Plott Hound
The Plott Hound is a muscular, determined scenthound with a relentless work ethic forged in the mountains of western North Carolina. Unlike other coonhound breeds that trace to English Foxhound lines, the Plott descends from German Hanover Hounds, giving it a distinctive appearance and tenacity. These dogs were bred to trail and hold at bay bears and wild boar — dangerous game that required courage verging on recklessness — and that fearless persistence remains core to the breed's character. In a home setting, Plotts are loyal and affectionate with their families, often surprisingly gentle and mellow indoors once their exercise needs are met. However, they possess a strong prey drive and a powerful voice they use freely when excited or on scent, which makes them unsuitable for noise-restricted environments. They need substantial daily exercise and benefit enormously from activities that engage their nose — tracking, trailing, and scent work give them purpose. The Plott suits rural or suburban owners with space and tolerance for a vocal hound, particularly those who hunt or participate in trailing sports. Their pack-oriented nature means they generally do well with other dogs. Urban apartments and sedentary lifestyles will bring out the breed's worst tendencies: boredom barking, destructive behavior, and escape attempts.
History
The Plott Hound's story begins in 1750 when Johannes Georg Plott emigrated from Germany to North Carolina, bringing five Hanover Hounds with him. The Plott family spent generations refining these dogs in the Smoky Mountains for bear and boar hunting, rarely outcrossing and guarding their bloodlines closely. This makes the Plott the only coonhound breed without English Foxhound ancestry. The breed became North Carolina's official state dog in 1989. The AKC recognized the Plott Hound in 2006 in the Hound Group, making it one of the more recent additions to AKC registration despite its centuries-long American heritage.
Characteristics
Compatibility
Care Guide
The Plott's short, smooth, glossy coat is low-maintenance — weekly brushing and occasional baths keep it in good condition, and shedding is moderate. Their long, folded ears need weekly cleaning to prevent moisture buildup and infection, especially after swimming or working in wet conditions. Exercise needs are substantial: at least 60 minutes of vigorous daily activity, with running, hiking, and tracking being the most satisfying outlets. Plotts are intelligent but can be independent thinkers; training should start early and emphasize consistency, using their food motivation and desire to work as leverage. They are deep-chested dogs, so split meals twice daily and avoid exercise immediately after eating to reduce bloat risk.
Common Health Issues
- Hip DysplasiaJoint malformation causing progressive arthritis and mobility loss, particularly important to screen for in an athletic working breed. OFA screening of breeding stock and avoiding obesity help maintain joint health throughout the dog's active life.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and may rotate, cutting off blood supply and requiring emergency surgery. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals, using slow-feeder bowls, and restricting vigorous activity around mealtimes are standard preventive practices.
- Ear InfectionsThe breed's pendulous ears trap moisture and debris, creating conditions for bacterial and yeast infections that cause head shaking, odor, and discharge. Weekly ear cleaning and thorough drying after water exposure are the best preventive measures.