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Plott Hound

Plott Hound is a large hound breed from United States also known as Plott, North Carolina State Dog.

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Breed overview

Plott Hound is a large hound breed from United States also known as Plott, North Carolina State Dog.

North Carolina's official state dog, developed by German immigrant Johannes Georg Plott in the 1750s. He brought Hanover Hounds to America and bred them specifically for hunting bears and wild boar in the Appalachian Mountains.

People looking into Plott Hound usually prepare for High exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 40–75 lbs • 20–27 in.

PlottNorth Carolina State Dog

History and origin

Plott Hound is tied to originating from United States, specifically North Carolina, with sources often placing its development around 1750 CE.

Plott Hound is described here as placed in the hound group and marked as an established breed.

North Carolina's official state dog, developed by German immigrant Johannes Georg Plott in the 1750s. He brought Hanover Hounds to America and bred them specifically for hunting bears and wild boar in the Appalachian Mountains.

Browse dog breeds from United States Browse more hound breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
hound
Size
Large
Origin country
United States
Region
North Carolina
Origin year
1750 CE
Weight
40–75 lbs
Height
20–27 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
4 / 5
High exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Plott Hound is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortSmoothFine

Plott Hound is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium to large athletic hound
  • Distinctive brindle coat pattern
  • Long, drooping ears typical of scent hounds
  • Muscular build suited for mountain terrain

What this breed is known for

  • North Carolina's official state dog, developed by German immigrant Johannes Georg Plott in the 1750s. He brought Hanover Hounds to America and bred them specifically for hunting bears and wild boar in the Appalachian Mountains.
  • The only coonhound breed not descended from English Foxhounds - they have pure German heritage. For over 200 years, the Plott family kept the bloodline pure and rarely sold dogs outside their mountain community.
  • Known for their incredible courage and tenacity when hunting dangerous game. They're fearless enough to bay a 400-pound black bear and hold it until hunters arrive, often working in packs for safety.

Health and care notes

Plott Hound is noted here for High exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Ear Infections

Coat details: Short, Smooth, Fine

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Plott Hound come from?

Plott Hound is closely associated with United States, especially North Carolina in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Plott Hound get?

Typical size details for Plott Hound on this page are 40–75 lbs, 20–27 in, 12–14 years.

What is the Plott Hound known for?

North Carolina's official state dog, developed by German immigrant Johannes Georg Plott in the 1750s. He brought Hanover Hounds to America and bred them specifically for hunting bears and wild boar in the Appalachian Mountains.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Plott Hound reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.