Breed Standard: AKC meet the Breeds
Described as "unique looking dog in a baggy suit," the Bloodhound is one of the oldest breeds of dogs that hunt by scent. Although affectionate, they can posess shy natures, sensitive to kindness or correction by their master. Colors of the Bloodhound include black and tan, liver and tan, and red, sometimes flecked with white. The actual term "Bloodhound" refers not to what the Bloodhound trails but instead refers to its status as the "blooded hound," meaning aristocratic, since such great length were taken early on to keep the strain clean. The bloodhound made its appearance in Europe long before the Crusades, when the first specimens were brought from Constantinople in two strains, black and white. Established in America for over a century, it proved early on to be a tireless worker for law enforcement. being so accurate that evidence trailed by a Bloodhound has been accepted in are courts of law. While bloodhounds are extremely affectionate, they are take-charge dogs, so it is important to be kind, but the undisputed boss in your household. (Good Luck with that one. I am pretty sure it is the other way around here.)
GENERAL CHARACTER: The Bloodhound possesses, in a most marked degree, every point and characteristic of those dogs which hunt together by scent. Very powerful, and stands over more ground than is usual with hounds of other breeds. The skin is thin to the touch and extremely loose, this being more especially noticeable about the head and neck, where it hangs in deep folds.
HEGHT: Average height of adult dogs is 25-27 inches.
WEIGHT: Average weight of adult dogs 90 pounds. Males attain the weight of 110 pounds and females 100 pounds.
EXPRESSION: Is noble and dignified, and characterized by solemnity, wisdom and power.
HEAD: The head is narrow in proportion to its length and long in proportion to the body, tapering slightly from the temples to the end of the muzzle. The occipital peak very pronounced. Brows not prominent, although, owing to the deep-set eyes.
WRINKLE: The head is furnished with an amount of loose skin, which in nearly every position appears superabundant, but more particularly so when the head is carried low.
NECK, SHOULDERS AND CHEST: The neck is long, the shoulders muscular and well sloped backwards; the ribs are well sprung.
LEGS AND FEET: The forelegs are straight and large in bone.
BACK AND LOIN: The back and loins are strong, the latter deep and slightly arched.
GAIT: The gait is elastic, swinging and free, the stern being carried high, but not too much curled over the back.
COLOR: The colors are black and tan, liver and tan and red. The darker colors being sometimes interspersed with lighter or badge-colored hair, and sometimes flecked with white. A small amount of white is permissible on chest, feet and tip of stern.
Congratulations you are now owned by a bloodhound.
