a muscular, athletic frame built for endurance and agility. Their appearance is sturdy without being bulky, and their expressions exude intelligence and alertness.
• Height: 20–27 inches (51–69 cm)
• Weight: 40–75 pounds (18–34 kg)
• Coat: Short to medium length, dense and smooth
• Color: Brindle is the hallmark (black, brown, gray, or tan); some solid black individuals exist
• Eyes: Brown or hazel, with a calm, intelligent gaze
• Ears: Medium-length and hanging, slightly rounded
• Tail: Moderately long and carried with a slight curve
Bred for toughness and determination, Plott Hounds are also known for their loyal, intelligent, and affectionate personalities. They can be intense on the trail but easygoing and mellow at home.
• Courageous and Driven: Fearless in the field, known for confronting large prey
• Loyal and Affectionate: Devoted to their family and protective without being aggressive
• Independent Thinkers: Require consistent training and mental stimulation
• Vocal: Like many hounds, they have a deep bay or "chop" bark, especially when on a scent trail
• Social and Friendly: Usually good with children and other dogs when well-socialized
If you're an outdoorsy person or family looking for a companion with both stamina and heart, the Plott Hound might be the perfect fit. They thrive in homes where they can be part of an active routine, especially if they can use their nose.
• Ideal for Hunters: Exceptional at tracking big game
• Active Families: Great for hiking, camping, and rural lifestyles
• Protective Nature: Natural guardians of the home
• Minimal Grooming Needs: Easy-care coat and generally clean
• Unique Look: Distinct brindle pattern and athletic silhouette
Plott Hounds are generally healthy and hardy but need the right lifestyle to thrive.
• Exercise:
o High energy; requires long daily walks or time to run in a safe area
o Loves hikes, scent games, and trail running
• Training:
o Intelligent but can be stubborn—start early with positive reinforcement
o Crate training and recall training are particularly important
• Grooming:
o Weekly brushing to remove dead hair
o Occasional baths to keep coat fresh
o Regular ear cleaning to prevent infections (common in floppy-eared breeds)
• Living Environment:
o Adaptable to home or farm life but needs space to move
o Best suited to homes with secure fencing and minimal noise restrictions
Plott Hounds are generally robust and enjoy a long lifespan of 12–14 years. However, potential concerns include:
• Hip Dysplasia
• Bloat (Gastric Torsion)
• Ear Infections
• Skin Sensitivities (particularly in humid climates)
Routine vet visits, high-quality nutrition, and an active lifestyle contribute to a long, healthy life.
The Plott Hound shares some traits with other coonhounds, such as the Black and Tan Coonhound or the Treeing Walker Coonhound, but is typically more driven and physically tougher due to its big game origins. Compared to the Bloodhound, the Plott is less droopy and more agile.
If you want a rugged, loyal companion who’s as happy sniffing out trails as he is cuddling up after a long day outdoors, the Plott Hound delivers on all fronts. While not for the urban or sedentary lifestyle, this breed is an excellent match for active owners who value loyalty, stamina, and an all-American heritage.
United Pet Club can help you connect with ethical breeders, hunting dog trainers, and resources for scent work and agility competitions tailored to this courageous breed.