Redbone Coonoodle
The Redbone Coonoodle is a cross between the Redbone Coonhound and the Poodle. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Redbone Coonoodle. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Redbone Coonhound
The Redbone Coonhound is a strikingly handsome American hound known for its flashy solid red coat that gives the breed its distinctive name. Males typically stand between 22 and 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 45 and 70 pounds, with females slightly smaller at 21 to 26 inches in height and similar weight ranges. The body is well-proportioned, lean, and muscular, built for stamina and agility rather than raw speed. The overall impression is of a streamlined athlete capable of covering rough terrain for hours while pursuing game. The head is pleasing to the eye with a moderately broad skull and a muzzle that is square in profile. The expression is one of pleading appeal, enhanced by the low-set ears that reach nearly to the tip of the nose when drawn forward. These long, pendulous ears are soft and velvety in texture and set low on the head, hanging in graceful folds that help funnel scent particles toward the nose during trailing. The large, round eyes are dark brown to hazel, contributing to the breed's characteristic soulful expression. The nose is large with well-opened nostrils for optimal scent detection. The coat is short, smooth, and dense, providing protection from underbrush while remaining easy to maintain. The color is always a rich, deep red ranging from bright crimson to dark mahogany, with a small amount of white on the chest or feet permissible but not preferred. The texture should be coarse enough to offer some protection yet fine enough to gleam. The tail is set moderately high and carried saber-fashion with a moderate upward curve. A distinguishing feature of the Redbone Coonhound is its webbed feet, which aid in swimming and navigating wet, swampy terrain during hunts. The breed moves with an easy, ground-covering stride that reflects its tireless hunting heritage.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament One of the most notable characteristics of the Redbone Coonhound is its distinctive voice. Like all coonhounds, they are vocal dogs with a melodious bay that carries over great distances. While this trait is prized by hunters, it may prove challenging in suburban or urban environments where neighbors might not appreciate the musical qualities of hound vocalizations. Redbone Coonhounds thrive on human companionship and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. They may become destructive or develop nuisance behaviors if understimulated. Active families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find the Redbone Coonhound to be a devoted, affectionate, and entertaining companion.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, represents a serious health risk for deep-chested breeds like the Redbone Coonhound. This life-threatening emergency occurs when the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists, requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Coonhound paralysis, also called polyradiculoneuritis, is a condition that can occur following exposure to raccoon saliva, causing progressive weakness and paralysis that typically resolves with supportive care. Hypothyroidism has also been documented in the breed, causing weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems when the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones. Regular veterinary checkups and attention to these breed-specific concerns will help ensure a long, healthy life.
Poodle
The Standard Poodle is an elegant and athletic medium to large-sized dog that carries itself with an air of dignity and intelligence. Standing over 15 inches at the shoulder, with most individuals reaching between 18 and 24 inches, the Standard Poodle typically weighs between 40 and 70 pounds, with males generally larger than females. Despite its often elaborate show clips that may suggest ornamentation over function, the Poodle is a solidly built, muscular dog bred originally as a water retriever in Germany. The body is squarely proportioned with a level topline, presenting a picture of refined athleticism rather than delicate fragility or excessive substance. The head is long and refined with a moderately rounded skull and a long, straight muzzle that is fine but not snipey, giving the breed its characteristic elegant profile. Dark, oval-shaped eyes are set somewhat far apart and convey an expression of keen intelligence, alertness, and readiness for action. The ears are set at or slightly below eye level and hang close to the head, covered with long, wavy hair that adds to the breed's distinctive appearance. The neck is well-proportioned, strong, and rises elegantly from the shoulders, and the chest is deep and moderately wide with well-sprung ribs. The tail is set high, docked to a sufficient length in countries where this is still practiced, and carried up when the dog is in motion. The Poodle's most distinctive feature is its dense, curly, single-layered coat that is considered hypoallergenic and sheds minimally compared to other breeds. This unique coat texture allowed the breed to work effectively in cold water while remaining protected, with the elaborate clips originally designed to keep vital organs and joints warm while reducing drag during swimming. The coat comes in a variety of solid colors including black, white, brown, gray, silver, apricot, cream, and red, with parti-colored individuals also appearing though not accepted in all show venues. The Poodle moves with a light, springy, and effortless gait that reflects its athletic capabilities and elegant structure.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Poodles can be reserved with strangers but should never be shy or aggressive. They are alert and make excellent watchdogs, readily sounding the alarm when something unusual occurs in their environment. The breed generally gets along well with children and other pets when raised with them, though their sensitive nature means they do not respond well to harsh handling or chaotic environments. Poodles are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods and do best in homes where they receive ample attention and companionship. Their combination of intelligence, elegance, and devoted temperament has made them one of the most popular companion breeds worldwide.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Gastric dilatation-volvulus, or bloat, represents a serious risk for deep-chested breeds like the Standard Poodle. This emergency condition can be fatal without immediate treatment. Von Willebrand's disease, a blood clotting disorder, appears in the breed and can cause excessive bleeding during surgery or after injuries. Hypothyroidism, causing weight gain and lethargy due to insufficient thyroid hormone production, also occurs with some frequency. Epilepsy and degenerative myelopathy are additional concerns in the breed. Regular veterinary examinations, genetic testing of breeding stock, and awareness of these conditions help ensure Poodles live long, healthy lives.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Redbone Coonoodle may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Redbone Coonhound and Poodle to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.