With the sagging jowls and long droopy ears, the Black and Tan Coonhound can have a rather forlorn look, especially when coupled with their signature mournful howl. It can leave one wondering just what exactly a Coonhound looks like when it is happy. The truth is, as long as it is getting the right amount of exercise and mental stimulation, the Black and Tan Coonhound will always have a fairly laid back, happy go lucky disposition. They like to get out and go but are just as happy to spread out on the living room floor while their owner catches a little TV as the evening unwinds.
When it comes to exercise and mental stimulation, the Black and Tan Coonhound is a breed that needs plenty of it. It not only promotes all round health, it is what helps all breeds of dog live longer, fuller lives. The happy, properly exercised Black and Tan Coonhound is not anxious and does not snap. Though they can be wary of strangers, a happy Coonhound is never overly aggressive and adjusts smoothly to new elements in its environment. The happy Coonhound is neither overly shy, nor do they bark or dig excessively. The root of these problems is often based on anxiety, requiring owners to take steps to ease the dog's apprehensions. The happy Black and Tan Coonhound knows he or she can count on their owner at all times.
Other traits of the happy Black and Tan Coonhound is a dog with clear brown or hazel eyes and a classic mischievous twinkle. They are renowned for their cold noses, warm hearts and booming barks. Unless hunting, the happy Coonhound carries its head up; the tail is never between the legs. Something else that will keep the breed in high spirits is an owner who makes ear care a standard element of regular care. Because the heavy droopy ears of the Black and Tan Coonhound often prevent a natural airflow, the breed is somewhat susceptible to ear infections. Checking the ears every other day makes for a contented Coonhound.
The happy Coonhound is one that has a balance of good exercise and nutrition and stays at a healthy weight. Their stool is large but firm; never loose, runny or watery. The quality nutrition also results in good muscle tone and a healthy shiny coat. A happy Coonhound is never skinny, showing the ribs or losing hair in patches. These are signs of deficiencies that require a trip to the vet. There are outgoing Coonhounds and the more reserved Coonhounds, silly Coonhounds and serious Coonhounds, each exhibiting their own happiness in their own way. A happy dog may be one that has a balance of all the aforementioned things but the happiest Black and Tan Coonhound is one that spends significant time with his or her owner.
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