Dog · Giant Breed
Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is a large, powerful scent hound best known for its unmatched tracking ability, long ears, and loose, wrinkled skin. Despite its serious working reputation, this breed is typically gentle, affectionate, and patient with people, though it can also be independent and stubborn.
The Calculator
How old is your Bloodhound in human years?
At 1 year old
Your Bloodhound is approximately 20 in human years.
Field Notes
About the Bloodhound
Bloodhounds originated in medieval Europe, with roots tracing back to scent hounds developed by monks in Belgium and later refined in France and Britain. They were bred specifically for trailing human scent over long distances, and their extraordinary nose remains one of the most respected in the canine world. Their tracking skill has been used in search-and-rescue work and law enforcement for generations.
In temperament, Bloodhounds are usually sweet-natured, tolerant, and devoted to their families. They often do well with children and can be sociable with other dogs, but they are not always easy first-time pets because they are strong, determined, and easily distracted by smells. Training should be consistent and patient, using positive reinforcement rather than harsh correction.
Care for a Bloodhound involves more than feeding and walking. Their droopy ears should be checked and cleaned regularly, skin folds should be kept dry and clean, and owners should be prepared for drooling. Because they are large dogs with hearty appetites, portion control and weight management are important to reduce strain on joints.
Bloodhounds need daily exercise and mental stimulation, but their activity should be structured safely because they may follow a scent without regard for roads or commands. Long walks, scent games, tracking work, and securely fenced outdoor time are ideal. Puppies should avoid excessive impact exercise while growing to help protect developing bones and joints.
Temperament
Exercise Needs
moderate
Health Watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Ear infections
- Skin fold dermatitis
Grooming
Bloodhounds have a short coat that is fairly easy to maintain with regular brushing, but their ears, wrinkles, and drool-prone mouth need frequent cleaning.
Growth Curve
Bloodhound weight chart
Typical weight progression from young to adult. The tinted band marks the healthy adult range — 36–50 kg.
Nutrition, Staged
Bloodhound Feeding Guide
Stage-based portions tuned to breed energy requirements. Use as a starting point — your veterinarian tailors the final numbers.
Formative years
Young
Follow breed-specific puppy feeding guidelines
Peak years
Adult
Follow breed-specific adult feeding guidelines
Mature years
Senior
Follow breed-specific senior feeding guidelines
Questions, Answered
On the Bloodhound
Yes, Bloodhounds are often affectionate, gentle, and patient with their families, including children. Their size, strength, and stubborn streak mean they do best in homes that can provide supervision, training, and enough space for a large active dog.
Bloodhounds are better known for their deep bay than constant barking, and they may vocalize when excited, bored, or following a scent. Early training and enough physical and mental activity can help reduce nuisance noise.
Most adult Bloodhounds need daily exercise along with opportunities to use their nose, such as scent games or tracking activities. They are not hyperactive in the house when their needs are met, but without regular outlets they can become restless and difficult to manage.
Bloodhounds are intelligent, but they are independent scent hounds and may seem selective about listening, especially when an interesting smell is present. Training works best with patience, repetition, food rewards, and secure environments where they cannot wander off after a scent.
Their coat is relatively low maintenance, but overall upkeep is moderate because the ears and skin folds need regular attention. Owners should also expect drool management and routine cleaning around the face and neck.
Adjacent Breeds
