Treeing Walker Coonhound

A Treeing Walker Coonhound’s short coat is pretty low-maintenance, but routine care is still needed to keep them comfortable, healthy, and odor-free (especially after muddy adventures).

• Skin care: After time spent outside, check their skin for burrs, foxtails, ticks, and cuts on their skin. Your pup may need a bath every four to eight weeks with a gentle dog shampoo. Always dry their ears well after each bath to reduce the risk of an ear infection.
• Coat care: Brush your dog once or twice weekly with a rubber curry comb or grooming glove to lift loose hair and dirt.
• Nail care: Because they’re such active dogs, a Treeing Walker Coonhound’s nails often wear down naturally. But if you hear their nails click across the floor as they walk, it’s time for a trim.
• Ear care: Their long, low-set ears trap moisture and debris, which can lead to infections. Check and clean your dog’s ears weekly with a vet-approved ear cleanser.
• Dental care: Like all dogs, Treeing Walker Coonhounds benefit from daily tooth brushing to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

Training a Treeing Walker Coonhound requires patience, consistency, and a good sense of humor.

Though these hounds are smart and eager to please, their strong nose and independent nature can easily distract them. Short, engaging training sessions using positive reinforcement (training treats, dog toys, and praise) work best.

Early socialization is especially important for Treeing Walker Coonhound puppies. Introduce them to new people, environments, and other animals from a young age to build confidence and help prevent unwanted behaviors, such as shyness or overexcitement around strangers.

Because Treeing Walker Coonhounds were bred to hunt, recall training is vital. Otherwise, their instinct to follow a scent may override your commands and lead them into trouble.

First-time pet parents can succeed with this breed if they commit to consistent training and exercise, but experienced pet parents may find it easier to manage their high energy and independent nature. Puppy classes, obedience training, and mental stimulation all help ensure your Treeing Walker Coonhound puppy grows into a well-mannered companion.

Feeding your Treeing Walker Coonhound isn’t complicated, but it does take a little planning.

A high-quality, AAFCO-compliant diet that matches your dog’s age and activity level will keep them fueled and healthy. Most adults do best with two measured meals a day, while Treeing Walker Coonhound puppies may need up to four smaller daily meals to support their rapid growth.

If your Treeing Walker Coonhound is a working dog or lives a very active lifestyle, they’ll need a high-protein dog food, like Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Dog Food, to support their energy levels. Your vet can help you find the best dog food for your pet’s lifestyle and health.

Because Treeing Walker Coonhounds can develop a life-threatening condition called bloat, take a few precautions around mealtimes:

• Feed multiple meals throughout the day instead of one big breakfast or dinner
• Avoid exercising your dog for two hours before or after they eat
• Avoid elevated food bowls; instead, place their food bowl on the ground
• Use a slow-feeder bowl to stop them from scarfing their food too quickly

Be cautious about how many treats you’re giving your dog; they should never make up more than 10% of a pup’s daily diet.

Think of your Treeing Walker Coonhound as a marathon runner with a super-powered nose. These dogs need at least 60–90 minutes of exercise every day, ideally split between morning and evening.

Long walks, hikes, and jogs (once they’re fully grown) will help burn off their endless energy. Games of chase in a safe, fenced yard are always a hit, and their natural talents shine in scent work, tracking, and field trials—basically anything that lets them put their powerful nose to work.

On days when the weather isn’t cooperating, mix things up with puzzle toys, snuffle mats, or a round of hide-and-seek with some favorite dog treats. Short training sessions also double as great mental workouts.

When your Treeing Walker Coonhound puppy is young, keep their activities age-appropriate to protect developing joints. You can gradually increase exercise intensity as they mature. Your vet will give you the best guidance on age-appropriate exercise.

But remember: Every dog is an individual, and your Treeing Walker Coonhound might prefer more (or less!) exercise than what’s typical for the breed.

“I’ve had some just lie around and do nothing, while others are like the Tasmanian devil,” Champ says.

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are happiest in homes where they’re part of the action.

A secure, fenced yard is ideal, as these hounds can be escape artists if they catch an interesting scent. But with enough walks, play, and enrichment, motivated pet parents can even make apartment living work.

Treeing Walker Coonhounds usually enjoy the company of other dogs, and many can do well with cats they’re raised with. But be cautious, because smaller pets may spark their prey drive.

With the right mix of exercise, companionship, and structure, Treeing Walker Coonhounds shine as cheerful, loyal family members who bring joy to every adventure.