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The Hound with the curious name (we’ll reach that) and the peculiar history (we’ll reach that too) is a streamlined, long-tailed, light-legged hunter that stands up to 25 high at the shoulder. The bright coat has an array of brindle-striped patterns, ranging from black and white to vivid orange and ropes, in addition to some solid colors. The medium-length ears hang gracefully, and the leather of the nose, lips, and rim of the eyes are black, establishing an inquisitive and confident expression.
Unique among the six AKC Conhound breeds, the plot hounds originate not from the English Foxhound but from the German Hanover Hound. In 1750, a German immigrant named Johannes Plott arrived in North Carolina. He was accompanied by five Hanover hunters brought from the old country. Plot settled in the mountains, where he raised a family and hunted bears with his prey. His son, Henry, divided the family pack into local stock and produced a large game hunter, originally known as the plot’s den.
A hunting hound of striking color that traditionally brings big game to the bay or tree, the plot hound is intelligent, alert and confident. Famous for stamina, endurance, agility, determination and aggressiveness when hunting, powerful, well muscled, yet well-organized plot hounds combine courage with athletic ability.
The gestation period in lasts for 60-64 days The primary period of the reproductive cycle of the female is called Proestrus and goes on for around 9 days. During this time the females begin to draw in males. The subsequent part is the Estrus when the bitch is receptive to the male. It goes on for around 3 to 11 days. The third part is the Diestrus. Usually, it happens around day 14. In this period the bitch’s discharge changes for distinctive red and reaching its end. The vulva gets back to average, and she will no longer allow mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time span between heat periods ordinarily keeps going around a half year. The litter size ranges between 6 to 8 puppies at a time’
The smooth, fine, shiny coat of the plot may have any type of shade (a streak or striped pattern of dark hair applied to a light bacround), solid black, or a saddle or sign. This requires minimal maintenance, just a weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or hound gloves to remove dirt and loose hair. Taking an occasional bath can help him to keep the smell of a dog. Plot ears should be inspected regularly for debris or excess wax and if necessary with a soft mist and an ear-cleaning solution – a dog breeder or veterinarian can recommend a good brand to use . Nails should often be trimmed if not worn down naturally.
The plot is intelligent, cautious and reassuring. He may be a tail-piercing, people-loving dog, but a bit sedentary, as he is extremely smart and focused. Puppies should be well socialized with gentle contact with a wide variety of people and other animals. Prospective owners should plan on an energetic puppy that needs a lot of attention. Because of his intelligence, the plot requires mental stimulation to keep him occupied, or he will find ways to please himself which may be undesirable. Plots can be aggressive, such as food or toys, and need to be trained to avoid these behaviors. Many times the owners must be prepared to hear the “voice” of the plot in the house.
The plots are tough, tireless athletes that require lots of exercise and outdoor time. The breed’s standard states: “Famous for stamina, endurance, agility, determination and aggression to hunt, a powerful, well-muscled, yet well-organized plot combines courage with athletic ability.” Daily vigorous exercises such as long walks or running or playing sessions with its owner will help keep the plot mentally and physically healthy. Because the plot is extremely hunting, it should always be on a leash.
Plot hounds should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared at home with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet, check with your vet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
Plots are usually healthy dogs. A responsible breeder may have screened the dog’s parents for health concerns such as hip dysplasia. Plots such as pendulous ears may be at risk of infection, so the ears should be examined regularly. Teeth often need to be brushed, using toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help ensure the plot has a long, healthy life.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: