American Foxhound Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you considering an American Foxhound as your next furry companion? This breed has a strong hunting instinct and loves to be outdoors, making them a great choice for active individuals or families. American Foxhounds are known for their friendly and sociable personalities, making them a great fit for households with children and other pets. However, their high energy levels and need for exercise and mental stimulation means they may not be the best fit for everyone. Read on to learn more about the American Foxhound breed and what it takes to provide them with a happy and healthy home.

Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: United States
Average Size:53-64 cm
Average Weight:29-34 kg
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The American Foxhound is a breed of dog that is known for its hunting abilities. It is a descendant of the English Foxhound, which was brought to America in the 17th century by English settlers. The breed was developed in the United States and has become a popular hunting dog in the country.

The American Foxhound was developed by crossing the English Foxhound with other breeds, including the French Hound and the Irish Foxhound. The breed was developed to be faster and more agile than the English Foxhound, which was better suited for hunting in the English countryside. The American Foxhound was bred to hunt in the open fields and forests of America.

The American Foxhound was first recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1886. The breed was originally used for hunting foxes, but it has also been used for hunting other game, such as deer and coyotes. The American Foxhound is known for its endurance and stamina, which makes it an excellent hunting dog.

The American Foxhound is a medium-sized dog that is typically between 21 and 25 inches tall at the shoulder. It has a short, dense coat that is usually black, white, and tan. The breed is known for its long, floppy ears and its friendly, outgoing personality. The American Foxhound is a social dog that enjoys being around people and other dogs.

The American Foxhound has been used in a number of famous hunts throughout history. One of the most famous hunts was the Virginia Foxhound Club’s annual Christmas hunt, which was attended by George Washington and other prominent figures. The American Foxhound has also been used in the sport of fox hunting, which was popular in the United States until it was banned in many states in the 20th century.

Today, the American Foxhound is still used for hunting, but it is also a popular companion dog. The breed is known for its loyalty and affectionate nature, which makes it a great family pet. The American Foxhound is also used in search and rescue operations, as well as in law enforcement. The breed’s keen sense of smell and its ability to track scents make it an excellent working dog.

In conclusion, the American Foxhound is a breed of dog that has a rich history and a strong connection to American culture. It is a versatile breed that is

Size and Breed Category

The American Foxhound is a large breed of dog that is known for its athletic build and impressive stamina. These dogs typically weigh between 29-34 kg and stand at a height of 56-64 cm at the shoulder. They have a lean, muscular body with a deep chest and long, powerful legs that allow them to run for hours on end. Their coat is short and dense, with a range of colours including black, white, tan, and red. American Foxhounds are bred for their hunting abilities and are known for their keen sense of smell and ability to track prey over long distances.

In terms of breed category, the American Foxhound is classified as a hound dog. Hounds are a group of dogs that have been bred for their hunting abilities, particularly their sense of smell and ability to track prey. Within the hound group, the American Foxhound is specifically classified as a scent hound, which means that they use their sense of smell to track and hunt prey. Other breeds in the scent hound category include the Basset Hound, Bloodhound, and Coonhound. American Foxhounds are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them popular pets for families and individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Fur Length and Colour

The American Foxhound has a short and dense fur coat that is designed to protect them from the harsh weather conditions. The fur is typically smooth and glossy, with a texture that is soft to the touch. The fur colour of the American Foxhound can vary, but it is usually a combination of black, white, and tan. The black colour is usually found on the back and ears, while the white colour is found on the chest, legs, and tail. The tan colour is usually found on the face and legs. The fur colour of the American Foxhound is an important characteristic that distinguishes them from other breeds of dogs.

The length of the fur on the American Foxhound is short and uniform, with no long hairs or tufts. The fur is designed to be low maintenance, and it does not require frequent grooming. The American Foxhound’s fur is also water-resistant, which makes it ideal for hunting in wet conditions. The fur is also hypoallergenic, which means that it is less likely to cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to dog hair. The fur length and colour of the American Foxhound are important characteristics that contribute to their overall appearance and functionality.

Termperament and Trainability

The American Foxhound is a breed known for its friendly and sociable temperament. They are highly energetic and love to be around people, making them great family pets. They are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, making them a popular choice for those looking for a companion animal. However, due to their high energy levels, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also known for their strong hunting instincts, which can sometimes make them difficult to train. However, with patience and consistency, they can be trained to follow commands and become well-behaved pets.

In terms of trainability, the American Foxhound can be a challenge for inexperienced dog owners. They have a strong independent streak and can be stubborn at times, which can make training difficult. However, they are also highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are quick learners and can excel in activities such as agility and obedience training. It is important to start training early and be consistent with commands and expectations to ensure success. Overall, the American Foxhound is a breed that requires an experienced and patient owner who is willing to put in the time and effort to train them properly.

Known Health Conditions

American Foxhounds are a breed of dog that are known to be prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that American Foxhounds face is hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. American Foxhounds are also at risk of developing ear infections due to their long, floppy ears. These ears can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to infections that can be painful and difficult to treat. Additionally, American Foxhounds may be prone to certain eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss if left untreated.

Another health condition that American Foxhounds may face is hypothyroidism. This is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, leading to a range of symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. American Foxhounds may also be at risk of developing bloat, which is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. This can cause a range of symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing. Finally, American Foxhounds may be prone to certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and osteosarcoma, which can be difficult to treat and may require aggressive treatment such as chemotherapy.

Openness to Strangers

American Foxhounds are known for their friendly and outgoing nature towards strangers. They are a breed that loves to socialize and interact with people, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. Their open and welcoming attitude towards strangers makes them a popular choice for those looking for a friendly and sociable pet. American Foxhounds are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, making them a great addition to any household.

In addition to their friendly nature, American Foxhounds are also known for their high energy levels and love for exercise. They are a breed that thrives on physical activity and enjoys being outdoors. This makes them a great choice for those who enjoy hiking, running, or other outdoor activities. American Foxhounds are also known for their intelligence and trainability, making them a great choice for those who are looking for a pet that is easy to train and eager to please. Overall, the American Foxhound is a great choice for those who are looking for a friendly, energetic, and sociable pet that loves to interact with people.

Playfulness Level

The American Foxhound is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of running and chasing, making them a great companion for active individuals or families. Their playful nature is evident in their love for games such as fetch and tug-of-war, which they can play for hours on end. Additionally, their high energy levels make them excellent hunting dogs, as they have the stamina to keep up with their prey for extended periods of time.

Despite their playful nature, American Foxhounds require a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They thrive in environments where they have plenty of space to run and play, such as large yards or open fields. Owners should also provide them with plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained, as they can become easily bored if left alone for too long. Overall, the American Foxhound’s playful nature makes them a great addition to active households, but they require a significant amount of attention and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

American Foxhounds have a friendly and sociable nature, making them a great choice as a pet for children. They are known for their high energy levels and love for exercise, which can be a great way for children to stay active and engaged with their pet. Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance option for families. However, their strong hunting instincts may require some training and supervision around smaller pets. Overall, the American Foxhound can make a wonderful addition to a family with children who are active and willing to provide the necessary exercise and training.

Exercise Needs

American Foxhounds are a highly energetic breed that require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium to large-sized breed, they require at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, which can be broken up into two or three shorter sessions. This breed is known for their love of running and chasing, so activities such as jogging, hiking, and playing fetch are ideal for them. Additionally, American Foxhounds have a strong sense of smell and enjoy tracking scents, so activities such as nose work or tracking can also be beneficial for their mental stimulation. It is important to note that American Foxhounds should always be exercised in a secure area, as they have a strong prey drive and may chase after small animals.

In addition to physical exercise, American Foxhounds also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility courses are all great ways to challenge their minds and keep them engaged. This breed also thrives on social interaction and enjoys spending time with their owners and other dogs. Regular playdates or trips to the dog park can provide them with the socialization they need. It is important to remember that American Foxhounds were bred for hunting and have a strong instinct to follow scents, so they should always be supervised when off-leash. With proper exercise and mental stimulation, American Foxhounds can make wonderful companions for active families.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

American Foxhounds have a reputation for being friendly and sociable with other pets. They are known to get along well with other dogs and cats, as long as they are properly socialized from a young age. However, it is important to note that every dog is unique and may have different tendencies when it comes to interacting with other animals. It is always recommended to supervise any interactions between pets and introduce them slowly and carefully.

Housing Requirements

The American Foxhound is a breed of dog that requires a spacious and secure living environment. They are highly active and energetic dogs that need plenty of room to run and play. A large, fenced yard is ideal for this breed, as they have a strong hunting instinct and may chase after small animals if given the opportunity. Additionally, they require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. A home with an active family that enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking or running would be a great fit for this breed.

In terms of indoor housing, the American Foxhound is a relatively low-maintenance breed. They do not require a specific type of housing, but they do need a comfortable and cozy space to rest and relax after a long day of activity. A soft bed or crate with plenty of blankets is ideal for this breed, as they enjoy snuggling up and getting cozy. Additionally, they should have access to fresh water and food at all times, as they have a healthy appetite and require a balanced diet to maintain their energy levels. Overall, the American Foxhound is a great breed for active families who have plenty of space and love to give.

Summary

American Foxhounds are a popular choice for pet owners due to their friendly and sociable nature. They are known for their high energy levels and love of exercise, making them a great companion for active individuals or families. With proper training and socialization, they can get along well with other pets and children. However, their strong hunting instincts may make them unsuitable for households with small animals such as cats or rabbits. Overall, American Foxhounds can make loyal and loving pets for those who are willing to provide them with plenty of exercise and attention.

American Foxhound Dog FAQS