Redbone Shepherd

The Redbone Shepherd is a cross between the Redbone Coonhound and the German Shepherd. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Redbone Shepherd. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Redbone Coonhound

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 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 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.
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German Shepherd

German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a large, well-muscled, and athletic dog that exemplifies strength, agility, and noble bearing. Males typically stand between 24 and 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 66 and 88 pounds, while females measure 22 to 24 inches in height and weigh between 49 and 71 pounds. The body is longer than it is tall, deep-bodied, and presents an outline of smooth curves rather than angles. The overall impression is of muscular fitness and nimbleness combined with substance and impressive physical capability. The head is strong, clean-cut, and in proportion to the body, with a noble expression that conveys keen intelligence and alertness. The skull is slightly domed with a moderate stop, tapering to a long, wedge-shaped muzzle that houses a powerful jaw with a complete scissor bite. The medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes are dark and set obliquely, giving the breed its characteristic attentive expression. The ears are moderately pointed, open toward the front, and carried erect when at attention, enhancing the breed's alert appearance. The strong neck is muscular and relatively long, carried at an angle of about 45 degrees when the dog is alert. The coat is a double layer with a dense, straight, harsh outer coat lying close to the body and a thick undercoat that provides insulation. Coat length is medium, though long-coated individuals do occur. The most common colors are tan and black or red and black, typically displaying the classic saddle pattern with black covering the back and sides over a tan or red base. Solid black and sable variations are also recognized. The tail is bushy and reaches at least to the hock, carried in a gentle curve when at rest. The German Shepherd moves with a distinctive long, ground-covering trot that exemplifies the breed's efficiency and tireless working ability.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament German Shepherds form intensely loyal bonds with their families and do not thrive when isolated or left alone for extended periods. They require substantial physical exercise and mental stimulation to remain balanced and content. This is an active breed that excels when given a job to perform, whether that involves formal training, dog sports, or simply accompanying their family on adventures. German Shepherds are typically patient and gentle with children they know, though their size and energy level warrant supervision around young children. When properly raised and trained, the German Shepherd becomes an outstanding family protector and companion whose devotion and capabilities are virtually unmatched in the canine world.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations German Shepherds are prone to various skin allergies and conditions, including food allergies, environmental allergies, and flea allergies that manifest as itchy, irritated skin. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is a degenerative disease affecting the pancreas that occurs more commonly in German Shepherds than other breeds, causing severe weight loss and malnutrition if untreated. Additional concerns include von Willebrand's disease, hypothyroidism, pannus and other eye conditions, bloat, hemangiosarcoma, and various cancers. The breed typically lives 10 to 12 years. Selecting puppies from health-tested parents and maintaining regular veterinary care helps manage these risks.
Learn More About The German Shepherd

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 Shepherd 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 German Shepherd to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.