Are you always on the move? Are you a parent to active children who love to spend their days running around and playing? If you’re looking for a furry companion who can join you on walks or match the energy of your crazy kids, the American Foxhound is the dog for you! Intelligent, loyal, and […]

Are you always on the move? Are you a parent to active children who love to spend their days running around and playing? If you’re looking for a furry companion who can join you on walks or match the energy of your crazy kids, the American Foxhound is the dog for you!

Intelligent, loyal, and kind, the American Foxhound is a favorite canine among dog owners. These energetic dogs make amazing pets for active families as this hound thrives with family interaction and feels happiest when it’s by your side.

Originally bred to hunt, the American Foxhound has the stamina to spend hours exploring the great outdoors, hiking steep trails, or walking on the beach. With its long floppy ears and gentle eyes, the American Foxhound makes a caring and loving pet. Follow along with our complete guide to learn more about this charming breed of canine.

American Foxhound Characteristics (Physical)

For many of us, the animated film The Fox and the Hound marked the first time we heard about a hound dog. Similar to the character in the movie, the American Foxhound was indeed bred to hunt foxes. They accomplish this with their powerful noses that can pick up a scent and track it for miles. In fact, this scent dog has one of the best senses of smell among all canines.

When it comes to appearance, the Foxhound looks strikingly similar to a Beagle. They share a similar coat but the American Foxhound differs with its own set of unique characteristics.

The Foxhound has large eyes that are set apart and long and hanging ears that rest on top of their head. Their ears are somewhat floppy and do not point up. The American Foxhound’s mouth typically displays a gentle expression. Their adorable facial features help this cute pup cheer you up with just one friendly glance.

Built for endurance, the chest of the American Foxhound is deep so that it can take deep breaths while running long distances. Both their front and back legs are well-tone and built to help them take giant leaps while chasing down foxes.

The American Foxhound features a long, high-set tail that curves slightly and ends in a tapered, brush-like tip. You’ll often see it wagging like a majestic wand when your dog is happy.

Thankfully, these adorable canines are easy to groom as they have short coats. The coat colors of an American Foxhound vary and come in a multitude of combinations.

American Foxhound Size

Typically, male American Foxhounds weigh between 45 to 65 pounds and grow between 22 to 28 inches tall. Female American Foxhounds are slightly smaller. They weigh around 40 to 60 pounds and can grow between 21 to 24 inches tall.

Large dog breeds can be overwhelming for some while tiny dogs can be undesirable for others. The medium-size American Foxhound is a perfect compromise and they are versatile enough to live in either an apartment in the city or a large home with a big backyard.

Medium size dogs are perfect for children. They are not able to pick them up which avoids the potential for your small child to injure the dog or themselves.

American Foxhound Personality

Now that we’ve discussed the appearance of this dog in detail, it’s time to dive into their natural temperament and personality. While each American Foxhound has its own unique character and traits, there are personality traits that are common for the breed.

Companionable

As with most dog breeds, the American Foxhound thrives with interaction, whether that be another dog, cat, pet, or small child. Bred to be part of a pack, Foxhounds naturally enjoy the company of others. Foxhounds are typically very friendly and can be protective of their families.

Energetic

The American Foxhound was purposefully bred to have great stamina and energy so it could chase foxes for miles and keep up with their owners on horseback. In place of hunting, the American Foxhound now uses its high energy for playtime. These playful canines love to trail alongside you during bike rides or play with kids.

Intelligent

The American Foxhound is very smart and enjoys learning. In addition to their high exercise needs, these dogs also require mental stimulation. To help keep their mind sharp, hide some of their favorite treats and watch them use their powerful nose to find them..

As with most breeds in the hound dog group, their intelligence can make them a little stubborn. Once an American Foxhound picks up on an intriguing scent, they can get tunnel vision and follow the trail until it finds the source.

Docile

Though they will bark at perceived intruders, this sweet-natured dog is not easily angered and will act shy and reserved around new people. If they are socialized well, the American Foxhound will easily get along with anyone who comes over.

American Foxhound Exercise

Exercise is important for both dogs and people. It keeps our bodies healthy and strong and supports our overall well-being. These benefits also apply to the American Foxhound.

This high-energy dog breed requires one to two hours a day of exercise. This adorable dog has the stamina to stay active for hours before needing a break. If you’re looking for a furry running partner or someone to go on long walks with, this hound is for you!

Failing to meet the exercise needs of the American Foxhound can cause them to become restless. This restlessness can also lead them to destructive behaviors like digging up holes in your backyard or scratching up doors, so, be sure to prioritize exercise for your American Foxhound breed.

American Foxhounds thrive in homes with ample space for them to roam and fulfill their exercise requirements. This hound breed also enjoys engaging in canine sports such as tracking games, obedience rallies, and agility tests, which help keep them physically active and mentally stimulated.

Training an American Foxhound

If all dogs were born well-trained, owning a dog would be a piece of cake! Some people experience doubt about potential dog ownership when they learn how much training is required for dogs. This hard work is worth it as training your American Foxhound will benefit both you and your canine companion.Once dogs recognize you as the leader of the pack, they are more likely to obey. American Foxhounds are naturally very independent and will not listen to an unconfident or inexperienced trainer. If you are able to both hold firm boundaries and treat them with kindness, this breed will form a strong bond with you.

The best shortcut to getting a dog that listens to your commands every time is to enroll your American Foxhound into training classes, especially when they’re a puppy.

Don’t respond negatively if your dog is struggling with training. Punishment for failure to understand will only make them hate training.

Instead, use positive reinforcement and calming treats to keep your American Foxhound encouraged during training. In addition to obedience training, it’s essential to provide them with proper socialization training too, whether you adopt them as a puppy or at an older age.

A well-socialized American Foxhound tends to get along easily with other pets and people. This ensures that both you and your dog can feel at ease, knowing it won’t become scared or nervous when family members and friends visit.

American Foxhound History

Hundreds of years ago, hound dogs were very popular as they were used to hunt smaller animals for sport. This was also true in the United States during pre-colonial times.

Robert Brooke, an English colonizing settler, introduced the earliest hound dogs in America in the mid-1600s. During the next 100 years that followed, these dogs were bred with other popular European hounds, including the French foxhounds and the English Foxhound.

Our first president, George Washington bred and owned Foxhounds. He even kept extensive breeding records of the Foxhounds he owned.

During the American Revolutionary War, George Washington became close friends with a French Aristocrat, the Marquis de Lafayette. In 1785 the Marquis de Lafayette gifted Washington some French hounds in 1785. George Washington and other American breeders continued to develop the breed with other dogs over the next couple of decades, eventually resulting in the American Foxhound we know and love today.

In 1886, The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the American Foxhound as its own distinguished dog breed. Today, they are kept mostly as pets but some American Foxhounds are still used for hunting.

Common American Foxhound Health Problems

Even with the best care, dogs eventually become more prone to health problems as they reach advanced age. Thankfully, the American Foxhound is a very resilient breed. Typically, a healthy American Foxhound enjoys a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

However, there is a wide range of health issues that dogs may encounter. Whether you are adopting a puppy or a rescue dog, it’s crucial to understand its health history. While the likelihood of issues is low, it’s always important to remain vigilant for any health problems so that you can promptly bring your dog to the vet for early treatment.

Always be wary of unethical breeders and pet stores. A rescue organization or certified breeder will always notify you of known health concerns so that you can plan accordingly and consult with your vet.

Thrombocytopathy

Thrombocytopathy is a medical term used to describe a blood platelet disorder. This condition will manifest itself as bleeding abnormalities for your American Foxhound. Under veterinary supervision, this condition can be treated and managed.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a prevalent condition among dogs, including the American Foxhound. Dogs affected by this disease may exhibit symptoms such as limping, difficulty jumping, or muscle loss in the thighs.

This condition can also lead to severe arthritis in some cases. Dysplasia can be treated with supplements and monitored weight loss. More severe cases may require surgery. An American Foxhound will show symptoms quickly as they are a naturally active dog.

Ear Infections

We love how adorable the American Foxhound’s ears are but unfortunately, they are prone to infection. If left unchecked the areas of the American Foxhound can build up bacteria or be prone to yeast infections.

How to Care for an American Foxhound

Basic American Foxhound care includes plenty of affection, playtime, a cozy bed, nutritious food, and access to water. There are several easy ways to go above and beyond for your adorable American Foxhound friend!

Caring for a dog can be a huge responsibility, so it’s important to do your research and be fully prepared to provide for your American Foxhound. Great care will ensure that your American Foxhound will lead a healthier and happier life. Below are some tips to keep them in top shape!

  • Feeding: Be mindful of how many treats or scraps you share with your American Foxhound and prevent them from developing bad eating habits. Make sure to choose a quality dog food brand that best suits your dog and follow feeding instructions.
  • Sleeping: Help your dog feel safer at home by creating a quiet place for it to sleep or hide during a loud thunderstorm. Be sure to periodically wash your American Foxhound’s bed and blankets.
  • Exercise: American Foxhounds are highly energetic and require tons of playtime and exercise. Commit to dedicating an hour or two each day to exercise to help keep your American Foxhound mentally and physically stimulated.
  • Grooming: Check your dog’s ears for debris or wax once or twice a week. Brush your American Foxhound’s coat and teeth weekly as well. Be sure to keep their nails trimmed to prevent them from overgrowing.
  • Vet Checkups: Bring your dog to the vet at least once a year. Your veterinary professional can help detect potential issues and treat them if needed.

Taking care of your Foxhound is very straightforward. These caretaking tasks are easy and just require a little bit of your time.

Nutrition and Feeding for an American Foxhound

For optimal nutrition, we suggest feeding your American Foxhound between 2 to 4 cups of food per day, divided into two meals. The amount can vary significantly based on factors such as the dog’s size, age, weight, and overall health. Generally, a puppy will need less food compared to a fully matured American Foxhound weighing around 55 pounds.

Overfeeding your American Foxhound can cause them to become obese which will put them at risk for developing other health problems. The ribs of this breed are supposed to be visible, so don’t take this as a sign that your American Foxhound needs to be fed more.

Be sure to always buy high-quality dog food made with all-natural ingredients. Many dog food brands will include a helpful feeding chart on the side of their packaging so you can measure their food more accurately. Plan on feeding your American Foxhound two times a day and be careful of how many treats you give them throughout the day.

Bad Foods

We all have moments of indulging in food that is bad for us. Even though we may crave a specific food, it may not sit right in our stomachs. Dogs are very similar and they may want human food but it may make them ill.

As curious creatures, dogs will sometimes ingest something that is toxic to their sensitive bodies. Common reactions to toxic food include vomiting, panting, upset stomach, increased thirst, urination and some potentially life-threatening issues.

If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it possible that your American Foxhound ate one of the following foods:

  • chocolate
  • garlic
  • cinnamon
  • onions and chives
  • sweet and salty snacks
  • raw meat or eggs
  • alcohol

If you’re uncertain about sharing your food with your Foxhound, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid doing so. For guidance on safe human foods for dogs, you can refer to reputable online resources like the American Kennel Club. If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, promptly contact your local animal hospital or an animal poison control center for assistance.

Coat Color And Grooming

American Foxhounds have beautifully distinct coats. The Foxhound breed can have a combination or white, black, and tan with the possibility of red and cream coat colors as well. With so many possible coat options, the American Foxhound is one fashionable dog breed!

The short to medium-length coat of the American Foxhound is easy to groom. Regular brushing is essential for removing dirt, debris, and dead skin cells, as well as distributing healthy skin oils. It’s recommended to brush your dog as needed, typically every week or two, to maintain their coat’s health and cleanliness.

Since this hound isn’t as furry as say, a Coton de Tulear or other fluffy dog breeds, brushing is quick and easy. All you need is a special grooming glove or a dog-specific brush. You can brush your dog’s coat as they rest by your side after a long walk.

In addition to keeping their coat groomed, you should also add the following routines to our Foxhound upkeep.

  • Dental Hygiene: Dog mouths are susceptible to plaque buildup, and they may experience tooth loss if their dental care is neglected. Dedicating time to brushing their teeth will help your American Foxhound maintain a cleaner mouth. You can even purchase special dog toothbrushes and hygienic treats for your hound.
  • Clean Ear: Keep your American Foxhound and their cute long ears clean by gently removing any wax, dirt, or debris on a regular basis. You can clean their ears with warm water and a vet-approved wipe (just remember to dry thoroughly after!). If your dog’s ears are left unclean they may potentially get an ear infection.
  • Pawdicure: Keep track of your Foxhound’s nail length and trim their nails as needed. Untrimmed dog nails may make it difficult for them to do everyday activities such as walking, running, and jumping.

Breed Organizations

Some people are most interested in adopting puppies instead of an adult dog. If this is the case, make sure you get your American Foxhound puppy from a reputable breeder organization that is fully transparent and ethical with their breeding methods.

It is not unheard of for people to be tricked into purchasing an American Foxhound puppy with a lot of underlying health issues. The best way to find a safe dog breeding group is through official dog organizations like The American Kennel Club.

More About This Dog Breed

Interested in learning some cool Foxhound facts? Here are some cool bits of trivia to impress your friends and family.

The American Foxhound is the official state dog of Virginia. That is because this breed originated in the state of Virginia.

Another fun fact is that the American Foxhound loves to sing! This breed is known for its tendency to bay, a melodious form of barking or howling. They use this vocalization to communicate with other dogs and seek attention from their owners. Baying is quite loud and can carry for long distances, which may disturb neighbors who are sensitive to noise and prefer quiet surroundings.

Although taking care of any pet, including the American Foxhound, can be a serious responsibility, the rewards of a canine companion are immeasurable.  This dog loves to spend time with people and is incredibly gentle with kids, making them perfect for any active household.