Plott Hound breed: the daring hunter
2024. November 30 - Photos: Getty Images Hungary
2024. November 30 - Photos: Getty Images Hungary
The Plott Hound is a rare breed of dog, even less common in its native country. The reason for this is a mystery to breed lovers, as they are intelligent and loyal dogs.
is dogThe history of the Plott Hound is closely tied to the history of the state of North Carolina (so much so that it is the official dog breed of the state), but despite this, even the locals don’t really know of the breed’s existence. This may be because there is a lot that even the breeders don’t agree on (such as the ideal coloring or even the name). Nevertheless, those who do own a dog of this breed certainly agree that it is an excellent hunting dog, dedicated, fearless, loyal and able to switch well between work and home life.
The Plott Hound has a history of almost 300 years. It takes its name from the surname of its first breeder, who, according to some sources, travelled with his brother from Germany to America in the 1750s. No one knows for sure why the brothers left their homeland behind, but some believe that their family’s prestigious hunting history led them to be hired to keep the game population in the mountains of North Carolina at a level. John and Enoch Plott set out with five dogs. While Johannes (who changed his name to Georgera when he arrived in America) and the dogs arrived safely in the new world. Enoch lost his life on the long voyage.
This version contradicts Cynthia Plott-Duke’s research which suggests that Görg and Philippina Plott arrived in America with their children on 23 September 1741. Their names were Margaret, Frederick, George and Jacob. They had another son who died on the voyage. Probably the latter is the historically authentic version, but it does not go into the origins of the Copts, so we will return to the mystified story below.
Much like the mystery of why the brothers set off, details of exactly what breed the five dogs that accompanied George were have been lost to history. Judging from the appearance and function of the Plott Hounds and the family’s past it is thought they may have been Hanoverian Scenthounds. George’s ‘canine heritage’ passed to his son Henry, who further perfected the family’s hounds. Naturally, they had to include other breeds of dog in their breeding, as George’s five dogs were limited to a limited number of breeds. genetic stock would not be enough to keep the breed healthy in the long term. Thus, the Plott Hound owes its present appearance and temperament to breeds such as these, like the cur.
There are many anecdotes about the excellence of the Plott Hound. All of them highlight the intelligence and daring of the breed, which has had to face big game such as bears and cougars. One of the best-known stories stars Branch Rickey and the two scions of the Plott family, Von and Little George, and is set in 1935. During a three-day hunt in Copo, the Plott brothers jumped twenty bears, eight of which were successfully shot by the hunters. The breed’s reputation was thus established. However, as relentless as these dogs were in the hunting fields, they were also a great help around the house.
They also performed guarding duties and were said to have been involved in herding the feed animals. To this day, they are a favourite of hunters, but relatively few other dogs are kept. On the one hand, it is a pity that few people know about these reckless and versatile dogs, but on the other hand, it is fortunate that breeders can better control the ‘quality’ of the breed, i.e. its temperament, health and appearance.
Medium to large sized dog, with a height of 53-64 cm and a body weight of 18-29 kg. A well-built, muscular breed with a short, yet soft-feeling coat. The distinctive black tiger stripe pattern is found in almost all the basic colours of the breed. Trunk is long, the belly is slightly tucked up and the back is straight. Limbs are straight and parallel. Tail long, tail tapered. Head elongated, ears drooping and flush with the head, eyes dark brown. The breed is not accepted by the FCI and was not accepted by the AKC (American Kennel Club) until 2007.
This dog is intelligent and loyal, loves to be with his family and is also comfortable with other dogs. The Plott is a fearless hunting dog with an outstanding work ethic. He has high energy levels, so daily exercise and mental training are essential. A Plott Hound needs plenty of outdoor activities, preferably close to nature, and a full day’s hiking is not strenuous. He has an athletic build and likes to run. Th is a good companion for active owners who can give him all the exercise he needs.
He generally likes people, but it doesn’t hurt to start socialising him early. It’s easy to teach, and requires mental challenges as well as the right amount of exercise. If these are not met and he starts to get bored, he may start to produce unwanted behaviours. However, be aware that he has a very strong hunting instinct, so the use of a leash is highly recommended.
The Plott Hound adapts well, but its need for movement and its voice must be taken into account. Because this breed of dog is (due to its past) a notorious barker. It gets on well with small children, but of course any interaction between a dog and a child must be supervised.
Its care does not require much attention. Her coat and skin will thank you if you brush her once a week or give her an occasional bath. Other than that, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the ears, cleaning them often to prevent them from becoming inflamed.
Generally a very healthy dog breed, fortunately it does not have any particular hereditary, common diseases. Nevertheless, as with all dogs, regular, appropriate veterinary care is important to maintain good health throughout his life.
Literature:János Szinák-István Veress: Dogs of the World I.
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