Redbone Coonhound Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Redbone Coonhound — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
Originally bred in United States, the Redbone Coonhound has become one of the world's most recognizable medium breeds, sitting at #153 in AKC popularity. The laid-back, red-coated hound immortalized in 'Where the Red Fern Grows' whose easygoing charm and soulful eyes win hearts effortlessly. The Redbone 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 Redbone Coonhound needs between 1109 and 1545 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
Plan on 0.7–1.4 cups of premium dry food daily for your adult Redbone 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. Weighs 45 to 70 pounds; they are lean and muscular with a slightly lighter build than Bluetick Coonhounds..
Daily Calorie Needs for Redbone Coonhound
Adult
1109-1545
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1237
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
807-1124
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 Redbone Coonhounds
With an above-average energy level, the Redbone Coonhound benefits from a feeding plan that balances calorie intake with their active lifestyle. Two measured meals per day totaling 2.9-4.1 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.
Weight Management for Redbone Coonhounds
Weight management is a critical health priority for Redbone Coonhounds. Is your Redbone Coonhound at a healthy weight? The ideal range is 45–70 lbs (males 45–70, females 38–61). Check these three signs: Ribs: Easily felt with light pressure; not visible but not buried under fat. An overweight Redbone Coonhound carrying just 10-20% extra body weight faces significantly higher risks of joint problems, cardiovascular strain, and shortened lifespan.
Redbone Coonhound Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
1.5-2.1 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
1.5-2.1 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Redbone Coonhound
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 2.9-4.1 cups | 1109-1545 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 4.4-6.2 cans | 1109-1545 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 14-34 oz | 1109-1545 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 2.9-4.1 cups
- Calories
- 1109-1545 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 4.4-6.2 cans
- Calories
- 1109-1545 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 14-34 oz
- Calories
- 1109-1545 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Redbone Coonhounds
The Redbone 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 Redbone 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
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Overfeeding because the Redbone Coonhound always seems hungry
Some breeds appear perpetually hungry due to genetics or behavior. Stick to measured portions and use low-calorie treats like baby carrots, green beans, or ice cubes. If your Redbone Coonhound inhales food, try a slow-feeder bowl.
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active Redbone 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.
Switching foods abruptly without a transition period
Any diet change — brand, flavor, or formula — should happen gradually over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old. Abrupt switches cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, gas) in most dogs, Redbone Coonhounds included.
Not accounting for treats in the daily calorie budget
Treats should never exceed 10% of your Redbone Coonhound's daily calorie intake. A single dental chew can contain 70-90 calories — significant for a dog that only needs 863 calories per day. Subtract treat calories from meal portions.
Redbone Coonhound-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Redbone 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.
Portion Control
This breed is prone to weight gain. Measure portions carefully, limit treats to 10% of daily calories, and avoid free-feeding. Consider a weight management formula.
Redbone Coonhound Ideal Weight
Is your Redbone Coonhound at a healthy weight? The ideal range is 45–70 lbs (males 45–70, females 38–61). Check these three signs: Ribs: Easily felt with light pressure; not visible but not buried under fat. Waistline: A clear narrowing behind the ribs when viewed from above.
Male Redbone Coonhound
45-70 lbs
20-32 kg
Female Redbone Coonhound
38-61 lbs
17-28 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.