A breed only recently recognized by the AKC, the Plott is a large scenthound used for hunting a variety of large game. The breed is intelligent and certainly trainable, as long as the owner realizes that they are training a hound and makes accommodations for that fact! Some members of the breed are more dominant than others and may need more discipline. Sturdy and determined, they make great hunting dogs but require families that understand that they are different from many other breeds. Potential owners need to know what they are getting into before they buy one.
To their families, Plotts are very loyal, affectionate and gentle dogs. They get along very well with children as well as other pets, especially other dogs. As pack dogs, many prefer living in multiple-dog situations and often do best with at least one companion. They can be protective of their families and make good watchdogs or even guard dogs. Although slightly aloof around strangers, many are quite friendly once introduced.
Plotts also do well at being left home alone without fuss. When outside, many are quite active and alert, particularly if there happen to be woodland creatures about. Although they primarily hunted large creatures such as bears, boars and big cats, they will certainly chase after squirrels, rabbits… or anything that moves. In fact, when it comes to small animals, they are still used today for coon hunting. When hunting, it can be difficult to call a Plott off of an animal that it is actively going after. For this reason, a fully fenced yard is an absolute must for this breed, as is keeping him on-leash whenever he is out.
The breed is considered by many to be one of the toughest, most courageous hunting dogs in existence. Potential owners need to be aware of this. A Plott really isn’t a normal housedog, they are working dogs that will permit being housed as long as they are given the exercise and mental stimulation that they need. Preferably, an owner will bring the dog hunting but if that isn’t possible, the owner needs to offer alternatives such as tracking, agility or obedience. In fact, the Plott has a high activity level, meaning that they require exercise every day. They prefer running, swimming, and climbing but also appreciate slower walks because it gives them the opportunity to sniff everything! If they do not receive enough exercise they could become destructive, so it is in both your own interest as well as his to keep him fully exercised! It goes without saying that these are not apartment dogs.
While not considered “yippy”, they do have very loud and distinctive barks that they tend to use when hunting or when alerting an owner to a stranger at the door. When a household is active and rambunctious, the Plott tends to bark more because there is more excitement going on. A potential owner should be prepared for moderate to high-moderate barking.
