All About the American Foxhound: Traits, Temperament & Care
Graceful yet rugged, the American Foxhound is a piece of living U.S. history wrapped in a sleek tricolor coat. Bred more than two centuries ago to chase foxes across the rolling hills of Virginia and Maryland, this hound is famous for its endurance, musical bay, and easy-going nature around people. For today’s pet lovers, the breed offers a winning mix of family-friendly temperament and athletic drive—if you can meet its exercise needs. This comprehensive guide explores every facet of the American Foxhound so you can decide whether this spirited scent hound is the perfect companion for your home.
Breed Origins and History
The American Foxhound descends from English, Irish, and French hounds imported by early colonists. George Washington was one of the breed’s earliest enthusiasts; his hunting packs at Mount Vernon laid the foundation for today’s bloodlines. As fox hunting evolved into a popular colonial pastime, breeders selected dogs with longer legs, lighter frames, and a higher musical voice than their English cousins, allowing them to cover vast American landscapes at speed. The American Kennel Club formally recognized the breed in 1886, but field trial communities had already cemented its reputation as a tireless hunter.
Physical Traits and Appearance
Standing 21 – 25 inches at the shoulder and weighing 60 – 75 pounds, the American Foxhound is built for distance. Key characteristics include:
- A narrow, slightly domed head with large, pleading brown eyes
- Long, low-set ears that frame the face and enhance scent funneling
- A deep chest for superior lung capacity and a slightly arched loin for flexion
- Dense, hard coat in classic tri-color, red-and-white, or blue-tick patterns
- A saber-shaped tail carried gaily but never curled over the back
Overall, the breed conveys athleticism without bulk, favoring light bone and well-knuckled feet that shrug off miles of rough terrain.
Temperament and Personality
Friendly and mellow indoors, the American Foxhound turns into a driven athlete outdoors. In the family setting you can expect:
- Gentle social nature: polite with strangers, rarely shy or aggressive
- Pack orientation: happiest when living with another dog or spending ample time with human “pack” members
- Independent streak: centuries of hunting alone with nose to ground make recall training a must
- Vocal expression: that musical bay can carry for miles—great for rural owners, tricky in apartments
Because they were bred to work cooperatively, American Foxhounds usually get along with children and household pets, though small animals may spark their chase instinct.
Exercise Requirements
An under-exercised American Foxhound quickly turns to nuisance barking or inventive escape attempts. Aim for at least 90 minutes of daily activity split into brisk walks, jogging, or scent games. Off-leash running in a secure field is ideal. Many owners join canicross, nose-work, or tracking clubs to harness the breed’s natural talents while strengthening the dog-human bond.
Training and Socialization
Early socialization shapes a confident, mannerly adult. Positive-reinforcement methods work best because the American Foxhound is both sensitive and food-motivated. Key tips:
- Begin recall on a long line in scent-rich environments to overcome nose-driven distractions.
- Incorporate “find it” games to turn tracking instincts into indoor mental exercise.
- Rotate high-value treats—bits of cheese or freeze-dried liver—to keep sessions exciting.
- Practice polite greetings since the breed’s exuberance can bowl over toddlers and elderly relatives.
Health and Lifespan
With proper care the American Foxhound lives 11 – 13 years. The breed is generally hardy, yet owners should watch for:
- Hip dysplasia: request OFA or PennHIP scores from breeders.
- Thrombocytopathy: a hereditary platelet disorder causing prolonged bleeding; reputable kennels test breeding stock.
- Ear infections: floppy ears trap moisture, so weekly cleaning is essential.
- Obesity: high food drive plus modern couch-potato lifestyles can add unhealthy pounds; measure meals carefully.
Regular veterinary checkups, parasite prevention, and annual dental cleanings keep your hound feeling its best.
Nutrition and Feeding Guidelines
An active 65-pound American Foxhound typically needs 1,200 – 1,600 calories daily, split into two meals to prevent bloat. Choose a high-quality kibble with:
- 22 – 26 % protein to maintain lean muscle
- Omega-3 fatty acids for joint and coat health
- Limited fillers to support steady energy rather than sugar spikes
Working foxhounds may require calorie-dense performance diets, while retired companions benefit from weight-management formulas.
Grooming and Maintenance
Grooming an American Foxhound is refreshingly simple:
- Weekly brushing with a hound glove removes dead hair and distributes oils.
- Monthly baths—or post–mud-run rinses—keep the tri-color coat glossy.
- Trim nails every two weeks; long nails can splay toes and reduce traction.
- Check ears for redness or odor and wipe with a vet-approved solution.
- Brush teeth three times a week to reduce tartar and maintain fresh breath.
Living Environment and Compatibility
Because of its voice and motion needs, the American Foxhound thrives in:
- Suburban or rural homes with fenced yards
- Active households committed to daily runs or hikes
- Multi-dog families where play sessions burn mental energy
Apartment dwellers can succeed if they provide rigorous exercise and choose considerate hours for outdoor baying. Remember: a bored foxhound invents its own entertainment, often at the expense of landscaping and neighborly goodwill.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros
- Affectionate, good-natured companion
- Minimal grooming effort
- Excellent jogging and hiking partner
- Generally healthy and long-lived
Cons
- High exercise requirement
- Prone to wander if scents entice
- Loud baying can annoy neighbors
- Independent mindset requires patient training
Frequently Asked Questions
Are American Foxhounds good with children?
Yes. Their gentle disposition makes them patient playmates, though supervision is wise with toddlers due to size and enthusiasm.
Do American Foxhounds get along with cats?
Some do, especially if raised together, but prey drive varies. Slow introductions and secure retreats for the cat are essential.
How much does an American Foxhound puppy cost?
Expect $800 – $1,200 from a health-tested breeder. Adoption from breed rescues ranges $150 – $300 and often includes vaccinations and spay/neuter.
Is the breed hypoallergenic?
No. Shedding is moderate year-round, so allergy sufferers should spend time with adult hounds before committing.
Can they live happily in the city?
Possible, but challenging. Success hinges on early training, soundproof walls, and daily vigorous exercise to curb voice and energy.
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