The 13 Best Dog Foods For Coonhounds in 2023

This ultimate guide lists all of the best dog foods for Coonhounds this year.

There are at least six different dog breeds that fall under the banner of Coonhound: The Black and Tan Coonhound, The Redbone Coonhound, The English Coonhound, The Bluetick Coonhound, The Treeing Walker Coonhound, The Plott Hound, and some would argue The American Leopard Hound as a seventh member. 

But regardless of the breed of coonhound you have, they all have similar traits. These scenthounds are all tenacious, strong dogs bred for their ability to track deer, bears, mountain lions, men, and of course, their namesake, raccoons. 

Coonhounds are rugged hunting dogs that seem happiest when chasing their quarry, but they are also just as content in your home laying on the most comfortable part of the couch. Coonhounds can make good family pets and are usually great with children. 

They are, however, extremely independent dogs with minds of their own. It’s best to think of them as complying with “commands” more than obeying them.

But no matter whether your’s is hunting or house hound, they need the proper nutrition to support their lifestyle, be it active or casual.      

To help you find the best dog food for your coonhound, we’ve compiled this list of The 13 Best Dog Foods for Coonhounds. Our top choices are based on a 40-point inspection list.

Because not all coonhounds are the same, read the list to the end to find the best food for yours. At the end of the list, we’ve included a FAQ of the most common questions and a buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision for your coonhound.

Let’s get started! 

The Best Dog Foods for Coonhounds Reviewed

#1. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Ocean Fish Meal, 3. Sweet Potatoes, 4. Potatoes, 5. Peas

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,600 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 25% | Fat (min.) 15% | Fiber (max.) 3% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

This grain-free recipe is loaded with powerful antioxidants and features a high-protein profile that contains excellent sources of nutrition for coonhounds. 

This food includes novel protein from real smoked salmon and fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, tomatoes, and raspberries. It is crafted in the USA under scientifically advanced food safety protocols for your dog’s safety. It is free of artificial ingredients, fillers, corn, wheat, and preservatives, making it a good choice for coonhounds with allergies or sensitive stomachs. 

#2. Solid Gold Wolf Cub Bison & Oatmeal Puppy Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients:  1. Bison, 2. Ocean Fish Meal, 3. Brown Rice, 4. Oatmeal, 5. Peas

• Life Stage: Puppy
• Suitable for: Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,470 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 26% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

This recipe for puppies by Solid Gold uses bison and ocean fish meal as its primary protein sources and is specifically for large breed puppies like coonhounds.

It contains nutritious whole grains and probiotics for your growing pup’s gut health. Additionally, it has a blend of 20 nutritious superfoods like lentils, kelp, almond oil, broccoli, carrots, cranberries, blueberries, and pumpkins.

Including all these superfoods means that your coonhound pup will be supplied with the micro and macronutrients it needs to become the dog of your dreams.

#3. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Senior Chicken Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Whole Brown Rice, 4. Brewers Rice, 5. Split Peas

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Large, giant breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,457 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 22% | Fat (min.) 10% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

This specialized diet for senior dogs by Nutro Max is an excellent option if you are looking for great nutrition to serve your aging coonhound. This kibble has the perfect nutritional profile to support your senior coonhound’s specific needs and uses the finest ingredients. 

Chicken provides the high-quality protein source for this recipe, containing no GMOs, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. It includes natural fiber to keep an older dog’s digestion moving and antioxidants to keep its immune system strong. 

Finally, this formula includes natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin to keep your redbone’s old bones and joints lubricated and moving. 

#4. Purina Beyond Chicken, Carrot & Pea Recipe Entrée Canned Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Broth, 3. Liver, 4. Carrots, 5. Peas

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,209 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 8% | Fat (min.) 6% | Fiber (max.) 15% | Moisture (max.) 78%
• Form: Wet Food

Not often, but sometimes you will run into a coonhound that’s a picky eater. For those coonhounds that prefer wet food to dry, we recommend this canned from Purina Beyond. The main ingredients in this recipe are chicken meat, carrots, and peas, which are highly digestible and flavorful.

Probiotic fibers from the vegetables improve the digestive health of sensitive coonhounds, while the essential vitamins and minerals provide a 100% balanced nutritional profile. Importantly, this formula is free of fillers and allergens like corn, wheat, soy, grains, and artificial additives that upset the stomach of sensitive dogs. 

#5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Grain-Free Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Beef, 2. Pea Protein, 3. Pea Starch, 4. Tapioca Starch, 5. Fish Meal

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,641 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 30% | Fat (min.) 15% | Fiber (max.) 6% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

This grain-free recipe by Blue Buffalo Wilderness features a high-protein profile, imitating the natural diet of wolves.  This recipe uses the finest ingredients, including high-quality deboned beef, beef meal, and fish meal as primary ingredients for maximum protein content. 

Glucosamine and L-Carnitine support overall mobility and great joint function, while fruits and vegetables provide the lynchpins necessary for your coonhound’s overall health.

#6. American Journey Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Brown Rice, 4. Rice Bran, 5. Peas

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,476 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 25% | Fat (min.) 15% | Fiber (max.) 6% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

This diet from American Journey is a complete and balanced meal that’s also easy on the pocket. It uses high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients your hound needs to live a long, happy, and healthy life.

Real deboned chicken is this diet’s primary protein, containing 25% protein overall. Sweet potatoes and carrots provide fiber antioxidants and micronutrients for immunity, while fiber-rich grains help with the overall digestibility of this formula. 

Omega-3 and omega-6 antioxidants provide a healthy coat and skin—keeping your coonhound’s coat shiny. Finally, this recipe contains no corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It’s a meal you can be proud to serve your hound.

#7. ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Turkey, 3. Flounder, 4. Whole Mackerel, 5. Chicken Liver

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,940 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 38% | Fat (min.) 18% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 12%
• Form: Dry

If you want to put some healthy weight on your coonhound, we recommend Orijen Original Grain-Free Dog Food. It’s made from nearly 85% animal ingredients and contains tons of protein, which makes it easier to digest and optimal for muscle growth.

Among the protein sources are chicken and turkey meat, liver, whole mackerel, and many other types of organ meat to give your dog a variety of nutrients. Coonhounds also need energy-dense foods to fuel their daily activities, which the food supplies with non-grain carbs like green lentils, chickpeas, and beans. Each kibble is coated with freeze-dried meat to give the food a delectable taste and aroma. 

#8. Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain-Free Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Turkey Meal, 3. Peas, 4. Tapioca, 5. Menhaden Fish Meal

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,668 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 35% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 6% | Moisture (max.) 9%
• Form: Dry

There’s no better diet for sustaining muscle mass while losing excess fat than Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Formula. For starters, the food consists of 35% protein made from deboned chicken and turkey meat to enhance muscle repair and growth. It also features reduced calories and 25% less fat to trigger weight loss, along with L-carnitine that metabolizes body fat and makes your Coonhound leaner. 

Despite fewer calories, your Coonhound will remain active as the food contains non-grain carbs like peas and tapioca to power their daily activities. It’s also super-delicious and loved by picky eaters because of the freeze-dried meat chunks. 

Moreover, the diet will suit the sensitive stomach of Coonhounds just fine as it’s free from grains, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives.

#9. Zignature Lamb Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients:  1. Lamb, 2. Lamb Meal, 3. Peas, 4. Chickpeas, 5. Pea Flour

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 4,040 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 28% | Fat (min.) 15% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

This grain-free, limited-ingredient diet by Zignature is for dogs with digestive sensitivities. It contains a single source of protein and a handful of other ingredients you can count on to be gentle to your hound’s stomach.

New Zealand lamb is the single protein source. Still, it provides Pantothenic Acid, Phosphorous, Manganese, and a rich supply of Vitamins A, B12, and B6, along with Riboflavin, Iron, Niacin, Copper, and Zinc. Indeed a remarkable source of protein. 

It’s free from common coonhound allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and dairy, adding to its stomach-friendly nature. Finally, peas and chickpeas offer a source of low-glycemic carbs that provide potent antioxidants for a healthy immune system. 

#10. Nutro LID Sensitive Support Real Lamb & Sweet Potato Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Lamb, 2. Lamb Meal, 3. Chickpeas, 4. Dried Potatoes, 5. Dried Sweet Potato

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Large, giant breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,914 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 20% | Fat (min.) 13% | Fiber (max.) 3.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

Finding an allergy-relief dog food for Coonhounds is crucial as they are susceptible to bloating and skin problems. And that’s precisely why we picked Nutro LID Sensitive Support Large Breed Formula. 

It’s made from a limited selection of gentle ingredients like lamb meat, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and beet pulp that are full of nutrients and have a lower risk of causing an allergic reaction.

The formula also contains a decent amount of protein for muscle nourishment and enough calories to fuel the most energetic coonhounds for a full day. You will also find a range of essential micros in the food, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support general body functions. Besides being grain-free, the food is also free from dairy, corn, wheat, and soy, making it perfect for hounds with severe allergies. 

#11. Nom Nom Turkey Fare

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Ground Turkey, 2. Brown Rice, 3. Eggs, 4. Carrots, 5. Spinach 

• Life Stage: All
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,479 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 10% | Fat (min.) 5% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 72%
• Form: Frozen

Dogs look a different kind of healthy when fed a premium-quality diet. And Nom Nom is undoubtedly one of those diets. 

The company has board-certified nutritionists to help you prepare a customized meal plan for your coonhound. You supply them with your dog’s age, breed, and activity levels, and they create a unique recipe for your dog, delivered to your door.

Our favorite one for Coonhounds, the Turkey Feast, is made from ground turkey, brown rice, carrots, spinach, and various natural foods. It packs a delicious taste and aroma that most coonhounds love. Specialized nutrition like this comes at a premium — though it seems insignificant when considering the noticeable health benefits.

#12. Crave High Protein White Fish & Salmon Grain-Free Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. White Fish, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Lentils, 4. Split Peas, 5. Chicken Fat

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,717 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 34% | Fat (min.) 17% | Fiber (max.) 3.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

Dogs instinctually want food that resembles their natural diet, which is why Crave High Protein White Fish & Salmon Formula is the favorite choice of picky eaters. It’s designed after the diet of wolves and is extremely rich in protein at 34%. Most of this comes from whitefish and salmon meal which is full of amino acids to build and repair muscles.

Moreover, the recipe features protein-rich veggies like lentils and peas to fuel your dog with easily-digestible carbs. It’s also fortified with essential vitamins and minerals that improve digestion and support immune health. 

Another thing that makes the food ideal for sensitive Coonhounds is that it’s free from by-product meals, soy, corn, wheat, artificial additives, and grains. 

#13. GO! SENSITIVITIES LID Salmon Grain-Free Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. De-Boned Salmon, 2. Salmon Meal, 3. Tapioca, 4. Peas, 5. Lentils

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 4,084 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 4.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

This recipe from Go features a range of easily digestible ingredients that can fuel the most active canines. Deboned salmon is the first ingredient—full of amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids to support muscle repair and nourish your dog’s coat. 

To fuel your dog’s energy reserves, the brand uses lentils, chickpeas, and tapioca as they metabolize gradually without causing any digestive upset. You will find zero grains, potatoes, chicken, corn, wheat, and artificial additives in the recipe, a significant reason why this food is an excellent pick for Coonhounds and their naturally sensitive stomach. 

How to Switch Dog Food Without Getting Your Pup Sick

Best Dog Foods for Coonhounds – A Buyer’s Guide

Whether you are already a proud parent of a coonhound or are planning to buy one, having detailed know-how about this breed and their diet can make a lot of difference to the quality of life they will live.

This guide will help you learn more about coonhounds.

Everything You Need to Know About Feeding a Coonhound

First thing first, the amount of food that you give to your coonhound should be very well analyzed. That is, it should be around 3 to 5 cups of high-quality dog food every day. It is best to give it once in the morning and once in the evening. Coonhounds love to eat, so you have to be very careful about overfeeding them. They will continue to ask for more food. You can still treat them with one or two treats per day, but do not exceed that.

You have to keep a very close account about what you feed them because they do have a high tendency to gain weight (you will get an insight into this later in this article), and I am sure you wouldn’t want that as their excessive weight can cause various health issues. The right amount of nutrition should be fed to coonhounds for their maximum health and the best activity. Therefore, keeping an eye on the portion size is important.

Now when it comes to feeding your Coonhound, you have two options. You can buy commercially-made food from the market, or you can make their meals yourself. There are advantages and disadvantages associated with both of these options. The only thing you should keep in mind is to provide optimal nutrition to your pooch. Sometimes, you may not be able to give them the right amount of nutrition or take care of their dental health if you prepare food at home.

A good and healthy meal will give your coonhound all the essential nutrition they need without gaining extra weight. As close as your dog stays to their natural ways of living, it is better for maintaining great health. Good quality food for coonhounds should contain elements and supplements that cover all nutritional needs. It is best to feed them diets that are identical to their omnivorous ancestors.

Commercial food is considered a better diet option for your coonhound as it is both economical and conveniently available. The key is to focus on brands that offer high-quality food and provide complete nutrition, which every coonhound deserves.

Calculating the Healthy Calorie Count for Coonhound

So what’s the calorie requirement of this amazing breed? Here’s a quick look:

• 1140 – 1200 kcal – older dogs

• 1400 kcal – typical adults

• 2200 – 2400 kcal – active/ working dogs

Please note that these are estimates based on the average weight of coonhounds. Each dog is different, so it is best to talk to your vet before you make any alterations to your dog’s diet.

Usually, most Coonhounds weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. So an active adult that weighs around 65 pounds would need around 1400 kcal/day. If your coonhound is aging and his activity has reduced, then reducing the calories accordingly is crucial. It’s a better option to give your aging pooch around 1140 kcal/ day. On the other hand, if you have a very active Coonhound, you might have to increase the cal from 2218 to match up with his daily requirement.

Features To Look For in the Best Dog Food for Coonhound

There are various factors that every dog parent needs to account for before they start looking for the best dog foods for coonhounds. Here we are highlighting the most important factors to help you get started.

Choosing the Food According to Life Stage

Make sure that the dog food you pick for your coonhound is according to their specific life stage. You will find a lot of variety and under different brands that are specifically made for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs.  The nutritional value and calorie count for a specific life stage may not be suitable for another one.

For instance, puppies require more protein as compared to adult and senior dogs. Therefore choose a product that’s ideal for specific life stages. Some products contain a very balanced amount of nutrition and are suitable for all life stages. If you pick a food option like this, it becomes convenient because you can stick to the same diet over the years.

Is Natural/Organic Food Better?

Let’s first figure out the difference between natural and organic foods. Natural food contains natural ingredients like meat, whole grains, veggies, and fruits.

Organic food, on the other hand, is a healthier form of food that’s not grown with the help of fertilizers, hormones, pesticides, etc. These chemicals can cause health issues even if grown in a natural environment. Organic food, however, will be more expensive as compared to others.

How to Check for the Right Ingredients

While choosing a feed for your dog, make sure that it contains high-quality animal meat as compared to meat by-products. It is even better if there is more than one type of meat contributing to more amino acids. Whole grains are a must for a bulk formation like brown rice. Similarly, oats are better than “filler” grains. Fruits and vegetables also add a lot of vitamins/ minerals that your coonhound needs.

Avoid buying feed that contains salt, sugar, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They may cause short and long-term health problems for your dog.

Picking the Right Brand

The are many famous and reliable brands readily available in the market. If you opt for any other brand, make sure to do some research beforehand, as some manufacturers are known for producing lower-quality dog food to save cost. Such foods can be risky and life-threatening for your beloved hound.

Choosing the Preferable Formula between Dry and Wet Blends

It varies from dog to dog as to which texture they like. Some like wet blends, while some like dry kibble. You can add water to soften up the kibble or add some kibble to crunch up some homemade meals. You can even serve the wet food as a topper on the dry kibble to add more flavor and nutrition to the overall meal.

Coonhound Feeding Chart

Usually, coonhound weighs around 65 pounds, with a few pounds up and down depending on their genetic structure. Since the breed is very prone to gaining excessive weight and also loves food, a very strict eye is needed to keep a check on their weight to avoid weight-related health issues. It is best to take advice from your vet personally.

Here are some important feeding guidelines split into different life stages to help you get started.

Puppy Life Stage

The most important part is controlling your puppy’s growth. Calories should be designed and given in such a way that your pup grows naturally and fully. Speeding up the growth process can cause various health issues, especially those related to bone development. Your vet will most likely make alterations in food as your puppy grows.

Experts suggest at least feeding 22% protein and 8% fat in your Coonhound puppy’s diet for the growth and maintenance of healthy muscle and to provide for his vital needs. A reliable large-breed puppy formula will provide all the basic nutrients and will not contribute to overgrowth. If in case your pup grows too fast, there will be a risk of developing musculoskeletal problems as an adult.

Adults Life Stage

Approximately all adults require around 3 cups of food per day which is divided into portions. You should check the instructions on the back of your food bag and also consult your vet to keep a watch on the weight of your coonhound.  Experts suggest that a fully mature coonhound needs 18 % protein and 5% fat. Protein is required for building healthy muscle mass, while fat is needed by highly active dogs for energy. Some nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin are also needed for healthy joints.

Seniors Life Stage

Seniors require almost similar nutrition as puppies, with changes in the portion size to cater to their decreased activity. Again it is highly important to stay in touch with your vet regarding the same. As your coonhound enters his golden age, his activity level is likely to decrease, which might lead to his weight gain. Feed your golden boy a senior large breed formula to ensure he maintains a healthy body along with the best nutrition.

Coonhounds and Their Common Health Problems

Just like most large and heavy dogs, coonhounds can be susceptible to various health problems. Here are the most common ones to watch out for:

Hip Dysplasia

More so than other dogs, coonhounds, in particular, suffer from osteopathic diseases like hip dysplasia. Athletic dogs are prone to ill effects from dysplasia, which is a genetic condition where the hip or elbow socket fails to form correctly. With weight gain or excessive activity levels, it can pop out of place and cause a great deal of pain. The right nutrition can help keep your Coonhound’s weight under control and support muscle groups that will keep the joints supported.

Bacterial Skin Infections

Coonhounds have heavy skin folds. Due to this factor, these dogs may develop infections because of accumulated bacteria. Keep their coat clean with the right amount of healthy fats.

Bloat

Coonhounds and other deep-chested breeds are particularly vulnerable to this condition. Bloat occurs when the stomach suddenly distends and twists. Without treatment, it can become fatal. Coonhounds, like many other larger, barrel-chested breeds, are prone to bloat and would do much better on foods that can be served in smaller portion sizes without sacrificing energy throughout the day. Quality foods pack a lot more critical nutrition into smaller portion sizes so that your Coonhound can feel full and happy on several smaller meals per day.

Heart Disease

Heart diseases can be common with this breed if not taken care of with the right diet. Make sure to feed a diet that has plenty of omega-3 fatty acids to promote heart health.

Yeast Infection

Yeast infection is a result of a dog consuming too much food infected with yeast bacteria. Yeast is not necessarily bad for dogs, but excess amounts can be harmful. Most of the time, it manifests as a skin infection which causes dogs to scratch themselves tirelessly. In some cases, dogs get runny noses and red eyes as well.

Eye Diseases

Coonhounds are susceptible to inherited malformation of the eyes. Consult your vet about the right diet to help treat these issues. Coonhounds are prone to cataracts and retinal atrophy. Foods that support soft tissues and eyesight are good ways to help mitigate the effects of both of these disorders, although you’ll likely have to seek vet treatment in the long run. Make sure the food you offer your beloved hound has plenty of vitamins and antioxidants to support overall eye health and prevent early deterioration.

Essential Nutritional Requirements You Cannot Miss

Coonhounds require nutrition that’s above average since they belong to the large breed category. Their big bodies portray high energy levels, and they regularly need adequate exercise and activity. Most Coonhounds benefit from a high-protein diet, especially if they are very active. Shown below is a list of the typical nutritional requirements of a Coonhound.

Protein

Your adult Coonhound dog needs a minimum of 18% protein in his diet for daily maintenance. Pregnant/nursing dogs and puppies need a minimum of 22% protein in their diets. Some dog foods that are readily available in the market today may have higher protein percentages than these levels, but controlling the protein content is equally important. High protein sounds great, but if your dog is getting more protein than his body needs, he will excrete the excess in his urine. In that case, controlling the portion size of your dog according to his needs is essential.

Carbs

Though Coonhounds can most likely live on their ancestral diet – i.e., the meat of the prey that they hunted – they can still benefit from carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates are important for keeping your dog’s glucose levels steady so he can avoid blood sugar spikes after meals. Carbohydrates can also help prevent your dog from feeling hungry between meals.

Fats

Just like any other dog breed, Coonhounds need a maximum of 16% of fat in their food in order to survive. This fat should come from animal-based sources only as this kind is considered comparatively healthier for them. However, some dogs could be allergic to animal fats, and in that case, replacing them with healthy oils can work well. Healthy fats are most important for senior Coonhounds, who need such nutrients to stay active and mobile.

Fiber

Fiber can be either soluble or insoluble. You will often see soluble fiber on a dog food ingredient list in the form of chicory, beet pulp, and inulin. This kind of fiber draws more water into your dog’s digestive system, turning stomach liquids to gel form and slowing the digestive process. Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, adds bulk to the digestive matter and helps speed digestion.

Most kibble today have somewhere between 3% and 6% fiber. If your Coonhound is having loose stools, it could be because there is too much fiber in the food for his system. You can try changing to a food that has less of this content and see if it solves the problem.

Minerals and Vitamins

An average adult Coonhound needs about 11% minerals and vitamins in a dry food form. However, unlike other breeds, coonhounds do not need much of this. Therefore, excess vitamins will not be absorbed by their bodies and will end up as waste. So unless your dog has a specific vitamin deficiency, this should be more than enough for your pet.

What Not to Feed Your Coonhound

Cheap fillers are unnecessary and bad for your dog’s health. Fillers are only empty calories and can cause your dog to gain weight. Avoid foods that have cheap fillers anywhere in the ingredients list.

Artificial flavors encourage your coonhound to eat faster and can cause bloating. It’s included in the diet to fool you into thinking that the food is healthier or to unify the colors together. Avoid it completely!

Unfortunately, many dogs are allergic to grains and gluten, but the common substitutes can lead to an enlarged heart. Researchers found a tentative connection between legumes and a condition called Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Until we know more, consider avoiding these ingredients altogether or at least avoiding foods that list them in the first two or three positions on the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any specific dietary requirements for a Coonhound?

Regardless of the type of coonhound you own, these are fairly large breed dogs weighing anywhere from 50 to 100 pounds and require a high-quality diet that they could thrive on. As far as their specific dietary requirements are concerned, protein is the most important nutrient because it works as the basic foundation for growth and muscle maintenance.

Fat is equally important in a coonhound’s diet to provide your dog with a healthy energy that keeps them going. Both of these nutrients should come from high-quality animal-based sources to make it easier for them to consume and digest.

Does my Coonhound prefer dry food or canned food?

This varies from one dog to another. Some coonhounds prefer gobbling up dry kibble, while others like the wet consistency of their food. You can even use canned food as a food topper for dry kibble to make the meals more delicious and nutritionally rich. Follow your dog’s preference.

Can I feed a grain-inclusive diet to my Coonhound?

Coonhounds are susceptible to digestive sensitivities and may not react too well to a grain-inclusive diet. However, this is quite subjective too. Some dogs can do well with grains, and feeding a grain-inclusive diet will be trouble-free. When changing your pooch’s diet or introducing something new, always observe your dog’s reaction to the food. This way, you will be able to decide whether to feed him a grain-inclusive diet or not.

Should I exclusively feed a grain-free diet to my Coonhound?

Preferably, yes. As mentioned above, coonhounds may have food-related sensitivities, and a grain-inclusive diet could trigger health problems. In that case, feeding an exclusive grain-free food with a limited-ingredient diet option is a good idea.

Is my Coonhound susceptible to stomach problems?

Unfortunately, all types of coonhounds are susceptible to stomach problems. However, you can control it with the right kind of diet and avoid triggering health problems.

What are the exercise requirements of my Coonhound?

These active, large dogs belong to the sporting category and require at least 60 minutes of daily exercise. Added activities and playtime will be a plus.

What are the common health problems that my Coonhound is susceptible to?

The breed has long and heavy ears and can be prone to ear problems such as ear mites, infections, and hematoma (blood blister on the ears). The deep-chested coonhounds are also at a higher risk for developing bloat and other gastrointestinal problems. Some dogs may even show symptoms of heart problems, hip dysplasia, and skin sensitivities.

Does my Coonhound require a lot of grooming?

Coonhounds require regular brushing to keep clean and prevent hair knots. Also, they are easy to groom but can shed a lot. Therefore, it is important to use a rubber curry brush or a hound mitt a few times a week to remove dead hair. Occasional bathing is enough for coonhounds.

Can my Coonhound develop ear problems?

The pendulous shape of coonhounds’ ears is the main reason why they may develop various ear problems. The accumulated moisture in the ear can cause bacteria, which leads to ear infections, ear mites, and hematoma. The key is to keep your hound’s ears dry and clean them regularly.

Should I add additional supplementation to my Coonhound’s diet?

It is wiser if you choose a diet that already contains all the supplementation required by your pooch. These dogs thrive on high levels of protein and healthy fats. Other nutritional supplementations are probiotics, prebiotics, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids that contribute to the overall health of your pooch.

Are omega fatty acids essential for my Coonhound’s diet?

Coonhounds have a thick layer of fur and require regular brushing to stay groomed. However, just cleaning and brushing your pooch’s fur won’t guarantee fur quality and skin health. That’s where omega fatty acids play their role. Diets that are rich in supplemental omegas are great for your hound’s exterior care.

Is the Coonhound regarded as an extra-large breed?

The average weight of different types of coonhounds falls between 50 and 100 pounds. Only in rare cases, a coonhound will exceed the 100lb limit. Therefore, they’re regarded as large breeds, not giants.

How much should I feed my Coonhound puppy?

The exact amount of food that you should feed your coonhound puppy will depend on factors like his age, activity level, and weight. These are actually the fundamental factors that would help you decide the right amount of food for all kinds of dogs. Feeding your little coonhound anywhere between 3-5 cups of food per day sounds great.

How much should I feed my adult Coonhound?

You can follow the same rule for calculating the calorie intake of your adult coonhound. Always account for their activity level and health condition before coming to a conclusion. Generally, your adult coonhound will require calories between 1350 and 1550 calories in a day, which can be divided into 2-3 meals.

What are the common food sensitivity symptoms I need to watch out for?

Food sensitivity symptoms may range from excessive flatulence, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, discomfort or pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

What nutrients should I look out for when picking the right food for my Coonhound?

The two most important nutrients that you cannot ignore are protein and fats. Coonhounds are large breed dogs that require optimal levels of animal-based protein and healthy fats in their diet for proper growth and development and for maintaining an active lifestyle. Other important nutrients include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint and bone health, omega fatty acids for healthy skin, antioxidants for strong immunity, and amino acids and probiotics for healthy digestion.

How big can I expect my Coonhound to grow?

An adult male can grow as tall as 27 inches and 100 pounds in weight. Females can grow up to 80 pounds and up to 25 inches in height.

Is Coonhound a friendly dog?

Coonhounds have a gentle temperament, and these dogs are known for being loving and intelligent. They love spending time with their human buddy and make great family pets as they can become extremely affectionate with the people they trust. However, supervision is required to keep the breed’s energy level in control.

How do I train my Coonhound puppy?

The good part is that training a coonhound puppy isn’t very difficult. You can start with basic commands like sit, run, stand, etc., and treat your dog to appreciate her effort. You can also take your little coonhound for walks in wooded areas so they get used to the outdoors as well.

What are the most common allergens that could trigger sensitivity in my Coonhound?

Unnecessary fillers and artificial ingredients can trigger sensitivity in your coonhound. However, it is important to check the label and identify any ingredient that your pooch can be sensitive to. Chicken and beef can also work as common allergens that could trigger sensitivity in your beloved pooch. Avoid meals with grain, wheat, soy, and corn in it. And in case your dog has an extremely sensitive gut, try a limited-ingredient diet instead.

What kind of fruits and vegetables can I feed my Coonhound?

Thankfully, you can feed a range of fruits and vegetables to your coonhound to offer them a range of antioxidants and other essential nutrients. Some interesting treats can include:

• Pumpkin
• Carrots
• Peas
• Zucchini
• Brussels sprouts
• Spinach
• Cauliflower
• Sweet potato
• Broccoli
• Asparagus
• Strawberries
• Cranberries
• Blueberries
• Apple
• Watermelon

It is, however, important to remember that too much fiber can upset your hound’s stomach. So always feed in moderate amounts.

What food should I never feed my Coonhound?

There are many things that you should never feed your coonhound. First off, steer clear of low-quality options. Some readymade foods offer nothing but empty calories to your dog. This can also have an adverse impact on your pooch’s overall health in the long run. Also, avoid the following:

• Caffeine, coffee
• Chocolates
• Table scraps
• Raisins and grapes
• Food with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives
• Food with uncategorized by-products

Final Thoughts

When looking for the best dog foods for your coonhounds, it is important to consider the specific verifications of the type of coonhound you own. Additionally, you should never ignore the personal preferences and health concerns of your hound either. All of these factors and the information shared in this article will help you make a wise decision about picking the best and healthiest diet for your pooch.

Use the information shared here in the best interest of your precious pooch and serve a delicious meal that your tail wagger won’t stop jumping for!