white with black and tan markings, is preferred, although bi-color dogs, black and white or tan and white, are acceptable. The Treeing Walker Coonhound has a clear bay on the trail, which should change to a distinct "chop" when treed. Its temperament should be kind but fearless and courageous on the hunt. The Treeing Walker Coonhound is bred primarily for the mouth, looks, and ability. It is first and foremost a hunting dog, although it may be kept as a pet. It is described as affectionate and good with children, but its energy requires an outlet and it must be trained. The Treeing Walker Coonhound lives an average of 12 to 13 years. Temperament Treeing Walker Coonhounds are loving, intelligent, confident, and enjoy interacting with humans. They make good companion dogs for an owner who understands the characteristics of the breed and is willing to work with their in-bred nature as a hunting dog. On the scent, they are tireless, alert, and intense. At home, they are mellow, sensitive lovers of comfort. Treeing Walker Coonhounds get along well with other dogs and with children. Like most hounds, they are even-tempered and difficult to annoy or drive into aggression towards people or fellow dogs. With training, they will coexist with small animals such as cats, despite their nature as a small-game hunter. Hunting The Treeing Walker Coonhound's strong tracking instincts make it popular as a hunting dog, primarily for bear, cougar, and bobcats. Hunting solo or in packs of two or more, they are used to track and tree raccoons, bobcats, cougars, and bears. Individual hounds may be adept at catching small animals such as squirrels, black rats, opossums, and skunks. Because of their speed, Treeing Walker Coonhounds may be used as deer-hunting dogs in states where hunting of antlered animals with dogs is legal. Although the Treeing Walker is best known as a coonhound, it is one of the most cold nosed dogs around. as other coonhounds. It is the most popular hound for competition coon hunts The treeing walker hound is one of the most popular because it is best known for speed, its cold nose and intelligence, and also for not being an aggressive like the Plot. Their cold nose and intelligence makes them much better for bobcat and cougar hunting, since these animals are normally harder to track than a bear or raccoon. See also Dogs portal