The Treeing Walker Coonhound grew out of English and American Foxhounds in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee, developed to trail raccoons and hold them up a tree. The United Kennel Club recognized it as its own breed in 1945 and the AKC in 2012. Adults stand 20 to 27 inches and weigh roughly 50 to 70 pounds, with a short, glossy tricolor coat, long ears and soft, dark eyes.
Walkers are affectionate, sociable and often happy to sprawl on the couch after a good run, but they get intense when a scent catches their nose. Prey drive is high, and a ringing bay is part of the package. Dogs vary, so a quiet, mellow Walker is possible, yet a secure yard, a leash outside it and a plan for the noise are wise for any household.