Hound Dogs
Bloodhound
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Large
Life Span
11 to 15 years
Weight
80 to 110 pounds
Height
23 to 27 inches ttall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Hound Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Bloodhound — Key Facts
About the Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is a large hound dog known for being deeply loving with its family and outgoing and sociable. With a highly intelligent mind, better suited to homes with outdoor space, the Bloodhound is best matched with experienced owners. Typically standing 23 to 27 inches ttall at the shoulder and weighing 80 to 110 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 11 to 15 years, making it a long-lived companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Hound Dogs group, the Bloodhound brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Bloodhound is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Bloodhound loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Bloodhound has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Bloodhound is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Bloodhound tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
Friendly and open with new people, the Bloodhound rarely meets a stranger it doesn't like. The Bloodhound can be vocal and will readily alert you to visitors or unusual activity. The Bloodhound has a strong urge to explore, so a well-fenced yard and reliable recall training are essential. The Bloodhound has a moderate prey drive — keep an eye on small animals nearby.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 11 to 15 years, the Bloodhound is a long-lived breed — a serious commitment. Overall a hardy breed, the Bloodhound benefits from routine vet check-ups and preventive care.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. The Bloodhound has a moderate tendency to gain weight — monitor portion sizes and avoid too many treats. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Bloodhound is best suited to experienced dog owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. A home with outdoor space is strongly preferred.
The Bloodhound handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. The Bloodhound manages moderate climates comfortably. The Bloodhound handles warm weather reasonably well with standard precautions.
In summary, the Bloodhound is a sociable and loving hound dogs that fits well into a variety of households. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Bloodhound home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bloodhound good with kids?
The Bloodhound is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Bloodhound need?
The Bloodhound is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. Activities like fetch, hiking, and agility are ideal.
Does the Bloodhound shed a lot?
Yes, the Bloodhound is a heavy shedder. Daily brushing, regular vacuuming, and seasonal grooming appointments are part of owning this breed.
Own a Bloodhound?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Bloodhound owners in Hushku.