INTRODUCING THE STUNNING COONHOUND GERMAN SHEPHERD MIX

Intro

The German Shepherd Coonhound mix is a hybrid dog that combines two of the most popular working dog breeds in America.

This hybrid, lovable dog breed has been around for decades and is quickly becoming popular breeds because these dogs are so unique, easy-going, loyal dogs, and can perform seemingly endless roles in both a family and professional working dog setting!

Let’s begin

If you’re looking to add a pup from this amazing up-and-coming breed to your family, you must know everything there is to know about them first. Continue reading below for an in-depth look at the German Shepherd Coonhound mix.

Coonhound German Shepherd mix
Coonhound German Shepherd mix

What is a German Shepherd Coonhound Mix?

The German Shepherd Coonhound mix is a hybrid of German Shepherd dogs and the Coonhound. This breed has been around for a long time, but it’s not as well known as some other dog breeds or hybrid working/hunting dogs. 

These pups are hunting dogs, and they also have plenty of energy to play with you if you want to go out on walks or hikes together, making them an ideal fit for active families.

Coonhound German Shepherd mix
Coonhound German Shepherd mix– Find great dogs like this on petfinder.com

What You Need to Know About the German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

Crossing the German Shepherd and the Coonhound resulted in a highly intelligent, docile, and agile dog with a strong sense of smell, natural tracking ability, and a strong desire to protect and please its owners. 

Who Should Own a German Shepherd Coonhound Mix?

The Coonhound German Shepherd mix is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are the right dog for people who love the outdoors and like to go on long walks or hikes.

German Shepherd Coonhound Mix
German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

Types of Coonhounds

There are many different types of coonhounds. One of the most popular is the bluetick coonhound which comes in various shades of blue, tan, and black. The bluetick is known for its excellent hunting ability and its friendly personality.

Other popular types of Coonhounds include:

  • Redbone Coonhound
  • Treeing Walker Coonhound
  • American English Coonhound
  • Black and Tan Coonhound

The Coonhound breed was developed and bred in the United States after the Revolutionary War in the late 1700s to help settlers track raccoons, hence the play on words in their name, and other small animals due to their remarkable sense of smell. 

Black and tan Coonhound on the grass
Black and tan Coonhound on the grass

Types of German Shepherds

German shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dogs, and it’s no surprise why: they are loyal, protective, friendly, and intelligent companions. These dogs have earned a reputation for loving family pets and highly-trained service or guide dogs. Check out this blog for all the reasons why we love the German Shepherd breed. (THE TRUTH ABOUT WHY YOUR GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPY SO SKINNY)

There are many types of German Shepherds, each with its own unique set of color markings and traits; however, the above-mentioned attributes and strengths can be found in every type of German Shepherd

  • American German Shepherd
  • West German, German Shepherds
  • DDR German Shepherds
  • Czech German Shepherds
  • Mixed German Shepherds – like the German Shepherd Coonhound

The Physical Characteristics of a German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

The German Shepherd Coonhound mix has a medium-sized frame, well-developed muscles, and a thick coat of fur. It comes in a variety of colors which may include browns, grays, and black with white markings. The dog’s legs are long enough for it to be able to run fast without breaking its stride.

The average size of the German Shepherd Coonhound will vary greatly, depending on the parents of each breed type. However, most female German Shepherds stand between 22 -24 inches and weigh between 50 and -70 lbs, with female Coonhounds ranging from 23-25 inches tall and 65 to -100 lbs.

If you have a female German Shepherd Coonhound, it’s logical to assume that when she is fully grown that she will land within that range. 

German Shepherd Coonhound Mix
German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

The Average Life Expectancy of a German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

The average life expectancy of a German Shepherd coonhound mix is 10-13 years. This number can vary, though, depending on size and sex; for example, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger ones.

The German Shepherd Coonhound hybrid is often healthier than purebreds because they’re crossbred with less genetic diversity (meaning fewer health issues). However, you should still take steps to ensure that your pet lives as long and happily as possible, such as:

  • Having regular vet visits
  • Vaccination
  • A lot of exercises
  • Eating a healthy, breed-appropriate diet
  • Proper hydration
  • Regular Brushing and Grooming
  • Tick checks

Common Behavioral Traits of the German Shepherd Coonhound Mix Breed

The German Shepherd Coonhound mix is a hybrid breed that combines the characteristics of both parent breeds; this can be both good and bad.

This dog can be trained to hunt or simply live as a companion. They are generally calm and gentle with children and other animals, making them excellent police dogs as well as family pets.

However, these dogs are not for everyone because they do require plenty of exercise and companionship, so if left alone for long periods, they will become depressed. These dogs also will require vast amounts of training time due to their high energy levels.

Although eager to please and highly trainable, these dogs can cause trouble without proper guidance. It’s a good idea to teach proper socialization at a young age.

German Shepherd Coonhound Mix
German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

Health Issues You Should Be Aware of When Owning a German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

There are several health problems to be aware of when owning a German Shepherd Coonhound mix. These include:

  • Hip dysplasia. This is a genetic disorder that affects the hip joint, causing pain and lameness. It can also lead to arthritis in later life if untreated; this is very common in German Shepherds.
  • Bloat or other digestive problems. This is also very common for both German Shepherds and Coonhounds.

Ideally, both parents would be screened for any potentially life-threatening illnesses or genetics before your puppy is ever born. If your dog is experiencing health issues, it’s always best to contact your local vet. 

Hip Dysplasia Model Of The Dog
Hip dysplasia model of the dog showing by doctor

Does the American Kennel Club Recognize the German Shepherd Coonhound Mix as an Official Breed?

The German Shepherd Coonhound is not exactly recognized by any major kennel club (including the British Kennel Club).

The reason for this is simple: there’s no such thing as a purebred German Shepherd Coonhounddog! All dogs are hybrids–even if they have purebred parents or grandparents, chances are good that their DNA contains genes from many different breeds. 

While the AKC does not officially recognize this hybrid breed, it does offer the opportunity for you to register through the AKC Canine Partners Program. This will allow you to have your dog participate in a wide array of canine sports and work towards winning titles, both locally and nationally. 

Some events you might consider enrolling your German Shepherd Coonhound in include:

  • AKC Search & Rescue
  • The AKC Scent Work
  • AKC Tracking

All of the above competitions would be something that your new pup would flourish in! 

Why The German Shepherd Coonhound Will Make A Great Addition to Your Family

As mentioned prior, this breed is great with kids, loves other pets, and will always be happy to see you when you come home.

The German Shepherd Coonhound mixes are easy to train and make good guard dogs because of their strong instincts to protect their pack, which you will become a part of. These energetic dogs make great family pets with proper training.

German Shepherd Coonhound Mix playing with family
German Shepherd Coonhound Mix playing with family

German Shepherd Coonhound Mixes Make Excellent Police Dogs

If you’re looking for a dog who can be trained to sniff out bombs, drugs, and explosives, the German Shepherd Coonhound mix is an excellent choice.

These dogs are also very good at finding missing people and human remains, making them a popular choice among law enforcement. 

The main reason why this breed works so well as a police dog is that they have strong hunting instincts that they inherited from their ancestors: both the Coonhound and German Shepherd.

Their instincts are honed in on specific tasks like tracking criminals or sniffing out bombs–and this makes them ideal for use in law enforcement agencies around the world!

Black and an Coonhound walking on a pathway
Black and an Coonhound walking on a pathway

The German Shepherd Coonhound and its Amazing Hunting Ability

If you’re looking for a dog who can be your best furry friend and also help with the seasonal hunt, then this is the breed for you! While they may not be specifically bred for hunting purposes by their breeder, the German Shepherd Coonhound does enjoy it immensely!

Their instinct is a powerful one, they have a high prey drive, making them excellent companions on any adventure in the woods.

Once fully trained, the German Shepherd Coonhound will become an agile and dependable hunting dog, helping you catch your desired prey and then coming in for some loving belly rubs. 

Black and tan Coonhound 
Black and tan Coonhound 

Questions You Should Ask a Reputable Breeder When Looking for a German Shepherd Coonhound Mix Puppy

When you’re looking for a German Shepherd Coonhound mix puppy, it’s important to ask the right questions. Here are some of the things you should ask:

  • Why do you breed dogs?
  • What are the pros and cons of breeding dogs?
  • How many litters do you have per year? This can give you an idea about how much experience this breeder has with their animals and whether or not they’re professional enough to be trusted with your beloved pet.
  • It also gives insight into how much time is spent caring for each litter, which may help determine if this breed is right for your lifestyle. 
  • How do you determine what dogs to breed together? 
  • Are there any health issues you are concerned about in your line of German Shepherd Coonhound mix puppies? 
  • What’s the temperament of the parents like? 

Asking these questions and many more will help you determine if the breeder you are interested in has ethically bred their dogs and conducted a proper health screening. 

Look Around

Finding a German Shepherd Coonhound might not be as easy as you think either. Proper research is needed to find a puppy because both the German Shepherd and Coonhounds are more valuable to dog breeders as purebreds rather than a hybrid, leaving little incentive to crossbreed these dogs together.

We suggest asking your vet if they know of any local breeders or checking with your local ASPCA. 

The Wrap

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and find yourself a German Shepherd Coonhound Mix! This is one of the most versatile breeds out there, making them the best choice for families who want a dog that can hunt, play, and be a best friend with kids at the same time.