American Foxhound

Size: Large
Other Names: Foxhound, Fox Hound
Country of Origin: United States
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Hound
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Hounds
United Kennel Club (UKC): Scenthound
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized

Height:

Male: 26–29 inches; Female: 25–28 inches

Weight:

Male: 65–75 pounds; Female: 40–65 pounds

Color(s):

Red, tricolor, black and tan, blue

Coat:

Short, hard

Description:

The American Foxhound is a breed of dog that is cousin to the English Foxhound.  They are scent hounds, bred to hunt foxes by scent.  Today, there are several different strains of American Foxhound, including Walker, Goodman, Trigg, July and Penn–Marydel.  Though the different strains look quite different, they are all recognized as members of the same breed.  Most show hounds are Walkers, many of the pack hounds (used with hunting foxes on horseback) are Penn–Marydel and hunters use a variety of strains to suit their hunting style and quarry.

Temperament:

The American Foxhound is sweet, kind, loyal, and very loving at a home.  Foxhounds are easy to live with and thrive as members of a family (pack).  They get along very well with children, especially small children.  As with all dogs, always be watchful when children and animals are interacting, as it is not beyond any animal to bite or claw when they feel they are threatened.  Foxhounds are not ideal apartment dogs, and should not be left alone indoors for extended periods of time.  Foxhounds do not make good watchdogs, as they will often greet the newcomer affectionately hoping for treats or scratches behind the ears.  Foxhounds are not nuisance barkers, but they do have loud, deep voices that carry a great distance.  Although most people love the sound, many urban or suburban neighbors do not appreciate the deep barks or melodious howling of a foxhound.

Training:

As with all hounds, the American Foxhound needs careful training, and constant socialization.  Training can be challenging, as the Foxhound can be stubborn.  He responds well to positive reinforcement.  While on the hunt, the Foxhound is a warrior.  Once a scent is picked up, he will follow it, often neglecting any commands.

Care & Grooming:

American Foxhounds need ample exercise, such as a fairly long walk, followed by a game of fetch.  Bored Foxhounds will find ways to keep themselves entertained, which can be very destructive.  Intelligent creatures as they are, many Foxhounds quickly learn to open gates, or scale small fences to go wandering.  Because their hunting instinct is strong, they should never be trusted off–lead.  Foxhounds are rarely street savvy, and will follow a scent trail into the street where they could get hit by a car.  Overfeeding these dogs can easily cause them to gain weight.

Shedding:

Low to moderate.

Health:

American Foxhounds are generally robust, but hip dysplasia, ear infections, and a platelet disorder (thrombocytopathy) can occur.  Their long ears should be kept clean and dry.

Lifespan:

11–13 years

Litter Size:

5–8 puppies