The Plott Hound: A Hunter's Guide to This Versatile Breed For the serious hunter looking for a dog with grit, stamina, and brains, the Plott Hound stands out. Bred for big game, these dogs are more than just trackers; they're partners in the field. What Does a Plott Hound Hunt? Big Game Specialists: Plott Hounds are legendary for their ability to track and bay bear, boar, and even mountain lion. Versatile Hunters: They can also be used effectively on raccoon, deer, and other smaller game. Scent Tracking: Their strong noses and determination make them excellent for following both fresh and cold trails. Where You'll Find Plott Hounds Hunting United States: Primarily in the Appalachian region (North Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia), where their heritage is strongest. Canada: Increasingly popular for bear and boar hunting in forested areas. Europe: Emerging as a breed of interest for hunters in countries with wild boar populations (Germany, France). Plott Hound Characteristics and Care Temperament: Courageous, intelligent, and loyal. They form strong bonds with their handlers but can be independent thinkers in the field. Physical Needs: High energy! Plott Hounds need plenty of exercise, especially when not actively hunting. Grooming: Minimal. Their short, glossy coat requires occasional brushing. Health: Generally healthy, but be aware of potential for hip dysplasia and bloat. Training a Plott Hound for Hunting Early Socialization: Expose your Plott Hound to a variety of people, places, and sounds from a young age. Obedience First: A solid foundation in basic commands (sit, stay, come) is essential before introducing hunting-specific training. Scent Work: Start with simple scent-tracking games in the yard. Gradually increase the difficulty and length of the trails. Introduce Game: Supervised exposure to the scent and sight of the game you intend to hunt is crucial. Use controlled scenarios to teach them how to track and bay appropriately. Essential Training Exercises Drag Rag: Drag a scent-soaked rag (e.g., with boar scent) and have the dog track it. Gradually increase the distance and complexity. Live Find: If possible, work with a captive animal (e.g., a boar in a pen) to allow the dog to practice baying and holding. Always prioritize the animal's safety. Recall Training: A reliable recall is vital for safety in the field. Use positive reinforcement and gradually increase the distance and distractions. Plott Hound Hunting Tactics Aggressive Tracking: Plott Hounds are known for their tenacious tracking ability, often pushing through dense cover. Loud, Distinctive Bay: Their baying style is unique and easily recognizable, allowing hunters to pinpoint their location. Courageous Baying: They will confidently hold game at bay until the hunter arrives, even when facing dangerous animals. Independent Hunting: Can hunt alone or in packs Cold Tracking: Plott hounds are known to be great cold trackers Important Considerations Voice Control: Training a Plott Hound to be quiet on command can be valuable in certain hunting situations. Respect for Game: Emphasize ethical hunting practices and ensure your dog is trained to respect the game you're pursuing. Safety First: Always prioritize the safety of your dog, yourself, and the game you're hunting. Plott Hounds are an amazing breed of dogs that provide hunters a good partner for most types of game. #plotthounds