Redbone Coonhound Colors & Coat Guide

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

Redbone Coonhound Colors Overview

Redbone Coonhound coat colors are governed by a complex interplay of genetics. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color..

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

Red Standard

Dark Red Standard

Color & Price Impact

Standard colors	Normal pricing ($600–$1200)
Rare/unusual colors	Premium pricing (+$360–$600)

Coat Genetics

Color genetics in Redbone Coonhounds involve multiple loci working together. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color..

Key genetic loci include E (controls whether pigment is expressed), A (pattern distribution), K (solid vs. patterned), and B (black vs. brown base). DNA testing allows breeders to predict litter colors accurately.

Rare vs Standard Colors

Rarity in Redbone Coonhound colors typically reflects recessive genetics rather than desirability. The breed offers 2 color varieties, with standard colors including Red, Dark Red. While unusual colors may be visually striking, they sometimes correlate with health concerns or breeding shortcuts.

A reputable Redbone Coonhound breeder will never compromise health testing (for Hip Dysplasia and other conditions) to produce trendy colors. Be skeptical of breeders who market 'rare' colors at prices well above the $600–$1200 standard range.

Do Redbone Coonhound Colors Change with Age?

As your Redbone Coonhound puppy matures toward its adult weight of 45–70 lbs, expect their coat to change too. Most puppies undergo a coat transition between 4 and 12 months that can alter color depth, pattern visibility, and overall appearance. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color..

Controversial Colors

Not all Redbone Coonhound colors are created equal in the eyes of breed standards. The 2 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. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color..

Frequently Asked Questions

The Redbone Coonhound comes in Red, Dark Red. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color..

Rarity depends on genetics. Non-standard colors may be less common but should not be prioritized over health and temperament. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color..

Yes, many Redbone Coonhound puppies experience color changes between 4 and 12 months as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color.. Standard colors like Red, Dark Red are generally stable by 12 months.

For the Redbone Coonhound, standard colors have no known health associations. Some non-standard colors in certain breeds can be linked to deafness, eye problems, or skin sensitivity. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color..

Popularity among Redbone Coonhound colors tends to track with the breed standard. The standard recognizes Red, Dark Red as acceptable colors. Color options are limited for this breed, which simplifies the selection process. The uniform red color is produced by recessive red genes; the breed is one of the few that comes in essentially a single color..