Male vs. Female Bloodhound: 5 Key Differences

Wrinkled skin and floppy ears are their signature trademark. Originally bred as a “scent hound,” bloodhounds are not just working dogs; their temperament makes them great family pets known for their gentle nature. The first specimens brought to Europe from Constantinople were two strains in pure black or pure white. They may be one of the oldest hound breeds still in existence.

Today’s bloodhound descends from a 7th-century monk who bred them and, as a result, became known as St. Hubert’s hounds. The name “bloodhound” first appeared in 1330 and is thought to have come from being bred of noble blood. In the 14^th century, numerous English writings mentioned bloodhounds. Originally bred to track such animals as wild boar and deer, however, in the 16^th century they also began to track people. Other breeds have descended from this breed, for example, the black and tan coonhound.

Bloodhounds have been in America for over a century and are instrumental in their work with law enforcement. Their sense of smell is so precise it has been accepted as evidence in a court of law. More than any other breed, bloodhounds have 300 million scent receptors! Their long ears sweep up scents and in fact, their skin folds and drool retain them. When tracking, their skin covers their eyes protecting them from brush or other debris. But what are the differences between male and female bloodhounds? Find out the answer and more in Male vs. Female Bloodhound: 5 Key Differences!

Male vs. Female Bloodhound: 5 Key Differences

Key Differences Between Male and Female Bloodhounds

Bloodhounds make great family pets, they are patient with children and affectionate.

Size

Males are larger than females, with an average height of 25-27 inches, and weighing 90-110 pounds. Females are a bit smaller averaging 23-25 inches in height and weighing 80-100 pounds. As they are large dogs they can be challenging to transport. Indeed, make sure there is enough space to house them!

Physical Characteristics

Their incredible stamina allows them to follow a trail for hours and sometimes days. These sturdy dogs are built for the task with muscular legs and low chests. Their heads slightly taper toward their muzzle and their ears are thin, soft, long, and low on the skull. Male heads should measure 12 inches from the occipital to the end of the muzzle, and female heads should measure 11 inches or more.

Deep wrinkles are their most popular characteristic with the skin on their heads and necks loose and falling into deep folds. This is particularly prevalent on the forehead and sides of the face. Females have less pronounced wrinkles than males. Their smooth and short coats come in colors of black and tan, liver and tan, and red with no standard color pattern, but some will have black muzzles and backs with tan everywhere else. Deeply set eyes with heavy droopy lower lids add to their classic look. Eye color varies from deep hazel to yellow.

Optimal Breeding Age Range

The optimal range to breed males begins at 18-24 months and up to 6-6.5 years. For females, it’s 18 months up to 7 years.

Health

Both males and females are susceptible to the following health conditions:

Bloat is a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition and the leading cause of death in bloodhounds. Seek immediate medical assistance if your dog exhibits a swollen stomach, is restless and pacing, or unsuccessfully attempts to vomit.

Hip dysplasia is a condition due to an abnormally formed hip joint and may lead to arthritis and painful movement.

Elbow dysplasia is the same as hip dysplasia but in the elbow joint.

Ear infections: are caused by trapped debris, heat, and moisture which may result in yeast and bacterial growth. Signs to watch for include a foul odor or shaking and scratching their ears. To keep their ears clean use ear-cleaning solution for dogs and check them regularly.

Temperament

Although they can be very shy; their temperament ranges from docile and affectionate at home to stubborn and relentless when tracking. Often difficult to distract when an interesting scent is detected, indeed, males are more stubborn than females, and they can even be defiant. Males tend to be more independent than females. They are also loyal and as a result, they often choose to spend all their time at your side. Females have a calm presence; they are patient and caring. Indeed, they are more agreeable and obedient. Socialize both males and females early to improve their interactions with others.

Training

Training is important for a well-behaved and obedient pet. Males can be headstrong and difficult to train while females possess a better attention span. Males often get distracted by scents they track instead of listening to commands. But because they are eager to please, they will likely be eager to participate in training. Never let a bloodhound off-leash and always use a strong one. Train them as soon as they start tracking scents because they will tend to wander off to follow their source, as they are meant to do!

Shared Traits

The breed is known for its gentle tolerant demeanor. However, if they catch a scent they may take off and ignore everything else. Both males and females have an average lifespan of between 10 to 12 years.

Grooming

Because of their wrinkles, bloodhounds take a bit more attention than other breeds. Monthly bathing, including ear cleaning and nail clipping, is advised. Thoroughly dry afterward to avoid moisture retention in their folds. Weekly grooming should include cleaning and drying the chin and neck folds and checking for irritation or signs of infection. Avoid shampoos with strong fragrances so as not to offend their sensitive sense of smell. Moisturize calloused hocks or elbows with cocoa butter or hand cream.

Eyes/Ears: Gently wipe their eyelids daily to remove discharge. Keep their eyes moist and healthy by wiping them with mineral or baby oil. Droopy ears can get into food, make sure to wipe them after meals. However, using a snood (a hood-like cover) will keep their ears up and out of the way.

Drool: Due to their heavy lips, they drool a lot. Keep towels on hand to wipe and beware of shaking as drool could fly everywhere. A good general wipe-down when entering the house will keep the dog and the house clean.

Fenced Area: A secure area surrounded by a six-foot chain link or wood and wire fence is the most successful enclosure. Bloodhounds are great at digging and will burrow under a fence if left unsupervised.

Exercise/Mental Stimulation: Provide about 20-40 minutes of daily exercise, long walks with plenty to smell are their favorite activity. Accustomed to working in packs, provide the mental stimulation they need by socializing with other dogs and humans.

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