Bloodhound Colors & Coat Guide

All recognized Bloodhound colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.

Bloodhound Colors Overview

Bloodhound coat colors are governed by a complex interplay of genetics. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..

Understanding which colors are standard versus non-standard helps buyers make informed decisions. Color should never be the primary selection criterion—health and temperament come first.

Recognized Colors

Black and Tan Standard

Liver and Tan Standard

Red Standard

Color & Price Impact

Standard colors	Normal pricing ($800–$1500)
Rare/unusual colors	Premium pricing (+$450–$750)

Coat Genetics

Bloodhound coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.

DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..

Rare vs Standard Colors

Among Bloodhounds, the standard colors (Black and Tan, Liver and Tan, Red) are most common. With 3 recognized colors, variety exists even within the standard palette. Buyers should be cautious—extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.

Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..

Do Bloodhound Colors Change with Age?

Bloodhound puppies often look quite different from their adult selves. With 3 recognized color varieties, coat color may lighten, darken, or develop new markings during the transition from puppy to adult coat, typically between 4 and 12 months. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..

Controversial Colors

Not all Bloodhound colors are created equal in the eyes of breed standards. The 3 recognized colors have well-understood genetics, but colors marketed as 'exotic' or 'designer' may fall outside breed standards and can sometimes be linked to health issues. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bloodhound comes in Black and Tan, Liver and Tan, Red. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..

Rarity depends on genetics. Non-standard colors may be less common but should not be prioritized over health and temperament. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..

As a Bloodhound puppy matures from puppyhood to adulthood (4–12 months), coat color can shift. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes.. Since the Bloodhound comes in 3 recognized color varieties, the extent of change depends on the specific color genetics involved.

In most cases, coat color does not affect health. However, certain color genes (such as merle or extreme white) can carry health implications in some breeds. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..

Popularity among Bloodhound colors tends to track with the breed standard. The standard recognizes Black and Tan, Liver and Tan, Red as acceptable colors. Color options are limited for this breed, which simplifies the selection process. Limited to three recognized color patterns, all featuring rich tan markings; the depth of color is influenced by multiple genes..