This breed was first registered in the United Kennel Club in 1946 as a separate breed, but originally fell under the English Foxhound and Coonhound. The breed is also recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council and the New Zealand Kennel Club. Breeders have started the process of obtaining recognition from the American Kennel Club.
A Bluetick Coonhound named "Smokey" is the official athletic mascot of the University of Tennessee.

