German Shepherd Coonhound Mix: Everything You Need to Know

Even though Coonhound dogs are not as famous as the German shepherd, they are loved for many reasons. They have a keen sense of smell and have a mellow nature to blend in with every type of family or individual.

So, do you think what would happen when crossing a German Shepherd with a Coonhound? Here we will discuss this unique combination and tell you everything about this German shepherd coonhound mix, and see if he is a great fit for your family or not. 

What Is A German Shepherd Coonhound Mix?

A German Shepherd Coonhound Mix is a hybrid dog, which combines two popular purebreds to come up with a unique personality. This dog breed will be medium to large with an energetic nature. The best thing is that this dog is intelligent, obedient, friendly, and healthy. 

Personality Of German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

 

The personality of the German Shepherd Coonhound Mix is dependent on the traits it dominates from both parents. That means every puppy will have a different personality and physical traits. However, you can see the following characteristics in a German Shepherd Coonhound Mix. 

• Size

You should know that both dog breeds are similar in size, and usually, a Coonhound has muscle buildup, making them heavier. That means whenever a German shepherd and Coonhound is crossed, and, undoubtedly, the offspring will be a heavy and large dog.  

• Coat

You should know that the coats of both dog breeds are different. The tan and black Coonhound has a dense and short coat. In contrast, the German shepherd has a medium-length coat layer with double density. However, the German Shepherd Coonhound Mix will be black and tan, but in some cases, it could take on the traits from the GSD parent. Most often, the pattern would be black with tan markings on some areas. 

• Strength 

The strength of the German Shepherd Coonhound Mix is undoubtedly solid and strong. That means their bodies are suitable for demanding work, and it also means that they also need much care to maintain the health of their joints and bones. You should know that they have a strong work ethic as they are highly active and passionate about working. 

Health Issues Of German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

Your German Shepherd Coonhound Mix will be a large dog, which means you should not overlook their upcoming health issues. As you already know that both dog parents are likely to develop elbow and hip dysplasia, so it is better to monitor both breeds before getting them crossed. Additionally, you should know that there are potential health problems that your hybrid dog can acquire from both parents. 

Potential Health Issues 

• Hip and Elbow dysplasia 
• Bloating 
• Ear infection
• Thyroid issues 
• Cataracts 

Despite having some potential health issues, your German Shepherd Coonhound hybrid dog is likely to live for 10-14 years. You should know the life expectancy is measured on the assumption that you are feeding them high-quality dog food, carrying out checkups from time to time, considering parasite prevention treatments, and challenging them with plenty of exercises. 

How To Care For German Shepherd Coonhound Mix

• Exercise Needs

To bring out the best from your German Shepherd Coonhound Mix, they will need many exercises. As you already know that they are an active, energetic, and playful dog breed, which means they need daily physical exertion to keep up their health. You should take him on a long walk and do some activities during playtime.

Training your dog for canine sports like flyball and agility is an excellent way to complete their exercise needs. Apart from this, these exercises also hone their working and mental abilities. 

• Temperaments

With proper training and socialization, the German Shepherd Coonhound Mix would be a great companion as well as a working dog. You should know that they inherit confidence, eagerness, and loyalty to protect and guard their parents and loved ones.

The best thing about them is they are affectionate and warm towards their family. However, they need plenty of exercise and strong leadership to keep from developing destructive or unwanted behavior. You should know that the Coonhound dogs have a history of being game hunters, which means they will have a high prey drive. 

• Grooming

This hybrid dog is likely to shed heavily throughout the whole year if it takes over the traits of a German Shepherd parent. Most probably, it would shed his coat twice during the year. You can easily manage its coat shedding with weekly brushing and occasional bathing.

However, if it takes over the traits of Coonhounds, then you don’t have such a mess because of its short coat. But you should know that it will still shed its coat regularly. So, you would need to bathe it frequently to maintain proper hygiene. 

How To Train German Shepherd Coonhound Mix 

When training your German Shepherd Coonhound Mix, you need to consider many things as they are active, energetic, and like challenges that test their ability. As you already know, they need plenty of exercises to exert their daily energy, and feeding with proper nutrition would help keep their health up to the mark. In addition, you should consider taking a long walk or doing some activities to exert your energy.

Apart from that, you also need to train them how to socialize and when to show their aggressive behavior. You know that they are intelligent and active, which means you should train them with some tricks and teach them how to follow your command. The best thing about German Shepherd Coonhound Mix is that they are highly trainable dogs eager to work and please you. 

Is A German Shepherd Coonhound Mix Right For Your Family?

If you can handle energetic and active dogs and guide them with strong leadership, then this dog breed will be right for your family. In addition, you should know how to train them for socializing and improve their behavior around different things. 

Final Words

Given the German Shepherd Coonhound Mix traits, this dog breed is an intelligent and excellent dog for both home and work.