The Plott Hound stands out as one of America’s most unique hunting dogs, but many people wonder about its genetic makeup and breeding history.
Unlike many modern dog breeds that result from mixing multiple breeds, the Plott Hound descends primarily from German Hanover Hounds brought to America in the 1750s by the Plott family, with minimal crossbreeding over centuries.
This German-American heritage makes the Plott Hound different from other coonhounds you might know. While most American hounds trace back to English Foxhounds, the Plott’s bloodline remained relatively pure through careful breeding by the Plott family in North Carolina’s mountains.
Understanding what breeds make up your Plott Hound helps explain why these dogs have such distinctive traits compared to other hounds.
You’ll discover how their unique genetic background shaped their hunting abilities, temperament, and physical characteristics that make them North Carolina’s official state dog.
Origins of Plott Hound
The Plott Hound comes from a unique background that sets it apart from other American hunting dogs. Johannes Georg Plott, a German immigrant, brought the breed’s ancestors to America in the mid-1700s.
He carried five Hanover Hounds from Germany when he settled in western North Carolina. These dogs were originally used for boar hunting in the German forests.
Key Ancestral Breeds
The Plott Hound developed from these primary bloodlines:
- Hanoverian Hounds (primary foundation)
- German boar hunting dogs
- Later crosses with local mountain dogs
What Makes Plotts Different
Unlike other American coonhounds, Plott Hounds don’t trace back to English Foxhounds. This makes them stand out among the six recognized coonhound breeds.
The Plott family continued breeding these dogs for over 200 years. They kept the bloodline pure while adapting the dogs for American hunting conditions.
Geographic Development
Western North Carolina’s mountains became the breed’s home. The rugged terrain shaped the Plott’s hunting style and physical traits.
Von Plott and John Plott, great-great grandsons of Johannes, continued developing the breed into the 1950s. They maintained the family’s breeding traditions while refining the dogs’ abilities.
The breed earned recognition as North Carolina’s state dog. It remains one of only four dog breeds developed entirely in America.
Your Plott Hound carries this rich German heritage combined with American mountain breeding traditions.
What Breeds Make Plott Hound?
The Plott Hound comes from German Hanover Hounds that Johannes Plott brought to America in the 1750s. He carried five of these hunting dogs from Germany to North Carolina.
Johannes Plott bred his original Hanover Hounds with local dogs in the Appalachian Mountains. This mixing created the Plott Hound breed you know today.
Primary Foundation Breeds:
- German Hanover Hounds (main ancestry)
- Local American hunting dogs
- Regional mountain dogs
The Hanover Hounds gave the Plott their strong scenting ability and hunting drive. These German dogs were already skilled at tracking large game like wild boar.
Local American dogs added toughness and adaptation to the rough mountain terrain. They helped the breed handle the harsh North Carolina wilderness better.
Key Traits from Each Breed:
| Original Breed | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Hanover Hounds | Scenting ability, hunting instinct |
| Local Dogs | Mountain endurance, climate adaptation |
The Plott family kept careful breeding records for over 200 years. They focused on maintaining the best hunting traits while improving the dogs’ stamina.
Unlike other American hounds, Plotts have no English Foxhound in their bloodline. This makes them unique among coonhound breeds.
The careful selection process created a dog with the German Hanover’s nose and the American mountain dog’s toughness. Your Plott Hound carries this mixed heritage in every hunt.
Characteristics of Plott Hound
Plott Hounds are medium to large-sized dogs that typically weigh between 40-75 pounds. Males are usually larger than females.
Physical Appearance
These dogs have a distinctive short, shiny coat that comes mainly in brindle patterns. The brindle creates beautiful striped markings in various shades.
Their ears are medium-length and hang down close to their head. You’ll notice their eyes are typically brown or hazel in color.
Key Physical Features:
- Athletic, muscular build
- Clean skin without excess folds or droopiness
- Strong, sturdy legs built for endurance
- Deep chest for stamina during hunts
Temperament Traits
Plott Hounds show two distinct personalities. At home, they’re calm and gentle companions who enjoy family time.
When working or hunting, they become fearless and determined. Their scenting abilities are exceptional for tracking game.
Behavioral Characteristics:
| At Home | While Working |
|---|---|
| Mellow and relaxed | Bold and fearless |
| Gentle with family | Relentless tracker |
| Loyal companion | Highly focused |
Vocal Nature
These dogs are naturally vocal with a steady bark. You should expect regular barking, especially when they detect scents or sounds.
Exercise Needs
Plott Hounds require significant daily exercise due to their hunting background. They need both physical activity and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
