Black and Tan Coonhound Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Black and Tan Coonhound — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
Originating in United States, the Black and Tan Coonhound is a large-sized hound breed that currently holds the #154 spot in AKC registrations. The first coonhound breed recognized by the AKC in 1945 and the only one that comes in a single color pattern, the classic black and tan. The Black and Tan Coonhound is a member of the Hound Group — dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their high energy output on tracking days. An adult Black and Tan Coonhound needs between 1461 and 2168 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
Plan on 1.0–2.2 cups of premium dry food daily for your adult Black and Tan Coonhound, divided into morning and evening meals. Given this hound breed's predisposition to Hip Dysplasia, discuss dietary approaches that may help manage this risk with your vet. Males weigh 65 to 110 pounds and females 50 to 85 pounds; they are the largest of the six coonhound breeds..
Daily Calorie Needs for Black and Tan Coonhound
Adult
1461-2168
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1694
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
1063-1577
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Black and Tan Coonhounds
With an above-average energy level, the Black and Tan Coonhound benefits from a feeding plan that balances calorie intake with their active lifestyle. Two measured meals per day totaling 3.8-5.7 cups of kibble provides steady energy without the blood sugar spikes of a single large meal. Choose a formula with at least 25% protein and moderate fat to support their daily activity.
Black and Tan Coonhound Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
1.9-2.9 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
1.9-2.9 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Black and Tan Coonhound
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 3.8-5.7 cups | 1461-2168 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 5.8-8.7 cans | 1461-2168 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 21-53 oz | 1461-2168 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 3.8-5.7 cups
- Calories
- 1461-2168 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 5.8-8.7 cans
- Calories
- 1461-2168 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 21-53 oz
- Calories
- 1461-2168 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Black and Tan Coonhounds
The Black and Tan Coonhound requires significant daily exercise — typically 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity. On high-activity days (hiking, running, dog sports), increase their food by 10-20% to compensate for the extra calorie burn. On rest days, stick to the baseline portion. Never feed a large meal within 30 minutes of intense exercise; instead, offer a small snack 2 hours before activity and the main meal 1 hour after.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for Black and Tan Coonhounds, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Thyroid Health & Diet
Hypothyroidism is a recognized concern in Black and Tan Coonhounds, affecting metabolism, weight, coat quality, and energy level. A Black and Tan Coonhound with untreated hypothyroidism may gain weight despite eating normal portions, develop a thin or dull coat, and become lethargic. If your Black and Tan Coonhound shows these signs, a simple blood test can confirm the diagnosis. While thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is the primary treatment, dietary support matters: ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet, maintain strict portion control to prevent weight gain, and consider a weight-management formula if your dog is on thyroid medication but still struggling with weight.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active Black and Tan Coonhound that runs for 2 hours burns significantly more than one that had a lazy day. Track activity and adjust portions accordingly — up to 20% more on high-activity days, 10% less on rest days.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early — even at 1-2 years old — is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Not providing enough water alongside increased food
Active large breeds process significant amounts of food and need plenty of fresh water. Ensure your Black and Tan Coonhound always has access to clean water, and consider adding water to kibble if hydration is a concern, especially after exercise.
Blaming laziness for weight gain without checking thyroid
Black and Tan Coonhounds are predisposed to hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism and causes weight gain even on normal portions. If your Black and Tan Coonhound is gaining weight despite measured feeding, ask your vet for a thyroid panel before simply cutting food.
Black and Tan Coonhound-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Black and Tan Coonhounds, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Iodine & Selenium
Ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet. Weight management is important as hypothyroidism can cause weight gain.
Black and Tan Coonhound Ideal Weight
To determine if your Black and Tan Coonhound is at a healthy weight (65–110 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. Their coat type allows for relatively easy visual assessment.
Male Black and Tan Coonhound
65-110 lbs
29-50 kg
Female Black and Tan Coonhound
55-96 lbs
25-44 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.