The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a quintessential American hunting breed, renowned for its exceptional speed, tracking skill, and treeing instinct. The breed's lineage can be traced back to the English Foxhound, brought to the American colonies in the 18th century. Through selective breeding with Virginia Hounds and Tennessee Lead—a legendary fast and intelligent dog of unknown ancestry—the Walker Hound was developed.
By the early 19th century, the Walker family of Kentucky refined these dogs, creating what became known as the Walker Foxhound. Later, hunters who prioritized treeing raccoons over pursuing foxes selected for dogs with strong treeing instincts and a distinctive baying voice. This resulted in the establishment of the Treeing Walker Coonhound as a distinct type in the mid-20th century. The breed gained official recognition from the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1945 and is one of the most popular coonhound breeds in the United States.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is immensely popular among American hunters, especially in coonhound circles, thanks to its:
• Blazing speed
• Outstanding scent-trailing ability
• Strong treeing instinct
• Stamina and versatility
The breed is a consistent competitor and winner in UKC coonhound night hunts and other performance events. It is gradually gaining recognition as a companion dog due to its affable temperament and athleticism.
This sleek, muscular breed is built for both speed and endurance.
• Height: 20–27 inches (51–69 cm)
• Weight: 45–70 pounds (20–32 kg)
• Build: Long-legged, athletic, and balanced
• Coat: Short, glossy, and dense
• Color: Tri-color (white with black and tan markings); occasionally bi-color (white and black, or white and tan)
• Head: Broad skull with a moderately long muzzle
• Ears: Long, drooping, and thin
• Eyes: Large, dark brown, and expressive
• Tail: Moderately long, carried high in a saber-like curve
This breed is famed for its combination of intelligence, drive, and friendliness.
• Energetic: High stamina, thrives with plenty of physical activity
• Vocal: Possesses a loud, ringing chop and bawl when trailing and treeing game
• Affectionate: Gentle and good-natured with family members and children
• Sociable: Typically good with other dogs, especially in pack settings
• Focused: Remarkably determined and single-minded when on a scent trail
Treeing Walker Coonhounds are best suited to active owners who appreciate their working heritage and are ready to meet their exercise needs.
This breed excels for:
• Hunters seeking a fast, reliable coonhound
• Active families who enjoy hiking, running, or outdoor adventures
• Owners interested in scent work, tracking trials, or canine sports
It may not be ideal for:
• Apartment living (due to vocal nature and exercise needs)
• Owners unable to provide sufficient physical and mental stimulation
The breed is relatively easy to care for but thrives with active engagement.
• Exercise: Very high; daily vigorous walks, runs, or scent-based games are essential
• Training: Positive reinforcement; consistent recall training due to prey drive
• Grooming: Minimal; weekly brushing and regular ear cleaning
• Living Environment: Best suited to homes with securely fenced yards
• Feeding: High-quality diet for active, medium-to-large dogs
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is generally robust and hardy, with an average lifespan of 12 to 13 years. Common health issues include:
• Ear infections (regular ear checks recommended)
• Hip dysplasia (occasional)
• Bloat (rare but possible due to deep chest—avoid heavy exercise immediately after meals)
Routine veterinary care, dental hygiene, and proper diet are key to long-term health.
• American English Coonhound: Similar in build but more varied in coat color; Treeing Walker is typically faster and more tree-focused
• Bluetick Coonhound: Heavier and slower; Treeing Walker is lighter and quicker
• Treeing Tennessee Brindle: Smaller and brindle-colored; both are agile and strong treeing hounds
If you desire a fast, intelligent, and enthusiastic hunting partner or a loving and energetic companion with a strong work ethic, the Treeing Walker Coonhound is an excellent choice.
Potential owners can connect with breeders through the United Kennel Club, American Coon Hunters Association, or Treeing Walker Coonhound breeders’ networks. United Pet Club provides valuable resources such as universal microchip registry, pet passports, and animal health record management, which are useful for responsible ownership of this active breed.