American Foxhound Dog Breed: Complete Breed Information

Loyal, kind, and intelligent, the American Foxhound is a trusted canine among dog owners. Full of energy, these dogs have plenty of stamina to keep up with you or your family. This hound makes an amazing pet because it thrives on interaction and enjoys staying by your side. With its long floppy ears and gentle eyes, you will fall in love and instantly connect with this charming breed.

 

 

American Foxhound Characteristics (Physical)

The American Fox hound may look like a Beagle, but it's not the same breed. It has a powerful nose that can pick up a scent and track it for miles. One of the first things you will notice is its large eyes are set apart and have a charming appearance. The ears are long and hanging, resting on the top of its head. They are somewhat floppy and do not point back up.

 

The Foxhound dog chest is deep to allow it to take deep breaths while running. Its front and back legs are well-toned and built to make giant leaps when chasing down foxes. It has a long, high tail with a slight curve and tapered, brush-like tip at the end. These adorable canines also have short coats that are easy for owners to maintain.

 

 

 

American Foxhound Size

Male American Foxhounds can grow between 22 to 28 inches tall with a weight between 45 to 65 pounds. Female American Foxhounds are just a tiny bit smaller. They weigh between 40 to 60 pounds and can grow to 21 to 24 inches tall. Large dog breeds can be intimidating for some people, and tiny dogs might not sound appealing to others. The American Foxhound is the perfect medium-sized dog that can easily fit in an apartment or large home with a huge backyard.

 

 

American Foxhound Personality

Foxhounds tend to be really friendly and protective of their families. They're used to being part of a pack, so they enjoy the company of others. This dog was bred to chase foxes for miles and miles non-stop while also keeping up with their owners on horseback. In the absence of hunting, the American Foxhound enjoys spending its high energy level on playtime. They're extremely playful and enjoy entertaining kids or joining you on a bike ride.

 

The American hound is pretty smart and enjoys learning everything it can. Aside from being full of stamina to run around, these dogs enjoy games that keep their minds sharp. To keep them stimulated, try hiding their favorite treat and watching them use their powerful nose to find it. Their intelligence might make them a little stubborn; this trait comes with most breeds in the hound dog group.

 

When an American Foxhound picks up a curious scent, it becomes single-minded and follows its trail until it finds the source. While they might ignore your commands in this state of mind, you can train them. The American Foxhound has a sweet nature and can easily get along with anyone that comes over, especially if they are socialized well.

 

 

American Foxhound Exercise

American Foxhounds will generally do better in homes with plenty of space for them to run around and satisfy their exercise needs. They can stay active for a few hours before taking a break. If you enjoy long walks and running every other day, this hound can keep up with you and is an excellent running partner. They may also benefit from participating in canine sports.

 

 

Training an American Foxhound 

Dogs are more likely to obey if they identify you as the alpha of the pack. American Foxhounds are very independent and will not respect an inexperienced or weak-minded trainer. But, if you hold firm boundaries and treat them with kindness, this breed will form a strong bond with you.

 

Don't punish your dog if it is struggling with training. Instead, use calming treats and positive reinforcement to train your American Foxhound and keep it encouraged. Whether you received it as a puppy or adopted it at an older age, it is essential to give it proper socialization training. A dog that's been socialized as a puppy, or in general, will have an easier time getting along with other pets and people.

 

 

 

American Foxhound Breed History

An English colonizing settler named Robert Brooke introduced the earliest hound dogs in America in the mid-1600s. For the next hundred years, these dogs were bred as hunting dogs with other European hounds, such as French foxhounds and the English Foxhound. George Washington and a French aristocrat named Marquis de Lafayette became close friends during the American Revolutionary War. Marquis de Lafayette gifted him with French hounds in 1785.

 

Washington and other American breeders continued to breed the dogs over the next couple of decades, and thus it eventually resulted in the American Foxhounds we know today. By 1886, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the American Foxhound as its own dog breed. Although they are mostly kept as pets, American Foxhounds are still used for hunting depending on the dog's age.

 

 

 

Common Health Problems

The American Foxhound is a very resilient breed with a life span of eight to fifteen years. However, there is an encyclopedia of health issues the dog might face. Whether you are adopting a puppy or rescue, you must know its health history:

 

• Thrombocytopathy: Thrombocytopathy is a fancy medical term for a blood platelet disorder. An American Foxhound with this health issue might have bleeding abnormalities if received a cut wound. With the help of a vet, this condition can be treated.
• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is one of the most common diseases canines encounter. It is not unique to just the American Foxhound. A dog with this health issue might limp, have trouble jumping, or lose muscle in the thighs. It can also lead to severe arthritis in some cases.
• Ear Infections: There is no denying how adorable the American Foxhound's ears are. As cute as they are, American Foxhound ears are prone to infection. If left unchecked, their ears can build up bacteria or yeast infections.

 

 

How to Care for an American Foxhound

Your American Foxhound will lead a healthier life if you meet its care expectations. Keep them in top-notch shape by completing these things:

• Feeding: Don't let your dog develop bad eating habits. Be mindful of how many treats or side dishes you share with your American Foxhound. Choose a dog food brand that best suits your dog and follow feeding instructions.
• Sleeping place: Make your dog feel safer at home by creating a little place for it to sleep or hide during a thunderstorm. You clean your bed sheets, so make sure to clean your American Foxhound's bed too.
• Exercise: American Foxhounds are highly energetic and require playtime and exercise. Ensure you are willing to dedicate an hour or two each day to help keep your American Foxhound mentally and physically happy.
• Grooming: Dedicate one day or two out of the week to check your dog's ears for debris or wax. Brush your American Foxhound's coat and teeth once a week. Keep their nails trimmed to prevent them from overgrowing.
• Veterinarian Checkups: This should be done yearly. It can help detect potential issues with their bodies earlier, which is key to successful treatment.

 

 

Nutrition and Feeding for an American Foxhound

We recommend feeding your American Foxhound 2-4 cups of food per day, split into two meals. That may seem like a large variance, but remember that this active dog breed's eating requirements can depend on its size, age, weight, and health. A puppy will require less food than a fully mature American Foxhound that weighs 55 pounds.

 

Related: How Heavy Should My Dog Be? 5 Ways to Tell if Your Dog is Overweight

 

Always select dog food of the highest quality and made with all-natural ingredients. The most reputable dog food brands include a feeding chart to help you measure out their food more accurately. Feed your American Foxhound twice a day and be mindful of how many treats you give throughout the day.

 

If you are unsure about sharing your food with your Foxhound, play it safe and don't do it. You may also refer to online resources such as the American Kennel Club for more advice on human food that is safe for dogs. If you suspect your dog may have ingested something toxic, contact your local animal hospital or an animal poison control center.

 

 

 

Coat Color And Grooming

American Fox hounds stay looking good with their coats. They have a short to medium-length coat that is easy to groom. This breed can have a combination of white, black, and tan with the possibility of blue, red, and cream shades as well. With so many types of coats possible, the American Foxhound is one stylish pup among large dog breeds.

 

Brushing helps remove dirt, debris, and dead skin cells while spreading healthy skin oils. You can brush your dog on an “as needed” basis, perhaps every week or two. This hound is not as furry as other dog breeds, so brushing is quick and painless. A special grooming glove or dog-specific brush is all that is required. A good time to brush your dog's coat is after a long walk while they rest by your side.

 

 

Children And Other Pets

You will feel at ease knowing your American Foxhound can get along and be patient and affectionate around your kids and other animals. Some dog breeds are fine being on their own, but the American Foxhound thrives on companionship. This breed enjoys being part of a pack, and that pack can include children and other pets such as cats, other dogs, horses, and even pigs.

 

 

Rescue Groups

If you know the American Foxhound is the dog for you, we suggest adopting one from legitimate rescue groups. Certified American Foxhound rescue groups are available with a quick Google search. Some dog clubs like the American Kennel Club offer resources to help you find a rescue group that works best for you. Whichever rescue group you decide to go with, make sure they can disclose any information about your future Foxhound.

 

 

Breed Organizations

Some people prefer purchasing American Foxhound puppies instead of adopting. Reputable breeding organizations should be fully transparent and ethical with their breeding methods. One way to find a safe dog breeding group is through dog organizations like the American Kennel Club.

 

 

More About This Dog Breed

The American Foxhound is the official state dog of Virginia. They also love to sing! This breed likes to bay, which is akin to melodic barking or howling. It bays to communicate with other dogs or seek attention from its owners. It is very loud and can be heard for miles, which can potentially upset some neighbors who are not fond of being kept awake from the noise.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Like any pet, taking care of an American Foxhound is a serious responsibility, but one that reaps plenty of rewards. You will have a dog that enjoys the company of others and is gentle with kids too. Consider the American Foxhound as your best friend you wish you always had!