American Foxhound

The American Foxhound descends from English hounds brought to North America in the 1600s. Developed in Virginia and Maryland, the breed was refined by notable figures such as George Washington, who played a major role in its early development. These dogs were bred specifically for fox hunting in the dense terrain of the American South, favoring speed, endurance, and a melodic voice for hunters to follow. While not as common today in households, the American Foxhound remains a favorite among scent hound enthusiasts and hunters.

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The American Foxhound is tall, slim, and athletic, with long legs and a deep chest built for endurance. Its short coat lies close to the body and comes in a wide range of colors, including tri-color, red and white, black and tan, and more.
Key Features:

• Long, droopy ears
• Long, straight tail carried high
• Brown or hazel eyes with a gentle expression
  Males typically weigh 65–75 lbs, while females range from 60–70 lbs.

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This breed is low-maintenance when it comes to grooming:

• Brushing: Once a week with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt
• Bathing: As needed, typically every 2–3 months
• Ears: Clean regularly to prevent infections
• Nails & Teeth: Standard trimming and brushing routine

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The American Foxhound is one of the most active dog breeds and needs extensive daily exercise.

• Recommended: 1.5 to 2 hours daily (running, hiking, scent games)
• Excellent jogging partners
• Needs secure, fenced areas—prone to wander if following a scent
  Without proper outlets, the breed can become restless, noisy, or destructive.

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American Foxhounds are intelligent but can be independent and stubborn.

• Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise
• Keep sessions short and engaging
• Early recall and leash training are crucial
• Socialize early to reduce wariness toward strangers

Feed high-quality, protein-rich dog food appropriate to the dog’s activity level and age.

• Adults: 2–3 cups per day, divided into two meals
• Maintain lean weight—watch for overfeeding
• Add supplements like glucosamine for joint support in high-activity dogs

Before adopting or purchasing an American Foxhound:

• Ask breeders about hunting lineage, as some dogs may have high prey drive
• Request hip and platelet disorder screenings
• Consider rescues such as the American Foxhound Rescue or Hound Rescue of North Texas
  Ensure the dog’s energy level is a fit for your lifestyle—this breed is not ideal for low-activity households.

Generally a healthy breed, though some issues to be aware of include:

• Hip dysplasia
• Ear infections (due to long ears)
• Thrombocytopathy (a rare blood disorder)
• Bloating (deep-chested dogs are prone)
  Routine vet checks, a clean diet, and an active lifestyle can mitigate many issues.

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Are American Foxhounds good family pets?
Yes, they are gentle, affectionate, and patient with children, though their energy may overwhelm very young kids.

Do they get along with other dogs?
Yes, they’re pack animals and generally do well with other dogs. Prey drive may affect small pets like cats.

Do American Foxhounds bark a lot?
Yes, they have a loud, musical bay and may vocalize frequently—especially when bored.

Are they good for apartment living?
No, this breed thrives in homes with large, secure outdoor areas. They are not suited to confined spaces.

Do they shed?
Yes, but shedding is minimal and manageable with weekly brushing.