Hound dogs are incredibly brave and resilient. Their reputation as hunters is well deserved, however, it wasn’t always so. The Plott hound developed from a line of farm dogs known as the Old Southern Dog, and was initially used to hunt small game such as raccoon, possum, and bear. Later their use became limited to hunting deer and boar when farmers needed help controlling the wild hogs that were damaging their property.

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Aro... Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around

If someone told you there was a hound that tracked animals without a scent, you would probably call that person crazy. Plott hounds are not normal hounds. Though they do use their nose, they get the majority of their prey using other senses: hearing and sight. These senses are used to track their prey until they have the right distance between them and their quarry to begin the chase.

Plott hounds are amazing hunters. They have a keen sense of smell, excellent listening skills and sharp power of vision to spot the prey. Their large paws get them through the rugged terrain where many other dogs would struggle. Plott hounds are also great swimmers and are able to retrieve their prey from the water. Hunters love these dogs because they can track wounded animals and wait for them to stop moving before attacking .

Plott hounds are friendly dogs, with a stable temperament and comfortably in their own skin. They bond well with children and strangers alike, but can be quite protective of their territory and master if either is threatened. The only issues with this breed come when an owner has not properly socialized and trained them as puppies so they’re left fearful or dominant over other dogs or people. When given proper training, they’re excellent around kids, playmates and everyone else they meet while out on a walk or run.