Grooming a black and tan coonhound is surprisingly low maintenance thanks to its short, dense coat. Weekly brushing, occasional baths, and routine ear and nail care are all you need to keep this hound looking and feeling great. Here’s exactly how to do it.

Brushing and Shedding Control

Your coonhound’s double coat sheds moderately year-round with heavier seasonal blows. A weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush (like the KONG ZoomGroom) or a hound glove removes loose hair and distributes skin oils. For heavier shedding, a shedding blade or a deshedding tool like the FURminator can be used gently once a week during peak seasons. Avoid overbrushing, which can irritate the skin.

Brushing tips:

  • Brush in the direction of hair growth.
  • Pay extra attention to the neck and tail where the coat is thicker.
  • Use a soft-bristle brush for the face and legs.

Bathing and Odor Control

Black and tan coonhounds have a distinct musky “hound smell” that can become strong if not managed. Bathe your dog every 4-8 weeks or when dirty, using a mild oatmeal or deodorizing dog shampoo. Avoid overbathing, which strips natural oils and can cause dry skin.

Bathing steps:

  1. Brush thoroughly before the bath to remove loose hair.
  2. Use lukewarm water and wet the coat completely.
  3. Apply shampoo, working from the neck down, avoiding eyes and ears.
  4. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
  5. Dry with a microfiber towel; a low-heat blow dryer on the cool setting can speed up drying.

Between baths, dry shampoo or pet wipes can help freshen the coat. For persistent odor, check for dental issues or anal glands, and consult your veterinarian if needed.

Ear Cleaning and Nail Care

Black and tan coonhounds have long, floppy ears that require weekly cleaning to prevent infections. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and a cotton ball (never a cotton swab) to wipe the outer ear. If you notice redness, debris, or a foul smell, see a veterinarian.

Nail trimming should be done every 3-4 weeks. Use a guillotine-style or scissor-style nail clipper for dogs. Trim the nail tip just before the quick (the pink area). If you’re unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to demonstrate. Active dogs on pavement may wear nails down naturally, but always keep them short to avoid splitting or discomfort.

Coat-Friendly Diet and Supplements

A healthy coat starts from within. Feed a high-quality dog food rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (from fish oil or flaxseed). Supplements like fish oil or coconut oil can improve coat shine and reduce shedding, but always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements.

Regular exercise and proper hydration also support skin and coat health. A tired coonhound is a happy, well-groomed coonhound.

Key Takeaway

Weekly brushing, monthly baths, and routine ear and nail care keep your black and tan coonhound’s coat healthy and minimize shedding and odor.