Large

Breed guide

Bloodhound Dog Breed Guide

Q: How much exercise does a Bloodhound need?

Bloodhounds typically need around 90 minutes of exercise per day.

World-class scent hound — gentle giant with an unstoppable nose. Drools heavily and needs secure fencing.

GentleDeterminedAffectionate

Find Available Dogs Near You Take the Match Quiz

Activity Needs90 min/day

Energy

Space need

Experience level

Care Profile

Intelligence

Trainability

Grooming

Health IssuesMedium

Bloat
Hip dysplasia
Ear infections

Typical Cost$150–$270/mo

Annual$1,800–$3,240

Lifetime$19,800–$35,640

Overview

The Bloodhound is a large-sized breed known for being gentle, determined, affectionate. With a typical lifespan of 10–12 years and exercise needs around 90 minutes per day, this breed suits owners who can match its energy and care requirements. World-class scent hound — gentle giant with an unstoppable nose. Drools heavily and needs secure fencing.

Personality & Temperament

Bloodhounds are widely described as gentle, determined, affectionate. They tend to score 4/5 on intelligence and 2/5 on trainability, which means they benefit from patient, structured training and may show an independent streak.

Energy Level

High (4/5). The Bloodhound typically needs around 90 minutes of daily exercise — including structured activity like running, fetch, or training sessions, not just leashed walks. Under-exercising this breed often leads to destructive behavior at home.

Compatibility With Kids & Other Pets

With children: 4/5 — Bloodhounds are generally patient and tolerant with kids who know how to interact with dogs respectfully.

With cats and other pets: 3/5 — mixed — depends heavily on early socialization and the individual cat's confidence.

Climate Suitability

Hot weather: Good. Cold weather: Good.

Common Mistakes New Bloodhound Owners Make

Under-exercising. Bloodhounds need 90+ minutes of real activity daily — leashed walks alone won't cut it.
Choosing this as a first dog. The breed's strength, drive, or independence rewards experienced handlers and frustrates beginners.
Late socialization. Large breeds need confident handling and varied exposure before 16 weeks — a fearful 80lb dog is a serious liability.
Buying from a backyard breeder. Insist on health-tested parents from a reputable breeder, or adopt from a breed-specific rescue.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much exercise does a Bloodhound need?

Around 90 minutes of daily activity, scaled to its high energy level.

Are Bloodhounds good with kids?

Yes — Bloodhounds are generally a kid-friendly breed when properly socialized.

How much does it cost to own a Bloodhound?

Plan for roughly $150–$270 per month in food, grooming, and routine vet care.

What is the lifespan of a Bloodhound?

10–12 years on average.

Good For

Houses with yards or rural property
Families with children
Active owners (runners, hikers)
Multi-pet households

Pros and Cons

Pros

✓ Generally good with children
✓ Typically gets along with other pets
✓ Minimal grooming required

Cons

✗ High exercise needs (90+ min/day)
✗ Independent streak — training takes patience
✗ Best suited for experienced owners

Is the Bloodhound Right for You?

The Bloodhound is a strong fit if you're houses with yards or rural property or families with children, and have time for daily structured exercise. It's likely not the right match if you have a sedentary lifestyle, are a first-time dog owner, live in a small apartment without easy outdoor access, have very limited time for daily care.

Not sure? Take our free 60-second quiz for a personalized match across our full breed database.