The bluetick coonhound is believed to originate from quick britain foxhounds crossed with various french hounds used for big game hunting, well known for being very cold nosed (meaning they follow old trails). George Washington recieved five such french hounds from General Lafayette.
Originally, the blueticks were registered as English coonhounds. The two were seperated in 1946 upon the Bluetick Fancier's request.
The bluetick coonhound should have a broad skull, with ears set below the top of the skull and reach well to the end up the nose. The eyes should be dark and not appear droopy. The muzzle should be square with enough lip to cover the lower jaw.
The shoulders should be placed slightly higher than the hips, yet with the slightest arch in the topline. The dog should be as long as it is tall, if not slightly longer. The neck should reach with a slight taper and be muscular. The chest should be deep, the back muscular. The legs are strong and muscular with well arched toes. The tail is attached slightly below the back line and carried in a half moon shape.