Bloodhounds have the most developed olfactory system of any dog breed — they can follow a scent trail days old and ignore almost everything else while doing so. This makes them outstanding trailing dogs and also outstanding escape artists. If a Bloodhound finds an interesting scent, the recall cue simply does not register. This is not stubbornness — it is neurological priority. Planning for it is essential.
Containment: The First Conversation
Bloodhounds are determined, methodical, and surprisingly strong. Fencing needs to be high (1.8m+), checked for gaps at the base, and not scalable. Gates need secure latches. Any gap they can get their nose into, they will investigate. The nose leads and the body follows. A Bloodhound on a scent on the other side of a fence will find a way. This is not trainable out — it requires physical management.
Ear and Skin Fold Care
The dramatic pendulous ears and facial wrinkles are the breed's most distinctive features — and its most maintenance-intensive. Ears trap moisture and debris, creating ideal infection conditions. Check and wipe ear flaps daily; clean ear canals weekly with a veterinary ear cleaner. The deep facial folds and the dewlap (throat skin fold) also need daily wiping to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Signs of infection: smell, redness, discharge. Treat promptly; chronic fold infections cause significant pain.
Common Health Conditions
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: Very common in this large breed. OFA/BVA scores from both parents.
- Bloat (GDV): Deep-chested large breed — significant risk. Twice-daily feeding, slow feeder, no exercise around meals. Know the signs.
- Eye conditions: Ectropion (outward-rolling eyelids) is extremely common — the drooping lower eyelid exposes the conjunctiva. Entropion also occurs. Both cause chronic irritation and eye damage. Annual eye checks.
- Skin fold dermatitis: Skin fold infections across the face, dewlap, and body. Daily wiping prevents; antibiotics and antifungals treat.
Exercise and Lead Walking
Bloodhounds need 60-90 minutes of exercise daily. All of this on lead, or in a very securely enclosed space — no exceptions. A harness rather than collar distributes the considerable pulling force better when they lock onto a scent. Use a long line in semi-open spaces if you want to give them more freedom while maintaining control. Nose work and trailing games provide enormous mental stimulation with controlled physical output.
Bloodhound Care Summary
- Secure containment — 1.8m+ fencing, checked for gaps.
- Clean ear flaps daily; ear canals weekly.
- Wipe facial folds and dewlap daily.
- GDV prevention protocol: twice daily feeding, slow feeder, no exercise around meals.
- OFA/BVA hip and elbow scores from both parents.
Track your Bloodhound's health calendar, ear care reminders, and vaccines on the Woofio Bloodhound care page.