Meet The Fearless Mountain Dog That Conquered Wild Boar

Some dogs fetch tennis balls. Others tackle wild boar like it’s their day job. The Plott Hound falls squarely into the second category, and honestly, they wouldn’t have it any other way. This breed turned mountain hunting into an art form while somehow managing to be perfect family pets, too. Let’s read more about them.

German Origins 

Johannes Georg Plott’s transatlantic journey in 1750 revolutionized American hunting. He brought five Hanoverian Schweisshunds from Bavaria, surviving a grueling two-month ocean voyage. These resilient dogs became the foundation bloodline for an entire breed. Plott specifically chose North Carolina because of its mountainous terrain.

North Carolina State Dog

Breaking tradition, North Carolina chose a breed born within its own borders as the official state dog in 1989. The Plott Hound emerged victorious after beating many competing breeds for this prestigious honor. This recognition was hard-won through dedicated campaigning by breed enthusiasts. 

Wild Boar Specialists

The pups were engineered for one dangerous purpose: hunting massive wild boar in perilous mountain forests. Their powerful build proves perfect for confronting 300-pound tusked beasts. Additionally, the remarkable stamina they possess enables them to hunt for over 12 hours without fatigue. 

Seven Generation Bloodline

Henry Plott made breeding an art, maintaining meticulous records for two centuries. The family’s dedication to genetic purity meant that zero outside breeds entered the bloodline until the 1940s. It was this careful isolation that crafted the species’ legendary characteristics and unwavering loyalty. 

Distinctive Brindle Coat

Nature’s camouflage comes standard with our mountain hunters. Their signature brindle striping ranges from light gold to rich chocolate, blending seamlessly into forest shadows. While solid colors occasionally appear, the classic brindle pattern remains the same. That double-layered coat acts as natural armor.

Superior Scent Ability

Such canine detectives can literally resurrect scent trails several days old with stunning accuracy. Over 300 million scent receptors power their extraordinary sense of smell, making them tracking machines. Some have even followed wounded game for more than 20 miles without losing the trail. 

Fearless Combat Instinct

When facing bears, wild boar, or mountain lions, Plott Hounds never flinch. Their courage spawned the Southern expression “gritty as a Plott.” They’ll hold dangerous game at bay for hours until hunters arrive for backup. Such protective instinct transfers to their human families with equal intensity.

Athletic Build 

Built like four-legged athletes, males weigh 50–60 pounds while females range from 40 to 55 pounds. Their muscular frame delivers the explosive power needed for tackling huge prey. Plus, exceptional athleticism is displayed by their six-foot vertical leaps from a standing position. 

Only Non-English Coonhound

Standing apart from American coonhound tradition, these hounds trace their lineage to German stock, not English Foxhounds. The American Kennel Club recognized their unique heritage in 2006. Basically, their Germanic ancestry creates a genetic distinction from other American hounds. Fellow hunters often call them the “other coonhound.”

Resilient Injury Recovery

During vigorous hunts, they recover from minor injuries such as scrapes and bruises. Rough terrain and thorns can’t harm a tough skin and protective coat. Even with cuts or sprains, these animals continue to track, showcasing their brilliant determination and superb healing abilities.

Loyal Hunting Partnership

Trust becomes everything when facing charging boars in scary mountain conditions. These dogs develop deep bonds with their owners, allowing them to exhibit intuitive teamwork during high-stakes pursuits. They respond swiftly to handler commands, often protecting owners from aggressive wildlife. 

Intense Prey Drive

Obsession defines their hunting mentality from the moment scent hits their nose. Plott Hounds will track for days, completely focused and immune to distractions. Their prey drive activates as early as eight weeks old. This intensity requires owners who understand their single-minded determination.

Gentle Family Guardians

Transformation occurs when these fierce hunters return home to their families. Despite their wild boar-conquering nature, they become pretty gentle with children. Their protective impulses make them excellent watchdogs for the household. Elderly family members particularly benefit from their patient and caring demeanor.

Low-Maintenance Grooming

Moderate shedding occurs twice a year during seasonal changes, with nothing overwhelming. Simplicity marks their grooming routine, which demands only weekly brushing sessions. Apparently, their weather-resistant coat naturally repels dirt and debris from outdoor adventures. Bathing becomes necessary only when they encounter messy situations.

High Exercise Demands

Energy courses through these dogs, literally. Hence, at least two hours of vigorous daily exercise is a must. Mental stimulation through scent work prevents their destructive household behavior. Note that apartment living mostly fails to meet their substantial exercise requirements and natural instincts.

Distinctive Voice Communication

Volume and distance define their impressive vocal range across mountain environments. Their bay carries over two miles, reaching hunters in remote locations. Different vocalizations signal various prey types, creating a hunting language. That famous “chop” bark also alerts handlers when dangerous game is cornered.

Natural Pack Hunters

Teamwork flows seamlessly when these creatures hunt together in groups. Their pack mentality crafts great cooperation during complex hunting scenarios. Body language and vocalizations also help them communicate with other pack members. It is said that individual dogs will sacrifice themselves to protect the entire pack.

Problem-Solving Intelligence

Successful hunting locations are memorized and revisited for future expeditions. Apparently, strategy plays a critical role in their hunting approach, enabling these creatures to adapt mid-chase and outsmart their clever prey. They analyze complex escape routes while tracking animals through difficult terrain. 

Living Appalachian Heritage

History walks alongside these dogs, representing 270 years of continuous American breeding. Multiple generations of mountain families have owned such hounds as cherished companions. They personify living symbols of authentic Appalachian hunting culture and tradition, with modern bloodlines connecting directly to colonial America.

Life Expectancy 

According to reliable sources, such as Pet Health Network and PetMD, the life expectancy of a Plott Hound is approximately 12 to 14 years. With the right care, regular veterinary examinations, exercise, and a healthy diet, this longevity can be attained.