American Foxhound

Size Category:Large
Height:22-25 inches21-24 inches
Weight:65-70 pounds60-65 pounds
Life Span:11-13 years

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • American Foxhound grooming requires minimal effort due to its short, hard coat that lies close to the body and protects from underbrush
  • A weekly brushing with a bristle brush, rubber grooming mitt, or hound glove is typically sufficient
  • Bathing is only necessary if the dog gets into something particularly messy outdoors
  • Regular nail trimming is essential, as with all breeds
  • The coat’s natural texture makes maintenance extremely easy
  • Outdoor activity may occasionally require extra cleaning after messy encounters

Colors & Markings

Colors

Black White & TanWhite Black & TanWhiteWhite & RedWhite & CreamBlack Brown & WhiteBlueTanBrown White & TanRed

Health Information

American Foxhounds are generally robust, but breeders should prioritize health testing for conditions like hip dysplasia and thrombocytopathy, a hereditary blood disorder. Their long ears require regular cleaning to prevent infections and wax buildup, while consistent brushing helps maintain dental health.

Recommended Health Tests

No recommended health tests

📜 History

The American Foxhound traces its origins to pre-Revolutionary Virginia, where British-influenced elites like George Washington embraced foxhunting as a central part of their lifestyle. Washington, a passionate hunter, maintained a meticulously bred pack of hounds using British imports and French stock gifted by the Marquis de Lafayette, contributing significantly to the breed’s early development. Alongside Washington, prominent families such as the Jeffersons, Lees, and Custises further refined the American Foxhound, distinguishing it from its English counterpart through selective breeding. By the antebellum era, foxhunting had become the dominant sport among Southern aristocracy, solidifying the breed’s legacy as Virginia’s state dog today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the American Foxhound is generally excellent with children. They are typically patient and tolerant, making them great family pets. However, supervision with young children is always recommended.
The American Foxhound sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing can help keep loose hair under control.
The American Foxhound has average trainability. They can learn commands well but might require consistent repetition and motivation.
The American Foxhound is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Occasional brushing and baths are usually sufficient.
The American Foxhound can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to American Foxhound

Overview

About This Breed

The American Foxhound is an independent yet sweet-tempered and easy-going breed, known for its amiable nature. Highly social and affectionate with family, it thrives in environments where it can engage in physical and mental activities, though its stubborn streak requires patience during training. Its playful and energetic demeanor makes it a lively companion, though it may bark frequently and can be reserved around strangers.

🎭Temperament

KindSweet-TemperedLoyalIndependentIntelligentLoving

Purpose

Hunting (specifically foxhunting)

Breed for

Fox hunting, scent hound

Best Suited For

Active families or individuals with outdoor space, experienced dog owners who enjoy hiking or rural living

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is best suited for an active, patient owner or family who can provide ample outdoor exercise, enjoy outdoor adventures, and appreciate a dog with a strong hunting instinct and independent personality.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

Low

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with stubbornness during training and the need for high daily exercise to prevent boredom or destructive behavior; its strong scent-driven instincts also require secure fencing or leash use.

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About Our Data

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