AKC Hound Group
History
The English Foxhound is a descendant of ancient British hunting hounds. Stud books have been carefully kept by the British Masters of Foxhounds Association since at least 1800. Used in packs to chase fox with hunters on horseback, the Foxhound has impressive stamina and a good nose. He can run steadily for hours at a time. The English Foxhound is stockier and slower than the American Foxhound, but has a similar personality. This breed is still primarily a pack hunting dog, though show lines can make good companions if given sufficient exercise.
Description
The English Foxhound is an elegant, clean-cut, large-boned, athletic hound of moderate proportions. The head has a pronounced brow, low-set hanging ears, and a fairly broad backskull. The brown eyes are large, with a gentle expression. The neck is long, topline level, and the hindquarters are very strong. The front legs are absolutely straight, with round, catlike feet. The tail is held up gaily. The short, hard, easy-care coat is usually tricolor (tan with a dark saddle and white extremities); however, color is not an important feature.
Key Facts
- Height: Averages 24 in. (male); averages 23 in. (female)
- Size: Large
- Weight: 65 to 75 lbs.
- Availability: Very difficult to find
- Talents: Hunting, tracking, watchdog
Notes
This is very healthy breed. Choose a show-line puppy if you are looking for a pet, as field types are extremely active. Needs extensive daily running to be happy. Can become destructive if confined too much. Might take off after any interesting scent-do not let off leash unless in a safe place. Does quite well with other animals. Proven hunting hounds often have the bottom edge of their ears rounded (shortened) to avoid nicks and tears during the hunt and as a mark of distinction.
Personality
Very active. A bold and passionate hunter. Friendly. Responsive and obedient to his master, but training takes patience. Enjoys the company of other dogs.
Behavior
- Children: Excellent with children
- Friendliness: Fairly friendly with strangers
- Trainability: Slightly difficult to train
- Independence: Needs people a lot
- Dominance: Low
- Other Pets: Generally good with other dogs; do not trust with non-canine pets
- Combativeness: Not dog-aggressive
- Noise: Likes to bay
- Indoors: Very active indoors
- Owner: Not recommended for novice owners
Care
- Grooming: Very little grooming needed
- Trimming and Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed
- Coat: Short coat
- Shedding: Average shedder
- Exercise: Needs moderate exercise
- Jogging: An excellent jogging companion
- Apartments: Not recommended for apartments
- Outdoor Space: Best with acreage
- Climate: Does well in most climates
- Longevity: Short (under 10 years)
Useful Links
AKC® English Foxhound Breed Standard
http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/EnglishFoxhound.pdf
English Foxhound Breed Club
akc.org/club_search/index_master.cfm?club_id=5034
Search for a Breeder
akc.org/classified/search/landing_breed.cfm
Rescue Organizations
http://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/rescue-network/contacts/
