Hound Dogs
Plott
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Large
Life Span
12 to 14 years
Weight
40 to 75 pounds
Height
20 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Hound Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Plott — Key Facts
About the Plott
The Plott is a large hound dog known for being deeply loving with its family and friendly once acquainted. With a capable mind, better suited to homes with outdoor space, the Plott is best matched with experienced owners. Typically standing 20 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 40 to 75 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, making it a long-lived companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Hound Dogs group, the Plott brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Plott is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Plott loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Plott has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Plott generally gets along well with children, especially when socialised from puppyhood. The Plott tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
The Plott warms up to strangers at a steady pace and is neither overly suspicious nor blindly trusting. This breed tends to be quiet and won't alert you to every passing noise. The Plott has a strong urge to explore, so a well-fenced yard and reliable recall training are essential. A strong prey drive means the Plott should be kept on a lead around wildlife and small pets.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, the Plott is a long-lived breed — a serious commitment. The Plott is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.
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 Plott 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 Plott 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 Plott handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. Cold climates suit this breed well. The Plott tolerates heat well, though fresh water and shade should always be available.
In summary, the Plott 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 Plott home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Plott good with kids?
Yes, the Plott generally gets on well with children. As with any breed, supervised interactions and early socialisation produce the best results.
How much exercise does a Plott need?
The Plott 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 Plott shed a lot?
No — the Plott is a minimal shedder, making it a popular option for households concerned about allergies or keeping the home clean.
Own a Plott?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Plott owners in Hushku.