Hound · Rank #33 Most Popular Dog Breed
Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is one of the oldest scent hound breeds in the world, with origins traced to medieval Belgium and the monks of Saint-Hubert's Abbey. It possesses the most acute sense of smell of any dog breed, with a nose containing approximately 300 million scent receptors, making it invaluable in search-and-rescue and law enforcement tracking. Despite its imposing size and serious working ability, the Bloodhound is affectionate, gentle, and famously stubborn at home. Its long, wrinkled face and droopy ears are iconic hallmarks of the breed.
Ideal Weight
36-50 kg
Height
58-69 cm
Activity Level
Moderate (Daily Walks)
Life Expectancy
10-12 yrs
Feeding Guide
Bloodhounds are large, deep-chested dogs highly susceptible to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), so two to three smaller meals per day instead of one large meal is essential. Using a slow-feeder bowl and restricting exercise for at least an hour before and after meals can significantly reduce bloat risk. A high-quality large-breed diet helps support their heavy frame without promoting excessive weight gain.
Water Needs
Bloodhounds drool heavily and can dehydrate faster than many breeds; fresh water should be available at all times and replenished frequently, especially in warm weather.
Exercise Guide
Despite their size, Bloodhounds need moderate daily exercise of about 30–60 minutes; long, leisurely walks on leash satisfy their need to scent and explore. They must be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area, as their nose can compel them to follow a scent trail single-mindedly. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather due to their heavy build.
Common Health Issues in Bloodhounds
- Bloat (GDV)
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
- Ear Infections
- Ectropion/Entropion
- Skin Fold Infections
These are conditions commonly associated with the breed, not a diagnosis for your individual pet.
Bloodhound Calorie Calculator
Estimated Daily Calories
1881 kcal
5.4
Cups / day
645
Grams / day
Based on a generic 350 kcal/cup food. Use the full Calorie Calculator to enter your food's exact calorie density.
Bloodhound FAQs
How much should I feed a Bloodhound?
Bloodhounds are large, deep-chested dogs highly susceptible to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), so two to three smaller meals per day instead of one large meal is essential. Using a slow-feeder bowl and restricting exercise for at least an hour before and after meals can significantly reduce bloat risk. A high-quality large-breed diet helps support their heavy frame without promoting excessive weight gain. For a personalized daily calorie and portion estimate based on your Bloodhound's exact weight, age, and activity level, use the calculator above or our full Calorie Calculator.
How much exercise does a Bloodhound need?
Bloodhounds generally have moderate exercise needs. Despite their size, Bloodhounds need moderate daily exercise of about 30–60 minutes; long, leisurely walks on leash satisfy their need to scent and explore. They must be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area, as their nose can compel them to follow a scent trail single-mindedly. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather due to their heavy build.
How much water does a Bloodhound need?
Bloodhounds drool heavily and can dehydrate faster than many breeds; fresh water should be available at all times and replenished frequently, especially in warm weather. As a general guideline, most dogs need roughly 50-60 ml of water per kg of body weight daily -- use our Water Intake Calculator for an estimate based on your pet's exact weight.
What health issues are common in Bloodhounds?
Bloodhounds are commonly associated with Bloat (GDV), Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Ear Infections, Ectropion/Entropion, and Skin Fold Infections. This is general educational information, not a diagnosis -- regular veterinary checkups are the best way to catch and manage breed-related conditions early.
How big does a Bloodhound get?
A fully grown Bloodhound typically weighs 36.0-50.0 kg (79-110 lbs) and stands about 58-69 cm (23-27 in) tall at the shoulder, with a typical life expectancy of 10-12 years.
Medical Disclaimer
This tool provides general, educational estimates and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Breed-based estimates for the Bloodhound are general guidance and vary by individual dog or cat. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's specific health needs before making changes to their diet, water intake, or care routine.
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More Tools
Calorie Calculator
Full calorie calculator with custom food density.
Weight Checker
Check if your Bloodhound is at a healthy weight.
Body Condition Score Calculator
Assess your Bloodhound's body condition with a simple visual score.
Dog Age Calculator
Convert your Bloodhound's age into human years.
Water Intake Calculator
Estimate how much water your Bloodhound needs daily.
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