Don't be surprised if you don't see Tennessee's new Smokey dog on the sidelines. Here's why

Tennessee football's new Smokey needs a little more leeway to get used to the loud roar of 101,915 fans before he's fully ready for the big time.

Smokey XI, who was selected to replace his dad, Smokey X, will carry out the tradition of running through the "Power T" formed by the Pride of the Southland Band at the start of each home game, but he might not do much more than that, Tennessee Athletics spokesman Jason Baum said.

Just give the young pup a little more time to develop, Baum said.

"Smokey XI is still in training and acclimating to large crowds and loud environments," Baum told Knox News via email. "It is not uncommon for the dogs serving as the Smokey mascot to need time to adjust to running through the 'T' and the atmosphere in Neyland Stadium."

Smokey's other mascot responsibilities are on pause as Tennessee Athletics and Smokey's owners, the Hudson family, work with UT College of Veterinary Medicine College experts and his trainer to prioritize his needs.

The bluetick coonhound is the 11th dog to take on the mascot role.

Smokey XI is the son of Smokey X , who is enjoying his retirement. He lives with the Hudson family as well after serving from 2013-23.

Keenan Thomas is a higher education reporter. Email keenan.thomas@knoxnews.com . X, formerly known as Twitter @specialk2real .

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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Don't be surprised if you don't see Tennessee's new Smokey dog on the sidelines. Here's why