Plott Hound Plott Hound

Plott Hound

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Bold Loyal Athletic Determined

About the Plott Hound

The Plott Hound is the official state dog of North Carolina, descended from Hanoverian Schweisshunds brought to the Appalachian Mountains by German immigrant Johannes Plott in 1750. These athletic, muscular hounds stand 20 to 25 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds, built for endurance and tenacity on the trail. Their short to medium-length, glossy coat is most commonly brindle — ranging from yellow to chocolate to black brindle — though solid colors also occur.

Temperament & Personality

Plott Hounds are courageous, loyal, and determined — originally bred to track and tree bears, they possess a tenacious drive that can be both impressive and challenging. With their families, they are affectionate, eager to please, and surprisingly gentle, often forming deep bonds with their primary caretaker. They generally do well with children and other dogs, especially when raised together, though their strong prey drive means caution around cats and small animals.

Pros

  • Exceptional stamina and athleticism for hiking and outdoor adventures
  • Loyal and protective without being overly aggressive toward people
  • Low-maintenance coat that requires only occasional brushing
  • Healthier than many purebreds with a lifespan of 12 to 14 years

Cons

  • Loud, baying voice that carries long distances — not suited for noise-sensitive neighborhoods
  • Strong prey drive makes reliable off-leash recall very difficult
  • Can be stubborn and single-minded when tracking a scent
  • Requires substantial daily exercise — at least 60 minutes of vigorous activity

The Plott Hound is a hidden gem among sporting breeds — discover one looking for a forever home on Puplister.

Plott Hound Quick Facts

Size
40–60 lbs, 20–25 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes

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Available Plott Hounds

Fitz
Adult
Fitz
M

German Shepherd Dog / Plott Hound

All Shepherd Rescue · Baltimore, MD
Flower
Young
Flower
M

Plott Hound

Pasadena Humane · Pasadena, CA

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key traits of a Plott Hound?
The Plott Hound is known for being bold, loyal, athletic and determined.
How many Plott Hounds are available for adoption?
There are currently 14 Plott Hounds available for adoption on Puplister. Browse the listings above to find your perfect match.
How do I adopt a Plott Hound from Puplister?
To adopt a Plott Hound, browse the available listings on this page, click on a pet you're interested in, and contact the shelter directly through their profile page.