Are you considering adopting an English Foxhound as your next pet? If so, you’re in for a treat! The English Foxhound is a stunning breed that boasts a rich history and a lovable personality. These dogs are known for their hunting skills and their ability to work alongside humans, making them great companions for active families or individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the English Foxhound breed, their temperament, grooming needs, and more, to help you determine if this breed is the right fit for you.
Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: England
Average Size:55-62 cm
Average Weight:29-34 kg
Average Life Span: 10-13 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High
History and Origin
The English Foxhound is a breed of dog that has been around for centuries. It is believed that the breed was developed in England during the 16th century, specifically for the purpose of hunting foxes. The breed is known for its incredible sense of smell, stamina, and agility, which make it an excellent hunting companion.
The English Foxhound is a descendant of the St. Hubert Hound, which was brought to England by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. The St. Hubert Hound was a large, heavy dog that was used for hunting deer and wild boar. Over time, the breed was crossed with other hounds, including the Greyhound and the Bloodhound, to create a lighter, faster dog that was better suited for hunting foxes.
The English Foxhound became very popular in England during the 18th and 19th centuries, when fox hunting became a popular sport among the aristocracy. The breed was used to hunt foxes in packs, with a group of dogs working together to track and corner the prey. The sport of fox hunting was eventually banned in England in 2004, but the English Foxhound remains a popular breed for hunting and as a family pet.
The English Foxhound is a medium to large-sized dog, with a muscular build and a short, dense coat. The breed comes in a variety of colors, including black, tan, and white, and has long, floppy ears and a long, tapered tail. The breed is known for its friendly and outgoing personality, and is generally good with children and other animals.
Today, the English Foxhound is still used for hunting, but is also a popular breed for dog shows and as a family pet. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club, and there are many breeders and rescue organizations dedicated to the breed. Despite its long history and popularity, the English Foxhound remains a relatively rare breed, with only a few thousand registered each year.
In conclusion, the English Foxhound is a breed of dog with a long and fascinating history. Developed in England for the purpose of hunting foxes, the breed has become a beloved companion for many families around the world. With its friendly personality, incredible sense of smell, and impressive stamina, the English Foxhound is a breed that is
Size and Breed Category
The English Foxhound is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that is known for its exceptional hunting skills. These dogs are typically between 55-70cm in height and weigh around 25-34kg. They have a muscular build with a deep chest and strong legs that allow them to run for long distances without getting tired. Their coat is short and dense, which helps to protect them from the elements while they are out hunting. The English Foxhound comes in a variety of colours, including black, tan, and white, and they have a distinctive, noble appearance that is sure to turn heads.
As their name suggests, the English Foxhound was originally bred for fox hunting. They are part of the hound group of dogs, which means that they have a keen sense of smell and are able to track prey over long distances. English foxhounds are known for their stamina and endurance, which makes them ideal for hunting in packs. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them a popular choice for police and military work. Despite their hunting instincts, English Foxhounds are also known for their friendly and sociable nature, which makes them great family pets. They are loyal and affectionate towards their owners and get along well with children and other pets.
Fur Length and Colour
The fur of the English Foxhound is short and dense, providing excellent protection against the harsh weather conditions of the British countryside. The fur is typically a combination of black, white, and tan, with the black and tan forming a saddle pattern on the back. The white fur is usually found on the chest, legs, and tail. The fur is glossy and smooth, giving the English Foxhound a sleek and athletic appearance. The fur colouration is important for hunters, as it allows them to easily spot the hounds in the field.
The length of the fur on the English Foxhound is uniform across the body, with no areas of longer or shorter fur. This consistency in fur length helps to maintain the hound’s streamlined appearance, allowing it to move quickly and efficiently through the terrain. The fur is also easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to remove any loose hairs. The colour and length of the fur are important characteristics of the English Foxhound, contributing to its distinctive appearance and suitability for hunting in the British countryside.
Termperament and Trainability
English Foxhounds are known for their friendly and sociable temperament. They are highly energetic and require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. These dogs are also very loyal and affectionate towards their owners, making them great family pets. However, due to their strong hunting instincts, they may not be suitable for households with smaller pets such as cats or rabbits. English Foxhounds are also known for their loud baying, which can be a nuisance to neighbours.
When it comes to trainability, English Foxhounds can be a bit stubborn. They have a strong sense of independence and may not always follow commands. However, with patience and consistency, they can be trained to obey basic commands and even participate in activities such as agility and obedience competitions. It is important to start training early and use positive reinforcement methods to encourage good behaviour. English Foxhounds also benefit from socialisation with other dogs and people to help them develop good manners and reduce any potential aggression towards strangers.
Known Health Conditions
English Foxhounds are a breed of dog that are known to be prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that English Foxhounds face is hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. English Foxhounds may also be prone to ear infections, which can be caused by their long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and bacteria. Additionally, this breed may be at risk for certain eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma. It is important for owners of English Foxhounds to be aware of these potential health issues and to take their dogs for regular check-ups with a veterinarian.
Another health condition that English Foxhounds may be prone to is obesity. This breed has a tendency to overeat and can quickly become overweight if their diet is not carefully monitored. Obesity can lead to a range of health problems, including joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes. English Foxhounds may also be at risk for certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and osteosarcoma. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to prevent obesity and reduce the risk of these health issues. Owners of English Foxhounds should work closely with their veterinarian to develop a diet and exercise plan that is appropriate for their dog’s individual needs.
Openness to Strangers
English Foxhounds are known for their friendly and sociable nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is always eager to meet new people and make new friends. Their outgoing personality makes them a popular choice for families with children, as they are patient and gentle with kids. These dogs are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners, which makes them excellent companions. They are always ready to greet their owners with wagging tails and happy barks, and they are quick to show their affection. English Foxhounds are a breed that is always ready to make new friends and welcome strangers with open paws.
English Foxhounds are a breed that is known for their adaptability and ease of training. They are intelligent dogs that are quick to learn new commands and tricks. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners who are looking for a breed that is easy to train. English Foxhounds are also known for their high energy levels, which makes them great companions for active individuals. They love to run and play, and they are always up for a good game of fetch. These dogs are also known for their love of the outdoors, and they are happiest when they are out exploring new places. English Foxhounds are a breed that is always ready for an adventure, and they are sure to make any outing a fun and exciting experience.
Playfulness Level
The English Foxhound is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of running and chasing, making them a popular choice for hunting and outdoor activities. Their playful nature also makes them great companions for families with children, as they enjoy playing games and participating in activities with their human counterparts.
Despite their high energy levels, English Foxhounds are also known for their gentle and affectionate personalities. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, and enjoy spending time with them both indoors and outdoors. Their playful nature and love of activity make them a great choice for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and participating in physical activities. Overall, the English Foxhound is a fun-loving and energetic breed that is sure to bring joy and excitement to any household.
Suitability as a Pet for Children
English Foxhounds have a friendly and sociable nature, making them a great choice as a pet for children. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, and are generally good with other dogs and pets. As a breed, they are energetic and require regular exercise, which can be a great way for children to stay active and engaged with their pet. However, their strong hunting instincts mean that they may not be suitable for families with smaller pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs. Overall, the English Foxhound can make a wonderful addition to a family with children who are looking for an active and loyal companion.
Exercise Needs
English Foxhounds are a highly active breed that require plenty of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium to large-sized breed, they need a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day, which should include both physical and mental stimulation. 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, they have a strong sense of smell and enjoy tracking scents, so scent work or nose work can be a great way to provide mental stimulation. It is important to note that English Foxhounds have a high prey drive, so they should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area when outside.
In addition to physical exercise, English Foxhounds also benefit from mental stimulation. This breed is intelligent and enjoys learning new things, so training sessions can be a great way to provide mental exercise. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy working with their owners. Puzzle toys and interactive games can also be used to provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom. It is important to note that English Foxhounds are social dogs and enjoy spending time with their owners and other dogs. They thrive in environments where they have plenty of opportunities to interact with others, so regular trips to the dog park or playdates with other dogs can be beneficial for their overall well-being.
Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family
English Foxhounds have a strong hunting instinct and were originally bred for hunting foxes in packs. As a result, they may not get along well with smaller pets such as cats or rabbits. However, with proper socialization and training, they can coexist peacefully with other dogs and larger animals such as horses. It is important to supervise interactions between the English Foxhound and other pets to ensure everyone’s safety.
Housing Requirements
English Foxhounds require a spacious and secure living environment that allows them to move around freely. They are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise, so a large yard or access to open spaces is essential. A fenced-in area is also necessary to prevent them from wandering off and getting lost. Additionally, they need a comfortable and warm shelter to rest in after a long day of running and playing. A doghouse or kennel that is well-insulated and protected from the elements is ideal for this breed.
In terms of grooming, English Foxhounds have short, dense coats that require minimal maintenance. However, they do shed moderately throughout the year, so regular brushing is recommended to keep their coat healthy and shiny. They also need their ears checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections. As for their diet, English Foxhounds require a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their energy needs. High-quality dog food that is rich in protein and essential nutrients is recommended, along with plenty of fresh water.
Summary
English Foxhounds make great pets for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They have a lot of energy and require plenty of exercise, so they are best suited to homes with large gardens or access to open spaces. They are friendly and sociable dogs that get along well with children and other pets, making them a great addition to any household. However, they do have a strong hunting instinct, so it’s important to keep them on a leash or in a secure area when outside. With proper training and socialization, English Foxhounds can make loyal and loving companions.
English Foxhound Dog FAQS
English Foxhounds can be stubborn and independent, but with consistent training and positive reinforcement, they can be trained well.
No, English Foxhounds are not suitable for apartment living as they require a lot of space and exercise.
Yes, English Foxhounds are known to be good with children and make great family pets.
English Foxhounds have a strong prey drive and may not get along with smaller pets such as cats or rabbits. Proper socialization is important.
English Foxhounds are generally healthy, but they can be prone to hip dysplasia and ear infections.
Yes, English Foxhounds shed moderately and require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
English Foxhounds have a lifespan of 10-13 years.
English Foxhounds are high-energy dogs and require at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day.
English Foxhounds can grow up to 56-64 cm in height.
The average weight of an English Foxhound is between 25-34 kg.
Helena is aSenior Associate Veterinarian at Kleintierpraxis Wandsbek and an avid dog breed author.