Treeing Tennessee Brindle

During the 1960s, Reverend Earl Phillips noticed that a specific type of Cur dog, known for its excellent sense of smell, speed, and treeing ability, was becoming popular among hunters. Along with other owners, he founded an organization to protect and promote this breed, now known as the Treeing Tennessee Brindle. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service and can participate in AKC companion events.

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle has a distinctive brindle coat and an athletic build. They excel as hunters, watchdogs, and companions. In hunting scenarios, they prefer working in packs but may not be suitable for households with smaller pets due to their prey drive.

This breed stands out with its short, smooth brindle fur, which can be black and brindle or have white spots. The male Treeing Tennessee Brindle stands 18 to 24 inches in height, while females are 16 to 22 inches tall, with a weight range of 30 to 45 pounds. Known for their striking coats and performance on trails, they are prized for their loud, distinctive voices used in tracking and treeing game. The breed’s performance and hunting abilities are always prioritized over appearance.

Primarily bred for their field prowess, Treeing Tennessee Brindles have impressive stamina and a keen sense of smell, allowing them to detect prey from a distance. Their vigilance and distinctive bays and barks make them exceptional game treeers.

Sensitive and responsive, Treeing Tennessee Brindles thrive under positive reinforcement training. They learn best when their good behavior is rewarded, and harsh reprimands are ineffective. With patience and gentle guidance, they become excellent companions.

An active breed, Treeing Tennessee Brindles require at least an hour of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They thrive outdoors, enjoying activities like tracking, hunting, hiking, climbing, and swimming. Ideal for rural settings with plenty of space to roam, they are not well-suited for city life, as confinement can lead to destructive behaviors.

Their short coat is low maintenance, requiring only weekly brushing. They seldom need baths unless particularly dirty. Regular walks on hard surfaces usually keep their nails in check, but occasional trims may be necessary, especially as they age.

Treeing Tennessee Brindle: The Complete Guide

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle dog breed, renowned for its strong treeing instincts and hunting prowess, is a unique and intelligent breed with a rich history. Originating in the Appalachian and Ozark Mountains, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle originated from Cur dogs with a focus on specific hunting abilities and distinctive physical traits. Known for its distinctive brindle coat, high energy levels, and loyalty, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a versatile and capable companion. The Tennessee Brindle stands out as a friendly, loyal, and highly trainable dog, making it an excellent choice for active families and hunters.

History of the Treeing Tennessee Brindle Breed

Origins in the 1960s

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle has a fascinating history that began in the 1960s. Its lineage traces back to various brindle cur dogs known for their exceptional hunting abilities. These dogs were primarily found in the rugged Appalachian and Ozark Mountains, where they were used by hunters to track and tree game.

Influence of Reverend Earl Phillips

The breed’s development was significantly influenced by Reverend Earl Phillips, an avid hunter and dog enthusiast. Phillips documented and promoted the breed through his writings, highlighting the unique characteristics and hunting skills of these dogs. The Treeing Tennessee Brindle’s heritage is closely tied to the Old Brindle Cur dog, which contributed to its brindle coat, intelligence, courage, and companionable temperament.

Formation of the Breeders Association

Phillips’ efforts brought attention to the breed, leading to the formation of the Treeing Tennessee Brindle Breeders Association in 1967. This organization was dedicated to preserving and enhancing the breed’s treeing skills and distinctive traits. The association focused on breeding practices that emphasized the dog’s ability to tree game, maintain a brindle coat, and possess a strong inbred instinct for hunting. These selective breeding practices ensured that the Treeing Tennessee Brindle remained a robust and capable hunting dog.

Read More: Guide to Dog Clubs for Dog Owners

Recognition by Kennel Clubs

In 2017, the United Kennel Club (UKC) officially recognized the Treeing Tennessee Brindle, acknowledging its unique qualities and contributions to hunting dog breeds. The breed was also included in the American Kennel Club (AKC) Foundation Stock Service. This inclusion is crucial for promoting and preserving rare breeds, allowing the Treeing Tennessee Brindle to gain more recognition and support within the dog breeding and hunting communities. Click here to read more about Dog Breeds Not Recognized by the AKC.

Physical Characteristics of the Treeing Tennessee Brindle

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a medium-sized, muscular brindle cur dog known for its distinctive brindle coat and exceptional hunting abilities. Below is a comprehensive overview of the breed’s physical characteristics.

Size and Build

• Height:
  • Males: Typically range from 18 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
  • Females: Generally stand between 16 to 22 inches tall.
• Weight: Both males and females weigh between 30 to 50 pounds.
• Build: These dogs possess a strong, athletic build designed for endurance and agility. Their muscular physique allows them to navigate rough terrains and pursue game efficiently, making them ideal hunting companions.

Coat and Color

Coat Type: The Treeing Tennessee Brindle has a short, smooth coat that is low-maintenance and easy to groom.

Color: The coat is characterized by its brindle pattern, which includes various shades of brown and black. Some dogs may also have brindle trim or tiger stripes.

Patterns: While the primary coat color is brindle, variations can include black and brindle combinations or even white spotting. The coat’s distinctive pattern not only provides a striking appearance but also serves a practical purpose by offering some camouflage in wooded environments.

Grooming Needs: The coat requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hair and keep the coat healthy and shiny. Bathing is rarely necessary unless the dog gets particularly dirty or rolls in something unpleasant.

Distinctive Features

Tail: The tail is typically erect, which aids in balance and agility, especially when the dog is navigating through rugged terrain or dense forest during a hunt.

Eyes: The Treeing Tennessee Brindle has V-shaped eyes that are keen and alert, providing excellent vision essential for spotting prey.

Ears: The breed’s droopy ears are not just a characteristic feature but also functional. They help funnel scents towards the nose, enhancing the dog’s already superior tracking abilities.

Voice: One of the most distinctive features of the Treeing Tennessee Brindle is its loud, resonant voice. These dogs are known for their baying and barking, which they use to alert hunters to the location of treed game. This vocal ability is a critical aspect of their hunting skill set.

Performance and Hunting Abilities

Hunting Prowess: The Treeing Tennessee Brindle was bred primarily for its hunting capabilities. Its physical attributes reflect this focus, with performance taking precedence over appearance.

Stamina: These dogs have impressive stamina, enabling them to engage in prolonged hunts without tiring easily. Their endurance is matched by their ability to navigate difficult terrains efficiently.

Sense of Smell: The Treeing Tennessee Brindle has a superior sense of smell, which it uses to detect prey from significant distances. This heightened olfactory ability is crucial for tracking and locating game.

Treeing Skills: True to their name, these dogs excel at treeing. They have an innate ability to track prey and force it up into the trees, then alert hunters with their distinctive bark. This skill makes them invaluable in hunting scenarios, particularly in wooded areas.

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle combines physical strength, agility, and keen senses, making it a formidable hunting companion. Its distinctive brindle coat, practical grooming needs, and optimized physical features highlight the breed’s unique qualities and contributions to the world of hunting dogs. Whether in the field or at home, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle’s physical characteristics make it a standout breed known for both its beauty and performance.

Temperament and Behavior

Intelligence and Trainability

Treeing Tennessee Brindles are renowned for their high intelligence and curiosity. These traits make them easily trainable and eager to learn new tasks. Their strong hunting and treeing skills, inherited from cur dogs, make them exceptional at tracking and treeing game. These dogs excel in various training exercises and are quick to pick up commands and tasks, making them ideal companions for active families who enjoy engaging with their pets.

Loyalty and Companionship

These dogs are loyal and friendly, forming strong bonds with their family members. Treeing Tennessee Brindles thrive on companionship and are known for their affectionate nature. They enjoy spending time with their family, often curling up at their owner’s feet, and adapt well to a relaxed household environment if their physical and mental needs are met.

Vocal Tendencies

One of the breed’s notable characteristics is its vocal tendencies. Treeing Tennessee Brindles have a distinctive baying bark used to alert hunters to their location and the presence of game. This loud bark, while useful in the field, can be a consideration for pet owners in noise-sensitive areas. However, with proper training and positive reinforcement, these vocal tendencies can be managed effectively.

Exercise and Calmness

Treeing Tennessee Brindles are extremely laid back when they receive adequate exercise, showing a calm demeanor at home. Despite their high energy levels outdoors, they can be very calm and relaxed indoors. Regular physical activity is crucial to maintaining this balance, ensuring they remain content and well-behaved at home.

Prey Drive and Socialization

These dogs are known for their strong prey drive, a beneficial trait for hunting but one that requires careful management in a home environment. Pet owners should be cautious when introducing Treeing Tennessee Brindles to smaller pets, as their instinct to chase and tree might be triggered. Early socialization with other dogs and pets can help mitigate this behavior, ensuring harmonious cohabitation.

Protective Nature

Treeing Tennessee Brindles are highly protective and can serve as excellent guard dogs. Their keen senses and alert nature make them quick to respond to potential threats, ensuring the safety of their family and home. This protective instinct, combined with their loyalty, makes them reliable and trustworthy companions, providing both security and affection to their families.

Care and Maintenance

Treeing Tennessee Brindle care is essential for maintaining the health and happiness of these dogs, emphasizing the importance of regular exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming.

Regular exercise is crucial for keeping your dog healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and activities that challenge their minds are necessary to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Grooming should also be part of your routine to keep their coat clean and free of mats.

Exercise Needs:

Treeing Tennessee Brindles have high energy levels and require significant daily exercise to remain happy and healthy. Ideally, they need 60-90 minutes of exercise each day, which can be broken into multiple sessions. Activities such as long walks, hikes, jogging, and playtime in a securely fenced yard are excellent ways to keep them physically engaged.

Engaging them in activities that mimic their natural hunting and treeing instincts, such as agility training, scent games, and fetch, can be particularly beneficial. These activities not only provide physical exercise but also stimulate their minds, preventing boredom and associated destructive behaviors.

Treeing Tennessee Brindles thrive in environments where they can explore and use their natural skills. Regular outdoor activities in varied terrains help maintain their physical fitness and mental well-being. Owners should be prepared to dedicate time and effort to meet the exercise needs of this energetic breed.

To keep their minds sharp, consider puzzle toys and interactive games that challenge their problem-solving abilities. Participating in AKC companion events can also be a great way to channel their energy and intelligence into productive activities.

Grooming Needs:

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle’s short, smooth coat is relatively low maintenance compared to other breeds. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hair and keep the coat healthy and shiny. A soft-bristled brush or a grooming mitt can be used to gently lift loose fur and distribute natural oils, enhancing the coat’s condition.

Regular grooming sessions also provide an opportunity to check for signs of skin issues, parasites, and other potential health problems. Given their love for outdoor activities, it’s essential to inspect for ticks, fleas, and other critters that might attach to their fur.

In addition to coat care, regular dental hygiene is crucial for the Treeing Tennessee Brindle. Brushing their teeth several times a week helps prevent tartar buildup and dental disease. Providing dental chews and toys can also support oral health.

Nail trimming should be done regularly to prevent overgrowth and associated discomfort. Checking and cleaning their ears weekly can help prevent ear infections, especially since their droopy ears can trap dirt and moisture.

Diet:

A high-quality, balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and energy levels of the Treeing Tennessee Brindle. Look for commercial dog foods that list real meat as the first ingredient and avoid those with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. The diet should be appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Feeding them twice a day, rather than one large meal, can help prevent digestive issues and keep their energy levels stable throughout the day. Portion control is essential to prevent obesity, a common issue that can lead to other health problems.

Treats should be given in moderation and used primarily as a reward during training. Ensure that treats do not make up more than 10% of their daily caloric intake to avoid unnecessary weight gain.

Read More: How to Choose the Best Dry Dog Food

Training the Treeing Tennessee Brindle

Training a Treeing Tennessee Brindle requires understanding their natural instincts and leveraging their intelligence and eagerness to please. Known for their exceptional treeing abilities, these dogs are highly trainable and responsive to structured, consistent training methods. Here’s a detailed guide on how to train your Treeing Tennessee Brindle, with a special focus on developing their treeing skills.

Basic Obedience Training

Before diving into specialized training for treeing, it’s essential to establish a foundation of basic obedience. This ensures that your Treeing Tennessee Brindle understands fundamental commands and builds a strong bond between you and your dog.

• Start Early: Begin training as soon as you bring your puppy home. Early socialization and training help prevent behavioral issues and set the stage for more advanced training.
• Basic Commands: Teach basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel.” Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats, praise, and play to encourage desired behaviors.
• Consistency: Be consistent with your commands and expectations. Consistency helps your dog understand what is expected and reinforces learning.

Read More: Dog Training 101

Specialized Training for Treeing

Once your dog has mastered basic obedience, you can start focusing on specialized training to enhance their natural treeing abilities.

• Introduce Scents: Start by introducing your Treeing Tennessee Brindle to various scents associated with the game you intend to hunt. Use scent training kits or items with the scent of the target animal.
  • Scent Trails: Create scent trails using scent markers or dragging a scent-soaked rag. Encourage your dog to follow the trail to its source.
• Encourage Natural Behaviors: Allow your dog to explore wooded areas and encourage their natural instinct to chase and tree animals. Use a long leash to maintain control while giving them the freedom to follow scents.
• Reward Treeing Behavior: When your dog successfully trees an animal (even during play or training simulations), reward them with treats and praise. Positive reinforcement reinforces the behavior you want to encourage.

Treeing Training Techniques

To train your Treeing Tennessee Brindle specifically for treeing, follow these steps:

• Use a Squirrel or Raccoon Hide: Attach a squirrel or raccoon hide to a long pole or rope. Drag it along the ground to simulate the movement of prey and then lift it into a tree.
  • Simulate Treeing: Lift the hide into a tree, encouraging your dog to follow the scent trail and locate the hide in the tree.
• Encourage Barking: Encourage your dog to bark and stay focused on the tree where the hide is placed. Reward them for barking and maintaining their attention on the tree.
• Gradual Introduction: Gradually increase the difficulty by using live training aids (if legal and ethical in your area) or more complex scent trails. Always ensure that your training methods are humane and consider the welfare of both your dog and the training aids.

Advanced Training Tips

• Use Calls and Commands: Train your dog to respond to specific calls or commands associated with hunting. This can include recall commands, directional commands, and commands to start or stop barking.
• Simulated Hunts: Set up simulated hunts with other experienced hunters and their dogs. This provides a realistic environment for your dog to practice and hone their skills.
• Consistency and Patience: Consistent training sessions and patience are key. Treeing dogs require time to develop their skills fully, so be patient and maintain a regular training schedule.

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Distraction Control: Treeing Tennessee Brindles are naturally curious and can be easily distracted. Use training sessions to work on maintaining focus and ignoring distractions.
• Over-Barking: While barking is a key component of treeing, excessive barking can be problematic. Use training to teach your dog to bark on command and stop when instructed.
• Physical Fitness: Ensure your dog is in good physical condition. Treeing requires stamina and strength, so regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential.

Training a Treeing Tennessee Brindle requires dedication, patience, and an understanding of their unique instincts and abilities. With consistent, positive reinforcement and specialized training techniques, you can develop a skilled and reliable hunting companion.

Health Considerations for a Healthy Breed

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a generally healthy breed with specific health considerations. Generally, Treeing Tennessee Brindles are robust and healthy dogs but are susceptible to certain health problems like hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for early detection and management of health issues. Maintaining a balanced diet and dental hygiene contributes to their overall well-being and longevity. It is also important to monitor their weight and ensure they get enough exercise to prevent obesity-related health problems.

Living Conditions

While adaptable to apartment living with adequate exercise, Treeing Tennessee Brindles thrive in homes with a fenced yard where they can run and play safely. They can live with other dogs and breeds if introduced and socialized properly but have a strong prey drive that requires caution around smaller pets. Their active and curious nature makes them best suited for families who can provide ample physical and mental stimulation.

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Similar Breeds

Plott Hound: Plott Hounds share similar hunting abilities and physical characteristics with the Treeing Tennessee Brindle. They are known for their tenacity and tracking skills. Like the Treeing Tennessee Brindle, Plott Hounds are excellent hunting companions and have a strong prey drive.

Mountain Cur: Mountain Curs have comparable origins and are used in hunting. They are versatile working dogs with a strong prey drive and a loyal, protective nature. This breed, like the Treeing Tennessee Brindle, is known for its intelligence and hunting abilities.

Black Mouth Cur: Black Mouth Curs share the Cur lineage with similar temperament and physical traits. They are loyal and protective, making excellent family pets. These dogs are known for their versatility and ability to perform various tasks, from hunting to herding.

Redbone Coonhound: Redbone Coonhounds are known for their treeing abilities and friendly nature, making them great companions for families and active owners. They share the Treeing Tennessee Brindle’s love for the outdoors and their exceptional hunting skills.

Conclusion

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is an excellent choice for active families and hunters, combining intelligence, loyalty, and strong hunting instincts. This breed’s unique characteristics make it a versatile and capable companion for those who can meet its exercise and training needs. Responsible breeding practices are crucial to ensure the health and well-being of this rare breed, maintaining its unique characteristics and health standards. It is important to find ethical and reputable breeders when considering the Treeing Tennessee Brindle breed. With proper care, training, and socialization, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle can thrive and become a beloved member of any family. If you are looking for a dog that is loyal, intelligent, and full of energy, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle might be the right dog for you.