Billy is a determined and hardworking young boy growing up on a humble farm in the Ozark Mountains of Oklahoma during the Great Depression. Afflicted with a severe case of "dog-wanting disease," he spends two years taking on odd jobs to save enough money to purchase a pair of hunting hounds. He possesses a deep connection to nature and a strong sense of responsibility toward his family.

Old Dan is a male redbone coonhound and one of Billy's two prized hunting dogs. Larger and more belligerent than his sister, he exhibits an aggressive and single-minded approach to tracking raccoons. His unmatched bravery often leads him into dangerous, life-threatening situations in the wilderness.

Little Ann is a small, sweet-tempered female redbone coonhound. She relies on her sharp intellect and problem-solving skills to outsmart raccoons on the trail. Playful with the farm animals and cautious in danger, she perfectly balances her brother's reckless courage.

Billy's grandfather runs a local country store and serves as a vital supporter of Billy's dreams. He helps his grandson order the hound puppies from Kentucky and provides practical folk wisdom regarding hunting and trapping. He acts as a bridge between Billy's childhood aspirations and the adult world of competitive hunting.

Mama is Billy's deeply religious mother, who possesses Cherokee ancestry that allows the family to live on their tribal land allotment. She worries constantly about Billy's safety in the woods but tries to support his endeavors. She harbors a strong desire to eventually move her family to town so her children can receive a formal education.

Papa is a hardworking farmer who teaches Billy practical skills like setting traps and skinning game. He treats Billy with respect, slowly granting him the freedom to hunt at night as he matures. While emotionally reserved, he pays close attention to his son's development into a capable young man.

Rubin and Rainie Pritchard are rough, antagonistic brothers from a secluded family with a poor reputation upriver. They show signs of neglect and frequently pick fights or instigate trouble. They challenge Billy's hunting skills by betting him that his dogs cannot tree a legendary local raccoon known as the ghost coon.

The stationmaster in Tahlequah is a kind man who recognizes Billy's father. He guides Billy to the crate holding his puppies and displays sensitivity toward the boy's emotional reaction upon meeting his dogs for the first time.

A town law enforcement officer in Tahlequah. He breaks up a fight when local boys gang up on Billy. Impressed by Billy's determination and the distance he walked to get his hounds, the marshal buys the boy his first soda pop.