Bloodhound Breed Guide
Also known as: St. Hubert Hound, Sleuth Hound
Possessing the world's best nose, Bloodhounds are gentle, determined trackers whose scenting ability is truly legendary among dog breeds.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Large
Weight
36-60 kg
Lifespan
10-12 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Large
Weight
36-60 kg
Lifespan
10-12 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
About Bloodhounds
Originally bred in medieval Europe for tracking game, the Bloodhound's scenting ability is legendary among canines, with some estimates suggesting they can follow trails over 130 hours old. Their distinctive wrinkled face and long ears help channel scent particles to their nose, making them invaluable in search and rescue operations worldwide.
These gentle giants are surprisingly calm indoors but transform into determined trackers outdoors. Their short coat sheds moderately but requires regular ear cleaning to prevent infections.
Bloodhounds are patient with children and other pets, though their size requires supervision. They need moderate exercise but excel at mental stimulation through scent work. Prospective owners should understand their tendency toward bloat and joint issues common in large breeds.
Complete Care Guide for Bloodhounds
Expert advice on keeping your Bloodhound healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition forms the foundation of a Bloodhound's health and longevity. These large, active dogs require carefully balanced meals rich in high-quality proteins and healthy fats, particularly Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, to maintain their robust build and support their energetic lifestyle.
Portion control plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal health, as Bloodhounds can easily gain excess weight. Owners should carefully measure meals and adjust serving sizes based on their dog's age, weight, and activity level. Due to their deep-chested structure, these gentle giants face an increased risk of bloat, making it essential to divide their daily food allowance into multiple smaller meals rather than one or two large servings.
When selecting food for a Bloodhound, prioritise options that include joint-supporting nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin. These components help protect their skeletal system, which can face considerable stress due to their size. Additionally, avoid feeding immediately before or after exercise to reduce the risk of gastric complications.
Monitor your Bloodhound's eating habits and adjust portions as needed, particularly during different life stages. Puppies require more frequent meals with specific nutritional ratios to support healthy growth, while senior dogs may need modified diets with adjusted caloric content to prevent weight gain as their activity levels naturally decrease.
How healthy is your Bloodhound?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Bloodhounds from our community of pet parents
Bloodhounds are known for their gentle, even-tempered and patient nature. They are extremely friendly dogs, not just with their human family, but also with strangers and other animals. Despite their large size, they are generally good with children and can be quite affectionate. However, they may also be independent and stubborn at times, which can make training a challenge.
Dog Breeds Similar to Bloodhound
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Bloodhound

Bluetick Coonhound
Striking blue-mottled coats mark these determined hunters, Bluetick Coonhounds combine persistence with a surprisingly gentle home personality.

Black and Tan Coonhound
Born to track with their melodious voices, Black and Tan Coonhounds are gentle giants when not following an irresistible scent.

Basset Hound
With their soulful eyes and gentle nature, Basset Hounds are laid-back companions whose tracking instincts occasionally take over.