Bloodhound Weight & Calorie Guide

Bloodhounds are ancient scent hounds with an unmatched sense of smell — they can track trails over 300 hours old. Originally bred in European monasteries and later refined in England, they are massive, gentle dogs with pendulous ears, deep-set eyes, and extensive facial wrinkling. Their large size and deep chest make them prone to bloat (GDV), a fatal emergency if not treated within hours. Joint problems are common in giant breeds, and excess weight directly accelerates hip and elbow degeneration. Their droopy ears trap moisture and bacteria, causing chronic infections that are harder to manage in overweight, less active dogs.

Exercise: Bloodhounds need 45–60 minutes of moderate daily exercise — long walks and scent-tracking games. They are endurance walkers rather than sprinters, following their nose wherever it leads. A securely fenced yard is essential; they will follow a trail through anything. Keep exercise low-impact to protect their joints.

Feeding tips: Feed 3–5 cups of large-breed formula daily in two meals to reduce bloat risk. Bloodhounds are notorious scavengers — secure trash and countertops. Measure every meal and avoid free-feeding. Clean and dry ears daily, especially after outdoor activity. Consider a raised feeding station after consulting your vet.

Keeping your Bloodhound at a healthy 80–110 lbs (36–50 kg) reduces bloat risk and preserves their joints. Use PawScale's calorie calculator for Bloodhounds to set exact daily limits, check body condition with our BCS assessment tool, and build a balanced meal plan with the feeding guide.