American Foxhound Dog Breed: Pictures, Info & Care Guide
The American Foxhound is an energetic, intelligent, and loyal hound breed recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886.
Known for their quick reflexes and keen sense of smell, American Foxhounds make great hunting companions or active family pets.
Learn more about the history, health, personality, and care needs of this noble breed.
Overview and History of the American Foxhound Breed
| UTILISATION | Hound |
| FCI-CLASSIFICATION | Large-sized Scenthound |
| BREED GROUP | Hound |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | United States of America |
| HEIGHT | Female: 21–24 inches (53–61 cm), Male: 22–25 inches (56–64 cm). |
| WEIGHT | Female: 44–64 lbs (20–29 kg), Male: 64–75 lbs (29–34 kg). |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY | 11-13 years |
| TEMPERAMENT | Gentle, playful, friendly, wilful |
| INTELLIGENCE | Medium |
| SHEDDING AMOUNT | Infrequent |
| DROOL AMOUNT | Low |
| EXERCISE AMOUNT | Moderate |
| ENERGY LEVEL | Active |
| BARKING LEVEL | Frequent |
| TRAINABILITY | Easy |
| COAT LENGTH/TEXTURE | Close, hard hound coat of medium length. |
| COLORS | Any color including black, white and tan, red and white, and tricolor. |
| SUMMARY | Excellent with young children and other dogs. Easy to groom. Easy to train. High prey drive. Hot weather tolerant. Good hiking companion. High potential for weight gain. |
With a lineage that goes back to the early 1700s, the American Foxhound is one of America’s oldest breeds.
Originally bred for fox hunting, the breed was specifically designed to combine speed and excellent scenting capabilities.
By the mid-1800s, the breed had spread to many states throughout the country.
Today, their powerful build and friendly personality make them popular as active family pets or hunting companions.
Appearance, Temperament and Health of the American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is a medium-sized dog with a proud, alert, and intelligent expression. They have a gentle, playful and friendly personality.
Their short coat can come in a variety of colors including black, white and tan, red and white, and tricolor.
They have long legs that give them their distinctive speed. In addition to being energetic and athletic dogs, Foxhounds are known for their gentle disposition making them great family pets.
Of course, early socialization is recommended to ensure they remain friendly around strangers and other animals.
American Foxhound health concerns, while rare, can include hip dysplasia, seizures, bloat or gastric torsion, eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), thrombocytopenia, ear infections, and dental diseases over time.
Recommended daily feeding amount: 2 to 3 cups of a high-quality dog food a day.
Training and Exercise Requirements of the American Foxhound
The American Foxhound requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and happy.
They need an outlet for their natural energy, which could include daily walks and jogs as well as canine sports such as agility or running lure courses.
This breed also needs regular socialization since they can be shy around strangers and other animals.
Obedience classes are highly recommended to give owners the tools they need to properly train this stubborn, independent-minded breed.
Consistent training using positive reinforcement methods will ensure that appropriate behaviors are encouraged while unwanted ones are discouraged.
How to Find an American Foxhound Breeder or Adopt a Puppy
If you’re looking to add an American Foxhound to your family, you have two options – either get a puppy from a breeder or adopt one from a shelter.
Responsible breeders will take the time to make sure their puppies are healthy and have the best start in life.
However, if you want to give an older dog a loving home you should consider adopting from a rescue group or shelter.
This is also often more affordable than getting a puppy from a breeder and will help to reduce demand for animals bred in unregulated conditions.
Tips for Caring for Your American Foxhound Dog
Caring for an American Foxhound dog is a big responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
With regular exercise and proper nutrition, your Foxhound will be happy and healthy!
The best way to ensure their health is by providing them with plenty of mental stimulation.
They need lots of physical activity, such as running or playing fetch, but they also enjoy mentally challenging activities like agility courses or puzzle toys.
Be sure to provide lots of affection and positive reinforcement as well – these special pups thrive on attention and love!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are American foxhounds aggressive?
American foxhounds are not inherently aggressive or excessively shy, and they tend to get along well with children and other pets, provided they are properly socialized.
They are tireless hunters, can be independent thinkers, and tend to bark.
Despite these quirks, American foxhounds make loving and loyal companions that respond positively to patient and consistent training.
Is American Foxhound same as Beagle?
No, an American Foxhound is not the same breed as a Beagle. While they are both classified as hounds, the American Foxhound and Beagle have different backgrounds and physical characteristics.
The American Foxhound is a tall, lean dog while the Beagle is shorter with longer ears.
Additionally, the American Foxhound was bred for hunting and tracking while the Beagle was bred for hunting small game.
Are American foxhounds friendly?
Yes, American foxhounds are known for being friendly and affectionate with their families.
They’re an active breed who loves spending time outdoors, but they still make great family dogs that love to cuddle.
How long do American foxhounds live?
The average lifespan of an American Foxhound is 11 to 13 years. With proper nutrition and exercise, some foxhounds can live for up to 15 or 16 years.
What is the average American Foxhound price?
The average price for an American Foxhound puppy is around $500 – $700 USD, depending on location and breeder credentials.
What is the average American Foxhound height?
Female: 21–24 inches (53–61 cm), Male: 22–25 inches (56–64 cm).
What is the average American Foxhound size?
Female: 44–64 lbs (20–29 kg), Male: 64–75 lbs (29–34 kg).
