Is the Plott Hound the Hardest Dog to Own?
The world of dog ownership is incredibly diverse, with canines of all sizes, temperaments, and needs. Among these, the
Plott Hound stands out as one of the most demanding breeds in terms of ownership. Originating in the rugged mountains of North Carolina and bred for big game hunting, the Plott Hound is a powerful, resilient, and independent breed. While loyal and affectionate, owning a Plott Hound can be challenging without the right preparation, environment, and commitment.
Origin and Purpose
The Plott Hound has a unique and rich history:
- The breed descended from Hanoverian Hounds brought from Germany in 1750 by Johannes George Plott.
- Originally developed to hunt boar and bear in the mountainous terrain.
- Maintained by the Plott family through generations, refining its physical and behavioral traits.
- Recognized as the state dog of North Carolina since 1989.
Physical Traits
Plott Hounds are built for stamina and agility:
- Height: 20–25 inches (male), 20–23 inches (female)
- Weight: 50–60 pounds (male), 40–55 pounds (female)
- Coat: Short, smooth, and glossy, often in various brindle shades or solid black
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
Their strong, muscular bodies and long, confident strides make them natural hunters. The distinctive high-pitched bark alerts hunters to treeing of prey, a key trait during hunts.
Temperament and Behavior
The Plott Hound’s deep-rooted hunting instincts influence its behavior profoundly:
- Energetic and highly active—requires substantial daily physical exertion
- Loyal and protective—especially with children and family members
- Independent and stubborn—makes training a challenge without positive reinforcement and patience
- High prey drive—not typically safe with small pets or in unsecured areas
While they can be affectionate companions, it's essential for owners to understand and respect the breed’s working heritage.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation Needs
Arguably the most demanding aspect of owning a Plott Hound is meeting its daily activity requirements:
- Minimum of one to two hours of vigorous exercise per day
- Loves running, hiking, and hunting expeditions
- Excellent for joggers or active individuals
- Thrives with mental stimulation like tracking, scent games, or agility
- Can develop behavioral problems like destructive chewing or excessive barking if bored
If you're looking for a calm, low-maintenance dog, the Plott Hound may not be a good match.
Training and Socialization
Because of its intelligence and independence, training a Plott Hound can be either highly rewarding or incredibly tough. Consider the following:
- Consistency and patience are critical for success
- Early socialization helps reduce wariness of strangers
- Requires positive reinforcement methods—harsh techniques won’t work
- Prey drive and independence demand firm, structured environments
If well trained, Plotts can coexist peacefully with children and other dogs, but it requires time and effort.
Living Environment
This breed is not ideal for apartment living or sedentary owners:
- Needs a secure, large yard to roam and play
- Must be leashed or fenced to prevent chasing after scents
- Not well-suited to households with cats or small pets
- Loud bark makes it unsuitable for noise-sensitive neighborhoods
Their protective instincts and vocalizations do, however, make them excellent
watchdogs.
Health and Grooming
The Plott Hound is generally healthy but not without a few vulnerabilities:
- Susceptible to hip dysplasia, ear infections, bloat, and gastric torsion
- Regular veterinary checkups are essential
- Pendant ears require routine cleaning to prevent infections
- Grooming is minimal—weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush is sufficient
- Moderate shedding, which increases during seasonal transitions
Providing a
quality diet, fresh water, and
portion control helps maintain optimal health and weight.
Conclusion: Is the Plott Hound Right for You?
If you’re considering adding a Plott Hound to your home, answer the following questions honestly:
- Do you live an active lifestyle?
- Can you provide consistent training and socialization?
- Do you have a fenced yard or access to safe outdoor areas?
- Are you experienced with independent breeds?
If you replied 'yes' to most or all, the Plott Hound may be your perfect adventure companion. But for passive pet lovers, the breed’s traits can quickly become overwhelming. In summary, the Plott Hound is not for everyone—but with the right approach, it makes a fiercely devoted and capable dog.
