Enjoy this guide and overview with a lot of tips for new and existing owners of Treeing Walker Coonoodle dogs.
A Treeing Walker Coonoodle is an incredible mix of a Treeing Walker Coonhound and a Poodle.
History of Treeing Walker Coonoodle Dogs
The Treeing Walker Coonoodle has roots deeply embedded in American history, descending from English and American Foxhounds. The breed was named after a Kentuckian named John Walker, who was instrumental in developing the breed in the 19th century. These hounds were bred for their exceptional ability to track and tree wild raccoons; their keen nose, incredible stamina, and the instinct to pursue make them unmatched in the hunting domain.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is revered for its hunting prowess, specifically its “treeing” skill, where it would chase prey up into trees and alert hunters with its distinctive bay. This breed’s impressive scenting ability, coupled with its agile speed, has made it a favorite for raccoon hunting across the United States.
As with many purebreds, the idea of blending the Treeing Walker Coonhound with another breed was to capture desirable traits from both lines. In the late 20th century, the movement to create hybrid breeds or ‘designer dogs’ gained momentum, with the Poodle being a popular choice due to its hypoallergenic coat and high intelligence. Thus, the Treeing Walker Coonoodle was born.
This doodle mix aimed to integrate the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle with the strong hunting instincts and robustness of the Treeing Walker Coonhound. The result is a dog that possesses the alertness and stamina of a coonhound but with the added bonus of the Poodle’s more allergy-friendly coat and quick learning ability. The Treeing Walker Coonoodle is not just a pet; it’s a companion that inherits the rich heritage of its parents, promising to be as good on the trail as it is in the home.
The exact origin of the first Treeing Walker Coonoodle is not well documented, as is the case with many designer dogs. However, what is clear is that the goal was to produce a versatile dog, one that could potentially excel in agility, companionship, and possibly even water-related activities, given the Poodle’s natural affinity for swimming.
Today’s Treeing Walker Coonoodles may not be as widespread as other doodle mixes, but they’re certainly carving out a niche among families and individuals who appreciate an active, intelligent, and friendly dog with a unique twist on the doodle trend.
Whether you’re drawn to the Treeing Walker Coonoodle for its novel combination of traits or its potential as a loving and energetic family pet, understanding its roots provides valuable insight into the breed’s character and care requirements. With a lineage rich in American history and a dash of French poodle sophistication, the Treeing Walker Coonoodle stands as a proud representation of its ancestral legacy.
Selecting a Treeing Walker Coonoodle Dog
As a relatively new and specific designer dog, you won’t find many Treeing Walker Coonoodles around. This rarity can make your pet quite the conversation starter at the dog park!
When selecting a Treeing Walker Coonoodle, prospective owners should consider the unique characteristics that stem from both the Treeing Walker Coonhound and the Poodle lineage:
This hybrid dog will likely inherit the high energy levels of the Treeing Walker Coonhound, which means they will require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and content. Long walks, runs, and active play sessions are a must.
Poodles are known for their high intelligence, which often makes them easier to train. The Treeing Walker Coonoodle may inherit this trait, likely resulting in a dog that is both smart and eager to please. This can make them good candidates for obedience training and possibly even agility or other dog sports.
Other Considerations:
- Prey Drive: The strong hunting instincts of the Treeing Walker Coonhound may lead to a significant prey drive in this mix. They might be inclined to chase small animals, so a secure yard and leash training are important.
- Vocalization: Treeing Walker Coonhounds are known for their distinctive bark, or “bay.” Owners of a Treeing Walker Coonoodle should be prepared for a dog that may be quite vocal, potentially making them good watchdogs, but also requiring training to manage excessive barking.
- Coat Care: Depending on which parent breed’s coat the hybrid favors, grooming needs can vary. If the Coonoodle has the curly, low-shedding coat of the Poodle, regular grooming will be necessary to prevent matting. If it has the shorter coat of the Coonhound, grooming will be more straightforward, but shedding may be more pronounced.
- Temperament: Both parent breeds are known for their friendly nature. The Coonoodle is likely to be a sociable dog that enjoys being around people and other pets, but early socialization is key to fostering a well-adjusted adult dog.
- Size Variability: Given that Poodles come in three sizes (standard, miniature, and toy), the size of a Treeing Walker Coonoodle can vary considerably, depending on which size Poodle is used in the mix.
- Health Considerations: Hybrid vigor may benefit the Treeing Walker Coonoodle, potentially leading to fewer health problems. However, it’s essential to be aware of the health issues that affect both parent breeds, such as hip dysplasia in Poodles and eye conditions in Coonhounds.
- Adaptability: Treeing Walker Coonhounds are accustomed to outdoor life and are quite adaptable. The mix with Poodle might inherit this adaptability, but prospective owners should ensure they have enough space and a suitable environment that caters to an active dog’s needs.
- Affinity for Water: Poodles are natural swimmers, and if the Treeing Walker Coonoodle inherits this love for water, they might be excellent companions for water-related activities.
The Treeing Walker Coonoodle can be a wonderful addition to the right household!
Size and Lifespan of Treeing Walker Coonoodle Dogs
Since the Treeing Walker Coonhound is a fairly large breed, standing about 20 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 50 and 70 pounds, the size of the Coonoodle will largely depend on the Poodle parent size.
A Standard Poodle mix would likely result in a medium-to-large dog, potentially weighing anywhere from 40 to 70 pounds and standing 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
You may expect a Treeing Walker Coonoodle to have a lifespan somewhere in the middle of its parent breed’s range, potentially living around 12–15 years.
Health and Maintenance of Treeing Walker Coonoodle Dogs
Health: The Treeing Walker Coonoodle, a mix between a Treeing Walker Coonhound and a Poodle, may inherit health concerns from both or either parent.
From the Treeing Walker Coonhound side:
- Hip Dysplasia: A common condition in larger breeds, it occurs when the hip joint does not fit together perfectly, which can lead to arthritis or lameness.
- Ear Infections: Due to their long, floppy ears, Coonhounds are prone to ear infections, which can be mitigated with regular cleaning.
- Eye conditions: Coonhounds are prone to progressive retinal atrophy and other eye conditions that their Coonoodle offspring might inherit.
From the Poodle side:
- Addison’s Disease: A disorder of the adrenal glands that can be seen in Poodles, leading to symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or poor appetite.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: A blood-clotting disorder that may be passed on from the Poodle lineage.
- Sebaceous adenitis is an inflammatory skin disease that is found primarily in Standard Poodles, causing hair loss and skin issues.
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Maintenance
Coat Care: Regular grooming is necessary to prevent matting and tangles, with brushing recommended several times a week.
Exercise: They will need substantial daily exercise—such as long walks, runs, or play sessions—to maintain physical and mental health.
Diet: A balanced diet suited to their size, age, and activity level is crucial.
Regular Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups with a vet can help catch any of the aforementioned health issues early.
Training and Socialization: Early socialization and obedience training are key, as both breeds are intelligent and can have a stubborn streak.
Personality and Behavioral Traits of Treeing Walker Coonoodle Dogs
Personality
The Treeing Walker Coonoodle is an intriguing blend of the vivacious and intelligent personalities of both the Treeing Walker Coonhound and the Poodle. They are likely to inherit the following traits:
Energetic and Playful:
- Treeing Walker Coonhounds are known for their boundless energy and stamina, traits that are likely to be passed down to their Coonoodle offspring. This mix will likely enjoy engaging in activities and will need plenty of exercise to stay happy.
- Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for active individuals and families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Intelligent and Trainable:
- With the Poodle’s renowned intelligence and the Coonhound’s sharp hunting instincts, the Treeing Walker Coonoodle is likely to be a quick learner, responding well to training.
- Their intelligence also means they can become bored easily, so mental stimulation through training exercises and interactive play is essential.
Affectionate and Loyal:
- They are expected to form strong bonds with their family members, be affectionate and enjoying time spent together.
- Their loyalty can sometimes translate into protective behaviors, making early socialization important to ensure they are well-adjusted.
Behavioral Traits
With Children:
- The Treeing Walker Coonoodle can be a great family dog, often gentle and playful with children. However, due to their size and energy, supervision with younger children is recommended to ensure play remains safe and gentle.
- Teaching children how to interact with dogs and vice versa is important to foster mutual respect and understanding.
With Other Pets:
- Their Coonhound ancestry means they may have a strong prey drive, which could affect their interactions with smaller pets.
- If raised together and properly socialized, they can get along well with other dogs and even cats, but it’s important to supervise early interactions.
With Strangers:
- They may inherit the Poodle’s cautiousness with strangers or the Coonhound’s friendliness, resulting in a dog that is either reserved or welcoming.
- Proper introduction and socialization will help them become well-mannered with new people.
Adaptability:
- While adaptable to various living situations, they will do best with space to roam and play due to their high energy levels.
- They may not be suitable for apartment living unless they are given ample daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Separation Anxiety:
- Both parent breeds can experience separation anxiety, and the Treeing Walker Coonoodle may inherit this tendency.
- It’s important for them to have a routine and not be left alone for extended periods, as they may become distressed and potentially destructive.
Vocalization:
- The Coonhound’s tendency to bay and the Poodle’s alert barking could result in a vocal dog, which may be a consideration for potential owners, especially those living in close proximity to neighbors.
Independent vs. Companionable:
- They may display the independent streak common in Coonhounds, especially when a scent catches their interest. However, their Poodle heritage may balance this with a desire to stay close to humans and participate in family activities.
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Nutrition and Diet for Treeing Walker Coonoodle Dogs
Here are some breed-specific dietary considerations:
High Energy Needs:
- Given their likely high energy levels, especially if they take after the Treeing Walker Coonhound’s vigorous temperament, Coonoodles will require a diet rich in proteins and fats to sustain their vitality.
- Look for high-quality dog food that lists real meat as the first ingredient to support their muscle development and energy requirements.
Appropriate Caloric Intake:
- Since they are expected to be medium to large in size, their caloric intake should be adjusted to their activity level to prevent obesity.
- A more sedentary Coonoodle will require fewer calories, while a highly active one may need calorie-dense meals. It’s important to calculate their caloric needs based on their weight, age, and activity level.
Joint Health:
- Larger dogs can be prone to joint issues, so diets supplemented with glucosamine and chondroitin can be beneficial for maintaining joint health.
Coat Health:
- Poodles are known for their coats, which require specific nutrition to maintain health and sheen. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, found in fish oils, flaxseed, and certain plant oils, are important for skin and coat health and should be included in their diet.
Digestive Health:
- A diet with a proper balance of fiber can aid in digestion, which is particularly important if they inherit the Poodle’s sensitive stomach. Prebiotics and probiotics can also be beneficial for gut health.
Weight Management:
- Both parent breeds can be prone to weight gain if overfed or not exercised sufficiently. It’s crucial to monitor their weight and adjust their diet accordingly.
Life Stage Nutrition:
- Puppies will require a diet formulated for growth and rich in DHA for brain development.
- Adults need a balanced diet for maintenance, while seniors might need a diet lower in calories but higher in easily digestible proteins to maintain muscle mass.
Avoiding Allergies and Sensitivities:
- If they inherit the Poodle’s propensity for food sensitivities, you may need to provide a diet free from common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and certain proteins.
Hydration:
- Adequate fresh water should always be available, as hydration is key to overall health, particularly for active breeds.
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Cost to Purchase a Treeing Walker Coonoodle Dog and Annual Costs
Prices for a Treeing Walker Coonoodle puppy can range from $600 to $2,000.
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Annual Cost of Owning a Treeing Walker Coonoodle
Annual costs can include food, grooming, veterinary care, training, and miscellaneous supplies. You can expect annual costs to be approximately $1,250 to $3,500, not including any unforeseen medical expenses.
Unforeseen Costs:
- Emergency Veterinary Care: It’s crucial to factor in potential emergency health issues, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
- Replacement of Damaged Items: Dogs, especially active and intelligent ones like the Coonoodle, may chew or damage household items, leading to variable replacement costs
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Grooming a Treeing Walker Coonoodle Dog
The Treeing Walker Coonoodle has a unique appearance. They have the sleek, muscular build of the Treeing Walker Coonhound and the curly, often hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. Their paws match their overall build, and they have webbed toes. Their snouts are medium to short in length and they have very expressive facial features.
Coat Care
- Texture and Length: The coat of a Treeing Walker Coonoodle can range from wavy to curly. The length is typically medium to long, and it usually requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
- Color: Coat colors can be diverse, including black, white, brown, or a mix, often with the distinctive markings of the Treeing Walker Coonhound.
- Brushing: Frequent brushing, at least three times a week, is recommended to keep their coat free from tangles and debris. During shedding seasons, daily brushing may be necessary.
- Bathing: They should be bathed every 4-6 weeks with a dog-formulated shampoo to maintain skin health and coat luster.
Ear Care
- Cleaning: Regular ear checks and cleaning are crucial since both Poodles and Coonhounds can be prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner weekly.
- Examination: Look for signs of redness, bad odor, or unusual discharge, which are indicative of infection.
Eye Care
- Routine Checks: Regularly check their eyes for any signs of irritation, redness, or discharge.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe any discharge from around their eyes, and trim any long hair that may poke the eyes.
Nail Care
- Trimming: Nails should be trimmed every 3–4 weeks to prevent overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. Long nails can cause discomfort or lead to structural issues.
- Desensitization: It’s important to get the Treeing Walker Coonoodle accustomed to nail trimming from an early age to minimize stress during grooming sessions.
Dental Care
- Teeth Brushing: Regular brushing with canine toothpaste can prevent dental issues and bad breath.
- Chew Toys: Safe chew toys can help keep their teeth clean and healthy.
Professional Grooming
Given their potential for a high-maintenance coat, professional grooming might be necessary every 4-6 weeks. This can include a bath, hair trimming, ear cleaning, nail clipping, and sometimes anal gland expression.
Grooming Tips
- Start grooming routines early to accustom your Treeing Walker Coonoodle to the process.
- Regular grooming not only keeps your Coonoodle looking its best but also provides an opportunity to bond with your dog.
- Always use grooming tools appropriate for their coat type to avoid any skin irritation or injury.
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Hi! I’m Laura, a very passionate enthusiast of Poodles and Doodle Dogs. Based in sunny California, I love sharing Inspiring Doodle Dog Stories, being creative, and singing in a women’s choir!
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