Plott Hounds are a breed of dogs that have been bred for hunting for centuries. Their history is rooted in the Appalachian Mountains, where they were used for hunting big game like bears and boars. In recent years, however, Plott Hounds have become increasingly popular as pets. In this blog post, we will explore why Plott Hounds make great pets, what makes them unique, and what you should know before bringing one home.
History of the Plott Hound
The Plott Hound has a long and storied history in the United States. The breed was developed by Johannes Plott, a German immigrant, in the 18th century. Plott settled in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and began breeding dogs for hunting. He bred his German hounds with local dogs to create a breed that was uniquely suited for hunting big game in the mountains.
Plott Hounds became popular in the region and were used by hunters for many years. They were prized for their strength, endurance, and tracking abilities. In the early 1900s, the breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club, and in 2006, it was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Plott Hounds as Pets
While Plott Hounds were originally bred for hunting, they make great pets for many reasons. First, they are incredibly loyal and affectionate. They love their families and are always eager to please. They are also very intelligent and trainable. With proper training, Plott Hounds can learn to do just about anything, from agility courses to obedience training.
Second, Plott Hounds are very adaptable. While they were originally bred for hunting in the mountains, they can adjust to life in the city or the suburbs with ease. They are also good with children and other pets, although they may have a strong prey drive, so caution should be taken with small animals.
Third, Plott Hounds are very active dogs. They need a lot of exercise and stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. This makes them great for people who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, running, or biking. They also make great companions for people who love to hunt or fish.
Unique Qualities of Plott Hounds
Plott Hounds have several unique qualities that set them apart from other breeds. First, they have a very distinctive look. They are medium-sized dogs with short, sleek coats that come in a variety of colors, including brindle, black, and buckskin. They have long, floppy ears and expressive eyes that give them a friendly and approachable look.
Second, Plott Hounds have a very distinctive voice. They are known for their loud, baying howl, which they use to communicate with their owners and other dogs. This can be a plus or a minus, depending on your living situation. If you live in a quiet neighborhood, you may want to think twice about getting a Plott Hound.
Third, Plott Hounds are very independent dogs. They were bred to work on their own in the mountains, so they can be stubborn and headstrong at times. This means that they may not always obey commands, and they may require a firm hand when it comes to training. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be great pets.
What You Should Know Before Bringing a Plott Hound Home
Before bringing a Plott Hound home, there are a few things you should know. First, as mentioned earlier, Plott Hounds are very active dogs. They need a lot of exercise and stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. If you don’t have the time or energy to provide this for your dog, a Plott Hound may not be the best choice for you.
Second, Plott Hounds can have a strong prey drive. This means that they may chase after small animals like cats or squirrels. If you have other pets in your home, it is important to introduce them slowly and carefully to ensure that they can coexist peacefully.
Third, Plott Hounds can be vocal. They are known for their loud, baying howl, which can be heard from a distance. If you live in a densely populated area, this may not be the best breed for you, as their howling may disturb your neighbors.
Fourth, Plott Hounds require regular grooming. While their short coats don’t require a lot of maintenance, they do shed moderately and will need regular brushing to keep their coats looking healthy and shiny.
Finally, Plott Hounds can be stubborn and independent. They were bred to work on their own in the mountains, so they may not always obey commands or respond to training in the way you expect. Patience and consistency are key when it comes to training a Plott Hound, and it is important to establish yourself as the pack leader early on.
Tips for Owning a Plott Hound
If you’re thinking about bringing a Plott Hound into your home, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your new pet is happy and healthy.
First, provide plenty of exercise and stimulation. Plott Hounds need a lot of exercise, both physically and mentally. Make sure to take your dog on long walks or hikes, and provide plenty of opportunities for play and training. Puzzle toys and games can also help keep your dog’s mind engaged.
Second, establish yourself as the pack leader. Plott Hounds can be independent and stubborn, but they also crave leadership and structure. Set clear boundaries and expectations, and use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior.
Third, socialize your Plott Hound early and often. Plott Hounds can be wary of strangers and other animals, so it is important to socialize with them from a young age. Introduce them to new people, places, and situations gradually, and provide positive reinforcement for good behavior.
Fourth, be patient and consistent with training. Plott Hounds may not always respond to commands or training in the way you expect, but consistency and patience can go a long way. Use positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods, and be patient as your dog learns new behaviors.
In conclusion, Plott Hounds make great pets for many reasons. They are loyal, intelligent, adaptable, and active, and they have a unique history and personality that sets them apart from other breeds. If you’re thinking about bringing a Plott Hound into your home, it is important to be aware of their needs and quirks and to provide plenty of exercise, leadership, and socialization. With the right care and attention, a Plott Hound can be a wonderful addition to any family.
