Plott Hound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Plott Hound is a muscular, brindle-coated scent hound from the mountains of North Carolina. It was developed to hunt bear and wild boar, and it combines courage, stamina and loyalty with a deep, ringing voice.

Origins and appearance

The breed traces to hounds brought from Germany by the Plott family in the eighteenth century and later crossed with local dogs. Plotts are medium-sized and athletic, with a broad head, drop ears, a short, glossy coat in brindle shades and a strong tail. Their build is more compact than that of many coonhounds.

Temperament

They are loyal, intelligent and brave. They bond with family and are usually good with children when socialized. They are determined and can be dominant with other dogs. They are vocal. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, with running, hiking and sniffing. Secure fencing is essential, since they follow scents and can climb or dig. Mental work matters.

Training

They are intelligent and determined. Use positive, consistent methods and early socialization. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Confident, calm handling works best. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing. Clean the ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Skin conditions. See dog skin allergies
• Obesity. See obesity risks in dogs

Living with a Plott Hound

They suit active, experienced owners with a secure yard. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to apartments, inactive households or long hours alone.

A typical day

A Plott wants a vigorous morning outing, training, a rest and an evening sniffing walk. Many are calm indoors once exercised.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bold and curious. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, vet care and secure fencing. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate moderate weather well, but need shade and water in heat and a coat in the cold. They travel well with a sturdy crate or harness.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting the dog off lead, underexercising, poor socialization and leaving the dog alone.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, the parents' hunting or companion lines and their temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live.

A dog with a history

The Plott family kept their hounds as a closely held line for generations, selecting for courage against large, dangerous game. That history explains the breed's bold nature. Pet owners often value the loyalty, but should expect a dog with strong opinions.

The state dog

The Plott Hound was named the official state dog of North Carolina in 1989, and the breed is one of a small number developed in the United States from European roots. Its rarity outside hunting circles means finding a pet puppy may take time.

Daily care checklist

• A long outing with room to run in a secure area.
• Training or scent games.
• Ear checks and brushing.
• Measured meals.
• Company and a soft bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Plott Hound suits active, experienced owners who want a bold, loyal hound and can provide training and secure fencing. It may not suit first-time owners or apartments. For a related hound, see the Black and Tan Coonhound.

The takeaway

Plott Hounds are brave, loyal and vocal, and they need exercise, secure fencing and experienced handling.