Bloodhound Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

Mandatory tests include: Hip X-rays (OFA or PennHIP), Elbow X-rays (OFA) - both critical for this giant breed. Annual eye examination (CERF/OFA) - check for ectropion/entropion. Highly recommended: Cardiac evaluation, thyroid panel, consider prophylactic gastropexy before breeding due to extreme bloat risk.

Bloat (GDV) is a LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY in Bloodhounds due to their deep chest. Prevention is critical: Feed 2-3 small meals daily (never one large meal), no exercise 1 hour before/after eating, consider prophylactic gastropexy surgery (stomach tacking), use elevated feeders cautiously (controversial), avoid stress during feeding. ALL puppy buyers MUST be educated about bloat symptoms: distended abdomen, unsuccessful vomiting attempts, restlessness, drooling. Immediate veterinary care saves lives!

Yes - Bloodhounds have approximately 300 million scent receptors (humans have 5 million, most dogs have 125-220 million). Their wrinkles and long ears trap scent particles, creating the world's best tracking ability. They can follow trails over 300 hours old and their scent evidence is legally admissible in court. When breeding, preserve this ability through: Early scent training (3 weeks old), selecting parents with proven tracking drive, maintaining proper wrinkle and ear conformation, avoiding extreme features that hinder function.

Bloodhounds commonly experience: ECTROPION - lower eyelids roll outward, exposing eye tissue, causing irritation and infections. ENTROPION - eyelids roll inward, eyelashes scratch cornea, causing pain and ulcers. Both conditions are hereditary and require annual CERF/OFA eye exams before breeding. Mild cases managed with eye drops, severe cases need surgery. Select breeding stock with proper eye conformation - avoid extreme droopy eyes that compromise health. Cherry eye (prolapsed third eyelid gland) also occurs.

Those magnificent long ears trap moisture, creating infection risk. Prevention: Weekly ear cleaning with veterinary-approved solution, dry ears thoroughly after swimming/bathing, check for redness, odor, or discharge daily. SKIN FOLD DERMATITIS occurs in facial wrinkles and dewlap. Daily cleaning routine: Gently clean wrinkles with damp cloth, dry thoroughly (moisture causes infections), apply cornstarch or medicated powder if needed, monitor for redness or odor. Screen breeding stock for moderate wrinkles - extreme wrinkles increase health issues.

Bloodhounds typically have large litters of 8-10 puppies (range 6-12). Whelping concerns include: Large puppy size can cause dystocia (difficult birth), C-sections sometimes necessary, high energy demands on dam with large litters. Breeding recommendations: Females no more than once yearly, maximum 3 litters lifetime, minimum 18 months between litters for recovery, monitor closely during whelping, have emergency vet on standby, ensure dam has excellent nutrition during pregnancy/nursing.

Bloodhounds are CHAMPION DROOLERS - it's not a flaw, it's a feature! Their loose lips and jowls produce significant slobber, especially: After drinking (water everywhere!), when excited or anticipating food, during exercise, in hot weather. Prepare buyers with: Drool towels in every room, waterproof furniture covers, regular face/wrinkle cleaning, acceptance that walls will have drool art! This is NON-NEGOTIABLE - if buyers can't handle drool, Bloodhounds aren't for them. Include drool management tips in puppy packets.

Yes! Bloodhounds are the ONLY breed whose tracking evidence is admissible in virtually all U.S. courts. Their scenting ability is scientifically proven and legally recognized. Requirements for legal tracking: Proper training documentation, handler certification, chain of evidence procedures, documented trail age and conditions. This unique legal status makes Bloodhounds invaluable for law enforcement and search/rescue. When breeding, preserve this working ability through temperament testing and early scent training.

Bloodhounds WILL follow their nose - secure fencing is MANDATORY! Requirements: Minimum 6-foot fence (they're tall!), secure gates with locks, check for digging spots, NEVER off-leash in unfenced areas. Exercise needs: Moderate to high energy, 2+ hours daily exercise for adults, mental stimulation through scent games, avoid intense exercise in puppies (joint protection). Their single-minded tracking drive means they'll ignore commands when on a scent. Educate all buyers about escape risks and GPS tracker collars.

Bloodhounds are wonderful but NOT for beginners! Challenges include: SIZE - 80-110 lbs of determined dog, INDEPENDENCE - bred to work alone, won't always obey, MAINTENANCE - daily wrinkle/ear cleaning, significant drooling, HEALTH RISKS - bloat can be fatal without quick action, ESCAPE ARTISTS - will follow scents for miles, TRAINING - stubborn, need patient positive methods, EXPENSE - large dog food costs, potential surgery needs. Screen buyers carefully - they need experience with large breeds, secure yards, and commitment to daily care routines.