Do you know about the independent but sweet American Foxhound? This breed might be the oldest American dog breed we know today. Keep reading to learn more about the amazing American Foxhound.
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| American Foxhound Dog Breed Overview | |
|---|---|
| Nicknames | Foxhound, American Hound |
| Height | 21 - 25 inches |
| Weight | 60 - 70 pounds |
| Lifespan | 11 - 13 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Temperament | Sweet, Easygoing, Independent |
| Suitable For | Active families, households with children, households with other pets |
History Of The American Foxhound
Did you know there are different types of Foxhound dog breeds? For example, the American Foxhound is not the same as the English Foxhound but shares DNA.
In 1650, Robert Brooks brought English Foxhounds from Britain to America. They were initially bred to aid in traditional fox hunts. However, the English Foxhounds didn’t have long enough legs to keep up on American land.
So, the English Foxhounds were bred with another European dog breed, thus creating the American Foxhound.
George Washington was a big game hunter and is a huge reason why the American Foxhound is the dog breed we know and love today.
For instance, a French aristocrat and American military commander, Marquis de Lafayette, gifted Washington French hounds. In 1785, Washington bred English Foxhounds with French hounds. Later, he’d crossed the dogs with Irish hounds to create a speedier breed.
Washington kept extensive notes during his breeding, thus aiding in creating the American Foxhound.
The first American Foxhounds were bred in Virginia and Maryland in the United States. This breed was initially produced for sporting events, such as foxhunting, which was wildly popular during the Civil War era.
In 1886, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized this breed as part of the hound group. Then, in 1966, Virginia made the American Foxhound its official state dog.
What Does The American Foxhound Look Like?
The American Foxhound is a medium-sized dog breed, with males growing slightly more significantly than females. For example, males can grow between 22 and 25 inches tall. In addition, they should weigh between 65 to 70 pounds.
On the other hand, females can grow to be about 21 to 24 inches tall. They should weigh between 60 and 65 pounds.
According to the AKC’s breed standard, American Foxhounds have long skulls, long, low ears, and large eyes.
This dog’s body is muscular, with sturdy shoulders, a deep chest, and a long back. In addition, they have strong, long legs to help with their running speed. Finally, they have a slightly curved tail that’s held high.
Finally, American Foxhounds have a short-to-medium-length coat that’s close and hard.
What Coat Colors Does The American Foxhound Have?
American Foxhound dogs can come in an array of coat colors. However, you won’t see them with coat patterns or markings.
This doggo can have the following coat colors:
- Black, Brown, & White
- Black, White, & Tan
- Blue
- Brown, White, & Tan
- Red
- Tan
- White
- White & Cream
- White & Red
- White, Black, & Tan
However, out of all these colors, only two are recognized by the AKC as standard. Those coat colors are black, white, & tan, and white, black, and tan.
American Foxhound Pet Care
Even though American Foxhounds were initially bred for game hunting, they make an excellent pet for any family. They’re relatively low maintenance to care for, too.
Grooming
Thanks to its hard coat, grooming this dog breed is minimal. Its short coat is close to the body and hard, thus protecting them from the underbrush. As a result, it’s easy to care for.
Using a bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt, brush their coat at least once weekly. It’ll keep their coat smooth and clean. Also, this breed sheds a bit, so you’ll get rid of dead hair.
You won’t need to worry about bathing them unless they get dirty.
Finally, remember to keep up with trimming their nails regularly. Also, keep up with brushing their teeth and keeping their ears clean.
Diet
With such high stamina, this breed will do well on a high-quality diet that’s rich in protein. With your vet’s approval, you can provide this pup with commercial dog food or homemade recipes.
Remember, your dog’s diet should reflect its breed size, age, weight, metabolism, and energy levels.
American Foxhounds are prone to obesity and love to eat. Free feeding (letting them graze dry kibble all day) isn’t ideal. Adults should have two meals per day, and puppies should have three smaller meals daily.
Exercise
This dog breed was initially bred to hunt and chase prey. They have high stamina and high energy levels. American Foxhounds need an active family that can give them at least one to two hours of physical exercise daily.
In addition, they’ll do well with plenty of mental stimulation to help tire them out. If this doggo doesn’t get the physical or mental stimulation they need to thrive, they’ll easily become bored and destructive.
If you won’t be home for a day, it’s ideal for bringing them to doggy daycare. Or, you can have a professional dog walker check on them twice daily.
American Foxhounds need a fenced-in yard they can run around in and explore. They’ll enjoy going on long walks and hikes with you.
However, they’re scenthounds and do have a high prey drive. So if you bring them out in public, they should always be on a leash.
This breed can also participate in dog sports like tracking, rally, or coursing ability tests.
American Foxhound Dog Training
With their high energy levels, they can quickly develop unwanted behaviors if they’re not given the right amount of physical and mental stimulation. Training is a great form of mental stimulation and excellent bonding time for the two of you.
Also, all dogs need the training to learn positive behavior and listen to their owners.
American Foxhounds are relatively easygoing, but they’re also independent. So, when it comes to training, they can become stubborn.
Patience, persistence, and consistency are vital to training this breed. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced dog owner, you can bring them to a dog training class or work privately with a professional dog trainer.
Health Issues
Luckily, this breed is relatively healthy. However, that doesn’t mean they’re not prone to getting sick or having certain health conditions.
Some health problems your American Foxhound pup can get are the following:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Ear Infections
- Thrombocytopathy
- Bloat
- Obesity
Bring your American Foxhound puppy to the vet a few times during their first year. You and your vet can track their growth and development together. Also, you can keep them up to date with their vaccinations.
Your American Foxhound should visit the vet at least once yearly for their annual checkup as an adult.
With the proper care, American Foxhounds have an average lifespan of about 11 to 13 years.
Temperament: American Foxhound Breed Characteristics
Through their foxhunts back in the day, American Foxhounds are used to being in packs. They’ll always need a companion, whether a human or another pet, in the house. For instance, they’ll most likely get close to one family member.
Regardless, the American Foxhound is an excellent addition to any household. While they may not be the most cuddly dog breeds, they’re sweet and friendly. They’ll enjoy playing with you, whether it’s games of fetch in the backyard or joining you on hiking trips.
In addition, this doggo gets along well with young children. However, kids and dogs should always be supervised when playing together. Also, the kids and the dog must be taught boundaries and respect one another’s space.
This breed will also get along well with other pets in the home. For example, they’ll get along well with other dogs and cats. Having another pet will benefit them since they’re prone to separation anxiety.
If you need to run errands or will be out for a few hours, your American Foxhound will have the company of the other pets in the house.
Remember, this doggo has a high prey drive. So, if you have small animals, such as rabbits or guinea pigs, keep an eye on your dog.
Another trait to note is that this doggo loves to sing. They’re vocal, often barking and baying to either get your attention, alert you of something, or simply because they’re bored and want to hear themselves talk.
Due to their vocalness and energy levels, American Foxhounds won’t do well in an apartment. They need a bigger house with a decent-sized fenced-in yard.
Finally, this dog was bred to work. That’s what’s mostly on their mind. Unfortunately, they don’t make an excellent watchdog and won’t be a good guard dogs.
Are There Any Differences Between Males And Females?
Aside from males being slightly bigger than females, there are no significant differences between the sexes of this breed. Every dog is an individual with its personality. However, the general temperament of American Foxhounds is generally similar between males and females.
Who Should Own The American Foxhound?
Dog owners most suited to own an American Foxhound are active, have the time to cater to the dog’s energy levels, and can handle more than one pet. This doggo will also do better with a fenced-in yard.
Families with children can also do well with this dog. However, senior couples should avoid getting an American Foxhound due to their exercise needs.
Where Can You Get An American Foxhound?
If you want to add this dog breed to your home, then you’ll be able to find this American hound dog anywhere you can adopt dogs.
First, check your local animal shelter or breed rescue organization. These dogs have been surrendered or abandoned by their previous owners and are looking for their forever home.
You’ll be able to find American Foxhound mixed breeds or purebreds. You may also find adults, puppies, or seniors of this breed.
Alternatively, you can find ethical American Foxhound breeders. Breeders will have American Foxhound puppies for sale.
When choosing to work with a breeder, remember that a good one will do the following:
- They’ll meet with you in person and get to know you
- The breeder will be able to answer all of your questions, be honest and transparent
- They’ll socialize and train the puppies as soon as possible
- They won’t allow the puppies to leave their mother before eight weeks old
- The breeder will ensure the puppies are up to date with vaccinations
In addition, a good breeder will also provide you with health certificates and family tree history upon adoption.
You can check out the AKC’s breeder list to find an ethical American Foxhound breeder.
Question Corner: FAQs About The American Foxhound
To learn more about this unique dog breed, read through the frequently asked questions answered below.
What’s The Average Cost Of The American Foxhound?
The average American Foxhound price is between $400 and $600. However, the cost may be lower if you go through a shelter. The price is also factored by the dog’s age, coat color, the popularity of the breed, and more.
What’s The Average Litter Size Of American Foxhounds?
The average litter size of this medium dog breed is about five to seven puppies per litter.
Is An American Foxhound A Good Family Dog?
Yes, this dog breed is an excellent family addition. They’ll get along well with everyone in the house, including young kids and other pets. They’re not lap dogs, but they will still enjoy your company.
Are American Foxhounds Aggressive?
No, this breed is not aggressive at all. They’re friendly, sweet, and easygoing. However, they won’t make for a good watchdog or guard dog.
Are American Foxhounds Hard To Train?
American Foxhounds are intelligent and enjoy learning. However, they are independent and can be stubborn. So, training can be difficult on some days. But, with persistence and patience, training can go well and be an excellent bonding time for you.
Do American Foxhounds Shed?
Yes, even with their short coat, this breed does shed. They don’t shed a lot, but it’s enough that you’ll need to vacuum your carpets at least once weekly. Due to the shedding, American Foxhounds are not hypoallergenic dogs.
Do American Foxhounds Bark A Lot?
This dog breed does bark a lot. This is because they love to hear themselves talk. Also, if they get too bored, they’ll tell you by baying.
Is The American Foxhound Right For You?
If you’re an active and exercise enthusiast, you’ll have a lovely hiking buddy if you get an American Foxhound. This doggo will thrive if you also have a bigger home and can give it plenty of attention.
Rachel Poli is a content writer and author, but her real job is being a stay-at-home pet mom. Her zoo currently consists of a dog, a cat, two turtles, and two fish tanks. She’s also an avid pet sitter for a few local families, caring for various animals.
After realizing how little information there is for pet sitters on the internet, Rachel decided to start her own animal website. She strives to educate pet parents and pet sitters about the overall care of our furry friends.