American Blue Gascon Hound

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The American Blue Gascon Hound is a large and superior hunting dog breed that is capable of adapting to most harsh conditions easily than most other hunting dogs.

This large dog has a height around 25 to 28 inches and can be 90 pounds or more. It gives the impression of an agile, aristocratic, powerful and confident animal with a look of intelligence and endurance. These dogs are used to hunt big game hunter going for bear, bobcat, jaguar or mountain lion. This dogs' remarkable endurance and amazing adaptability to harsh conditions make it an excellent companion for hunting in adverse terrain and poor hunting conditions like dry canyons, swamps or high altitudes.

The dog though an specialized hunting breed, does have qualities that make it a very good family pet. This dog is not for every owner and would need a firm and confident owner.

This dog is recognized by AKC, NZKC, UKC and ANKC.

Color

As the name of the breed suggests, dominant coloring for this dog is black and blue ticked.

Coat

This breed has a short but very thick and dense coat that keeps the dog safe in adverse conditions.

Personality

Despite being an specialized hunting dog, the American Blue Gascon Hound is very gentle and affectionate with its owner and family. This loyal and faithful breed is very patient and gentle with children but can attack small animals due to its hunting background. Early age socialization with other pets in the house becomes very important for this breed. This breed is non-aggressive although can be mistaken as aggressive as they greet a guest with a howl and sniffing until satisfied. Being a working and hunting breed, this dog will challenge a not so active owner as it needs to play and go for walk almost tirelessly. It needs large space to play to bring its energy levels down and is not suitable for small houses with small yards. This dog depends largely on its strong sense of smell and can be a hazard if food and garbage are left unattended. This dog makes a great family and hunting companion specially for families who use it as hunting dog.

Care

The short and thick coat requires minimal grooming. Brushing the coat once or twice should be enough. The dog should be checked for ear and eye infections as this breed is prone to ear and eye diseases.

Training

Being a working/hunting dog, the American Blue Gascon Hound is somewhat independent in nature and can be a difficult dog to train. Positive and consistent training with a firm and confident trainer is bound to yield desired results.

Activity

This dog requires lots of physical and mental exercise. Firstly, it is best suited to house with large yard where it can play and run as it likes. It is not suitable for small houses. The dog should be taken for daily walks. It is an ideal jogging partner. Bicycling with this dog will also take care of its high energy levels. The American Blue Gascon Hound will need an active owner. Lack of exercise will make this loud barker to bark excessively and howl.