Treeing Tennessee Brindle
Also known as Tennessee Brindle · Brindle Cur
United States, Coonhounds and American hounds
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 41–61 cm
- Weight
- 14–23 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 yrs
- Intelligent
- Keen-nosed
- Vocal
- Loyal
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a medium-sized American cur bred to tree game such as squirrels and raccoons. It has a short, soft coat that is brindle or black with brindle trim, sometimes with small white marks on the chest and feet. It is fast, keen-nosed and known for its distinctive voice on the trail.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 41–61 cm
- Adult weight
- 14–23 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
10–12 years
Most Treeing Tennessee Brindles live 10–12 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
These dogs are intelligent, eager hunters with a strong instinct to tree game. Away from the hunt they are usually friendly and loyal with their family.
- Intelligent
- Keen-nosed
- Vocal
- Loyal
Food
For a typical 18.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,000 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 740 ml–1.1 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayA working cur needs a lot of daily exercise, ideally including hunting or tracking. Long walks, running and scent games help keep it busy.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat is easy to care for with a weekly brush. Check the ears after time in the woods.
Health
Like other treeing dogs it can be vocal and will follow its nose, so recall training and secure fencing matter. It is rare outside the United States. See a vet for ear infections, cuts or limping after hunting.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health research has been published
- Ear infections are common in active hunting dogs
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
Not every Treeing Tennessee Brindle is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
In the early 1960s Reverend Earl Phillips learned about brindle curs while writing a column for a hunting magazine. He contacted their owners, and in 1967 they formed the Treeing Tennessee Brindle Breeders Association in Illinois. Foundation dogs came mainly from the region between the Ozarks and the Appalachians. The AKC has kept records for the breed in its Foundation Stock Service since 1995.
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Coonhounds and American hounds
- Recognition
- Recorded in the AKC Foundation Stock Service; not fully recognised by the AKC, FCI or The Kennel Club
Is a Treeing Tennessee Brindle right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–12 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Treeing Tennessee Brindle FAQ
How big does a Treeing Tennessee Brindle get?
Adult Treeing Tennessee Brindles typically stand about 41–61 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 14–23 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Treeing Tennessee Brindles live?
Typically 10–12 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Treeing Tennessee Brindle need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Treeing Tennessee Brindle need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Treeing Tennessee Brindles easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Treeing Tennessee Brindles shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Treeing Tennessee Brindles good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Treeing Tennessee Brindle live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Treeing Tennessee Brindles have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health research has been published, ear infections are common in active hunting dogs. Not every Treeing Tennessee Brindle is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.