Why the Plott Hound Is One of the Hardest Dogs to Own
The Plott Hound, North Carolina's official state dog, is a large, muscular scent hound bred for tracking and hunting big game such as bears and wild boars. Although loyal and affectionate with family, the breed poses several challenges that make it one of the hardest dogs to own for the average pet owner.
History and Origin
The origins of the Plott Hound date back to 1750 when Johannes George Plott brought five Hanoverian Hounds from Germany to North Carolina. His family bred the dogs to adapt to the rugged Appalachian terrain, refining them into exceptional hunting companions known for stamina, courage, and an unyielding hunting drive.
Physical Characteristics
- Height: 20–25 inches (males), 20–23 inches (females)
- Weight: 50–60 pounds (males), 40–55 pounds (females)
- Coat: Short, smooth, and glossy; comes in various brindle shades or solid black
- Distinctive Sound: A high-pitched, baying bark used to alert hunters
They have a powerful, athletic build designed for endurance over long hunts in difficult terrain.
Temperament and Behavior
The Plott Hound is loyal, intelligent, alert, and protective. Though gentle with family members, especially children, they require early socialization and patient, consistent training. Common temperament traits include:
- High energy levels, requiring daily vigorous exercise
- Strong prey drive, which can make them hard to manage near small pets
- Wary of strangers, making socialization essential
- Independence and stubbornness that challenge inexperienced owners
Living Requirements
Owning a Plott Hound demands commitment. They are not well-suited for apartment living and thrive in environments where they can run freely—but safely.
Key needs:
- At least 1–2 hours of vigorous daily exercise
- Secure containment due to strong scent-trailing instincts and tendency to wander
- Access to mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys and scent work
Training Challenges
Due to their intelligence and instinctual behaviors, Plott Hounds can be difficult to train. Key points to consider:
- They respond best to positive reinforcement
- Early obedience training is essential
- Consistency and patience are vital because of their independent nature
- They may become destructive or vocal without adequate engagement
Health and Care
The Plott Hound is a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Nonetheless, there are some health risks to be aware of:
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections (due to pendant ears)
- Bloat and gastric torsion
Grooming needs are minimal, thanks to their short, glossy coat. Weekly brushing and regular ear cleaning are usually sufficient.
Feeding and Nutrition
The breed's high activity level demands a premium-quality diet tailored to their size and energy output. Owners should monitor weight gain and avoid overfeeding.
Why They’re Difficult Dogs to Own
Despite their many admirable traits, Plott Hounds are not ideal for every household. Their large exercise demands, prey-driven instincts, and training challenges require a dedicated, experienced, and active owner.
The breed is especially difficult for:
- First-time dog owners
- People with sedentary lifestyles
- Families without access to large, secure outdoor spaces
Conclusion
For the right owner, the Plott Hound is a deeply loving, loyal, and tireless companion. However, without adequate time, space, and training, they can become stubborn, noisy, and destructive pets—making them one of the hardest breeds to own.
