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American English Coonhound vs Bluetick Coonhound

Side-by-side comparison across all 14 AKC trait ratings, with a clear verdict on which breed fits which kind of household.

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The bottom line

American English Coonhound vs Bluetick Coonhound

People compare American English and Bluetick Coonhounds because they’re both Southern-born hunting dogs with deep voices and endless stamina, bred to tree raccoons and work through the night. On paper they look similar. same lifespan, size range, and energy levels. But if you’ve spent time around them, you know the difference isn’t just in the ticking of their coats. It’s in how they move through the world. The American English is the smoother operator. more laid-back at home, quicker to bond with strangers, and slightly easier to live with if you’re not on a hunt 24/7. They’re sociable without being pushy and will lean into your leg after a long trail, but don’t mistake mellow for lazy. They need space, time, and a reason to run. Let them get bored, and that 4/5 barking turns your backyard into a nightly concert. Blueticks are more intense. That tenacity in their temperament? It shows. They’re sharper, more focused, and a little more stubborn. trainability isn’t just about smarts, it’s about willingness, and Blueticks weigh their options. They’re also more likely to get along with other dogs, which matters if you’re running a pack or already have a pet. But their stubborn streak means first-time owners can feel outmatched. Here’s the real talk: neither belongs in a city. Not just because of the noise or space, but because their minds are wired for wide woods and cold trails. If you’re looking for a companion who thrives on routine and couch time, look elsewhere. But if you hunt, hike, or just love a dog that lives loud and loyal. choose the American English for a slightly easier harmony, the Bluetick if you want a sharper edge and don’t mind the challenge.

American English Coonhound
Bluetick Coonhound
23–26 in
Height
21–27 in
45–65 lb
Weight
45–80 lb
11–12 yr
Lifespan
11–12 yr
$0.8–2.0k
Puppy price
$0.8–2.0k
#175
AKC popularity
#130

Trait-by-trait

Higher bar = more of that trait. Shedding, barking, drooling, grooming flipped for readability.
Affectionate w/ Family
Good with Young Children
Good with Other Dogs
Shedding Level
Coat Grooming
Drooling Level
Good with Strangers
Playfulness
Watchdog / Protective
Adaptability
Trainability
Energy Level
Barking Level
Mental Stimulation Needs
AffectionGood w/ KidsGood w/ DogsShedding LevelGroomingDrooling LevelGood w/ StrangersPlayfulnessProtectiveAdaptabilityTrainabilityEnergy LevelBarking LevelMental Stim.
American English Coonhound Bluetick Coonhound
Overlay

Where they diverge

Shedding Level
American English Coonhound sheds less (1-point difference)
American
Coat Grooming
American English Coonhound needs less grooming (1-point difference)
American
Drooling Level
American English Coonhound drools less (1-point difference)
American
Watchdog / Protective
American English Coonhound is more protective (1-point difference)
American
Trainability
Bluetick Coonhound is easier to train (1-point difference)
Bluetick
The verdict

Choose the American English Coonhound if…

  • Active people
  • Rural homes
  • Hunters
  • You value watchdog / protectiveAmerican English Coonhound scores noticeably higher.

Choose the Bluetick Coonhound if…

  • Active people
  • Hunters
  • Rural homes
  • You value shedding levelBluetick Coonhound scores higher here.
American English Coonhound Owner’s Guide
Everything you need before bringing your American English Coonhound home.
Breed variants, breeder red flags, and what to ask
First-week checklist and daily schedules by age
Training timeline from 8 weeks to adulthood
Health screenings, emergency card, and feeding portions
Grooming schedule, first-year costs, and what nobody tells you
Get Your Guide
Bluetick Coonhound Owner’s Guide
Everything you need before bringing your Bluetick Coonhound home.
Breed variants, breeder red flags, and what to ask
First-week checklist and daily schedules by age
Training timeline from 8 weeks to adulthood
Health screenings, emergency card, and feeding portions
Grooming schedule, first-year costs, and what nobody tells you
Get Your Guide

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