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American Foxhound

Origin: United States

AKC Group: Hound

Height: 21 inches (Male)

Weight: 65 pounds (Male)

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Origin:

United States

Male height:

21 inches

Male weight:

65 pounds

Coat:

Close, hard hound coat; medium length.

Colors:

All colors.

History:

The American Foxhound's roots can be found in the English Foxhound, who formed the general basis for the American version. In fact, English Foxhounds are thought to have arrived in the United States, where they were used to hunt foxes, as early as the mid-1600s. The American Foxhound is a direct descendent of the English hound, crossed with French hounds whom General Lafayette gave to George Washington, an avid foxhunter who knew all of his hounds personally. These French hounds were prized for their abilities and beautiful voices. The resulting American Foxhound and his line were bred to be larger and faster than the English hounds, and they still are today.

Personality:

Although sweet and gentle at home, when out with the pack the American Foxhound is all business. The field-bred American Foxhound thrives on pack life. Those bred for the show ring are more amenable to life in the home, where they can still be aloof with strangers and will be happy to "cry" - a foxhunting term for baying loudly and long.

At home:

American Foxhounds need space and plenty of room to run. This means that an apartment may not be ideal for them. However, if you are dedicated to getting your Foxhound out for plenty of exercise, he can adjust to urban living. Keep in mind that they enjoy using their voice, which may not please your neighbors. They are pack animals and don't do well if left alone for long periods - they need your attention. A fenced-in yard is ideal, but if you don't have one, you can get by with long walks on leash.

Recommended activities:

It's no surprise that the American Foxhound excels at hunting trials - it's what he was born and bred to do.

Exercise:

The American Foxhound needs plenty of exercise - he was bred to be out for six to eight hours on a single hunt, often hunting several times a week. If not exercised enough, he can become destructive.

Feeding:

The American Foxhound needs a balanced, high-quality diet to stay healthy. He has a tendency to gain weight easily, so feeding a nutritious diet is even more important.

Training:

The Foxhound is extremely scent driven and could be considered "focus challenged" when it comes to doing what his owner wants him to do. Patience is required when teaching this hound basic manners. He can be difficult to housetrain as well.

Compatibility:

The American Foxhound is mild mannered and gets along well with children. Used to living in packs, they can usually live harmoniously with other dogs. They can't always be trusted with smaller animals, especially the field-bred Foxhounds.

Health:

The average life span of the American Foxhound is 10 to 13 years. Breed health concerns may include deafness; eye problems; hip dysplasia; and thrombocytopathy.

Fun fact:

Various strains of American Foxhounds have persisted over the years. Famous lines such as the Henry Birdsong and July hounds date from the early 1800s, as do the Walker strains.

Grooming blurb:

The American Foxhound's short coat requires only occasional brushing with a stiff brush or hound glove and bathing only if absolutely necessary.

Disclaimer:

Copyright by T.F.H. Publications, Inc. This document has been published with the intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter within. While every reasonable precaution has been taken in preparation of this document, the author and publisher expressly disclaim responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained herein. The techniques and suggestions are used at the reader's discretion.