Coat:
Short, hard, glossy, dense.
Colors:
Black, tan, white, any combination of these colors, "pies" comprising white and various colors of the hare and badger, or yellow, or tan.
Personality:
The English Foxhound is a noble fellow who is the epitome of a hunting dog. Pack hounds are so active, athletic and scent-driven that they can have a tough time transitioning to home and hearth. There are show lines of English Foxhounds whose temperaments are better suited to indoor living, and it's essential that a prospective owner explore these first. As the quintessential pack animal, the English Foxhound generally gets along well with others, and he is a gentle and affectionate dog.
At home:
Even the show lines of the English Foxhound, which tend to be less driven than the field type, are not well suited to apartment life. They can adapt to the suburbs, provided they are given enough exercise and mental stimulation. This is a tireless breed, and it will become destructive if its needs are not satisfied. They are all-weather dogs and don't mind the wet or cold.
Recommended activities:
Like most foxhounds, the English Foxhound's favorite activity is hunting.
Exercise:
English Foxhounds who are born into hunting packs demand the exercise that the hunt provides. Those bred for show and companionship still need to have their strong desire for hunting in the great outdoors satisfied, and this is accomplished through plenty of exercise.
Feeding:
A high-quality diet is essential for the English Foxhound. This is not a breed used to human-style treats and snacks, which can cause digestive upset.
Training:
Socialization and patient training should start at puppyhood for this dog, not because he is difficult to get along with or unintelligent but because he is pack oriented and scent driven, which can make listening to his owner secondary to his own instincts.
Compatibility:
Although friendly with most people, including children, the English Foxhound seems to prefer the company of other dogs. He can get along with other pets if socialized to them.
Health:
The average life span of the English Foxhound is 9 to 11 years. Breed health concerns may include epilepsy; hip dysplasia; and kidney disease.
Grooming blurb:
The always dapper-looking English Foxhound is easy to keep clean with occasional brushing with a hound glove.
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.
