Bloodhound

Characteristics

About the Bloodhound

One of the oldest scent hound breeds, Bloodhounds descend from hounds kept by monks at the Saint-Hubert Monastery in Belgium over a thousand years ago.. As of 2026, they hold the #42 position in the American Kennel Club's popularity rankings.

Standing 23 to 27 inches tall and weighing 80 to 110 pounds, the Bloodhound is a large-sized dog. Possesses approximately 300 million scent receptors, the most of any breed, and their trailing results are admissible as evidence in a court of law. They are well-suited to owners who can provide the exercise, training, and companionship this breed thrives on.

Widely used by law enforcement and search-and-rescue teams for trailing missing persons and fugitives; also a beloved if slobbery companion..

History

One of the oldest scent hound breeds, Bloodhounds descend from hounds kept by monks at the Saint-Hubert Monastery in Belgium over a thousand years ago.. Brought to England by William the Conqueror in 1066, Bloodhounds have been used by law enforcement for tracking since the early 1800s..

Widely used by law enforcement and search-and-rescue teams for trailing missing persons and fugitives; also a beloved if slobbery companion..

Common Health Issues

Complete health guide →

Similar Breeds

Compare Bloodhound

Is the Bloodhound Right for You?

Choosing the right dog breed is one of the most important decisions a future owner can make. The Bloodhound is a large-sized breed belonging to the Hound group, which shapes much of its daily behavior and needs. Here is an honest assessment based on key traits to help you decide if this breed fits your lifestyle.

Energy and exercise: The Bloodhound has moderate energy levels, needing around 30–45 minutes of daily exercise. A combination of walks and play sessions will keep this breed content. They adapt reasonably well to different activity levels without becoming hyperactive or overly lethargic.

Living space: With an apartment friendliness rating of 1/5, the Bloodhound is not well-suited for small living spaces. This breed does best in a home with a securely fenced yard and ample room to move. Apartment living may lead to behavioral problems unless the owner is extremely committed to daily outdoor exercise.

Children and family: Scoring 4/5 with children, the Bloodhound is an excellent family companion. They tend to be patient, gentle, and tolerant of the unpredictable behavior of young children. Supervision is always recommended, but this breed naturally gravitates toward being protective and affectionate with kids.

Grooming commitment: Grooming needs are moderate at 3/5. The Bloodhound benefits from brushing 2–3 times per week and occasional professional grooming. Shedding is manageable with regular maintenance, and grooming costs average $44–70/month.

Ownership Cost Summary

Before bringing a Bloodhound home, it is critical to understand the full financial commitment over their 10–12 year lifespan. The initial purchase price of $800–$1500 is only the beginning.

The first year is the most expensive, totaling approximately $4,702. This includes the purchase price, initial veterinary visits, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, supplies (crate, bed, bowls, leash), and early training classes. Many owners underestimate this initial outlay and find themselves financially stressed within the first few months.

Ongoing monthly costs average $226, broken down as follows: food ($85–127/mo), grooming ($44–70/mo), insurance ($58–82/mo), with annual costs for veterinary care ($398–895/yr) and supplies ($236–541/yr). As a large breed, the Bloodhound costs more for food, medication dosing, and larger equipment than smaller dogs.

Over a full 10–12 year lifespan, total ownership costs typically reach $15,000–$30,000+ depending on health, not including emergency veterinary care which can add $2,000–$10,000 over the dog's lifetime. Pet insurance at $58–82/month is strongly recommended to manage unexpected health expenses.

Hidden costs often overlooked: Many prospective Bloodhound owners fail to budget for training classes ($150–$500 for basic obedience), boarding or pet sitting during vacations ($30–$75/night), dog-proofing the home ($100–$300), replacement of chewed items during puppyhood, and potential property damage. Additionally, renters may face pet deposits ($200–$500) and monthly pet rent ($25–$75). Factor these real-world costs into your decision to ensure the Bloodhound fits your financial situation comfortably without requiring sacrifices in the quality of care you can provide.

Breed Traits Explained

The Bloodhound belongs to the Hound group, which historically means these dogs were bred to hunt using keen eyesight or an exceptional sense of smell. Hound breeds can be independent-minded and may follow a scent or sight rather than listening to commands. They require patience in training and secure containment to prevent them from wandering.

With a family friendliness score of 4/5, intelligence at 4/5, and shedding rated 3/5, the Bloodhound presents a specific profile that works best for owners who understand and appreciate these characteristics. Their exercise needs (4/5) and barking tendency (4/5) should factor heavily into your decision, especially if you live in close proximity to neighbors or have limited outdoor space.

Intelligence and engagement: With intelligence rated 4/5, the Bloodhound is a quick learner that thrives on mental challenges. This high intelligence means they need puzzle toys, training sessions, and varied activities to prevent boredom. An under-stimulated Bloodhound may develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or escape attempts. The upside is that they pick up new commands quickly and excel in activities like obedience, agility, or nosework.

Shedding and home cleanliness: Moderate shedding (3/5) means some hair around the home but nothing unmanageable. Weekly brushing keeps the coat healthy and minimizes excess shedding. Seasonal increases in shedding are normal and can be managed with more frequent grooming during transition periods.

Bloodhound Quick Decision Guide

Making an informed decision about the Bloodhound requires weighing all factors together. Here is a consolidated assessment to help you decide confidently whether this breed matches your situation.

You will love the Bloodhound if: You maintain moderate daily routines with regular walks and occasional adventures, have children or plan to start a family, have adequate space with outdoor access, and prefer lower-maintenance coat care. The Bloodhound's hound heritage brings specific qualities that dedicated owners find deeply rewarding.

Consider a different breed if: You need a dog for extreme athletic activities, cannot tolerate frequent vocalization, or if your living situation cannot accommodate a large breed comfortably. Being honest about these factors prevents rehoming situations that are stressful for both dog and owner.

Next steps: If the Bloodhound seems like a good match, explore our detailed sub-pages on lifespan, cost, temperament, and health for deeper information. Connect with Bloodhound owners through breed clubs and online communities to hear firsthand experiences. If possible, spend time with Bloodhounds before committing - attending dog shows, visiting breed-specific meetups, or fostering through a rescue organization. Use our Puppy Weight Calculator and Dog Age Calculator for practical planning, and review our expert guides for training, nutrition, and health care advice tailored to all breeds and life stages.