The Plott Hound are named after the Plott men who owned and bred these dogs. The Plott family bred these dogs for over 200 years. They were mountain men who bred the family dogs and used them to hunt bear, and from the 1930s on, occasionally boar.

As Plott men built their homes and raised their familles all over the Smoky Mountains, their dogs became known by their family name and were referred to as the Plott's Hounds. During that time hounds of similar breeding and type were raised by other mountain families and were likewise called bye their owner's family name.

After many generations the dogs needed an outcross. A Plott breeder chose another well respected family hound, the Belvins. The result was so exception that the Plott family even used them in their own breeding program. Because of this breeding program, some brindle Plott hounds have a black saddle.

The breed's "all-in-the-family" background makes it a fine companion. Loyal and intelligent, the Plott Hound is quick to learn and quick to love and is good with children. Their personable natures are surely not evident on the trail. This large game hunter and scent hound has great courage. Determined, courageous and proud, it will play chicken with a 500-pound papa bear or a ticked off boar. The Plott has a curiously sharp and high-pitched voice, unlike the deep-throated howl common to other coonhounds. Socialize this breed at an early age and be sure to teach it simple obedience like walking on a leash. This breed tends to drool and slobber.

They are a hunting hound that brings big game to bay or tree. They are intelligent, alert and confident. They are noted for their stamina, endurance, agility, courage and aggressiveness when hunting.

Males should be 20-25 inches tall and weigh 50-60 pounds. Females should be 20-23 inches tall and weigh 40-55 pounds. Their coat is smooth, fine and glossy. Their colors can be any shade of brindle. The main health concern with the breed is bloat.