Tibia Deformity

• While tibia deformities are not common among Redbone coonhounds, a genetic disorder exists among dogs in general called osteochondrodysplasia (OCD). OCD expresses itself throughout the body affecting the normal growth and development of bones and cartilages. A form of OCD is achondroplasia specifically affecting the bones of one or more of the legs.
  
  

Hip dysplasia

• Redbone coonhounds are not subject to a breed specific genetic disorder. However, all Redbone coonhound owners should monitor new puppies for symptoms of hip dysplasia. This malformation of the hip joint generally occurs early on and becomes diagnosable at four months. If not treated, hip dysplasia can cause persistent arthritis and/or loss of function.
  
  

Food For Thought

• Redbone coonhounds did not exist as a breed until the 1800s when hunters began a selective breeding program to create a solid-red coated hunting dog. The close selection of its progenitors may explain why Redbone coonhounds have so few genetic disorders.