The Treeing Walker Coonhound traces to Virginia and Kentucky foxhound lines of the 1700s and 1800s, 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 followed in 2012. Walkers are lean and long-eared, with a glossy tricolor coat of white, black and tan and soft, pleading eyes. Most stand 20 to 27 inches tall and weigh 50 to 70 pounds.
Temperament runs sweet and sociable, but the hunting heritage shows. Walkers have a ringing bay, a nose that can pull them off course and a high prey drive, so cats and small pets need careful introductions. In Plano, that means leashed outings and solid fencing. The short coat is easy care: an occasional bath and weekly ear checks. Every Walker differs, so expect a range of energy and volume.