Choosing an English Foxhound

Dogs

The English foxhound has a good nose and lots of stamina. Known for chasing foxes, this hound has the appearance of a top ranked athlete and performs his "job" with enthusiasm.

History and Origin

The English foxhound was originally developed in England several hundred years ago to trail foxes. It is thought that the greyhound and fox terrier both were involved in the development of the breed. The English Masters of Foxhounds Association maintains the official studbook, which dates prior to 1800. The lineage of a foxhound can easily be traced back prior to 1800.

Historically, the English foxhound has been used in packs to chases foxes with horseback mounted hunters following close behind.

In the 17th century, the first English foxhound was imported to the United States and became the initial stock of the American foxhound. In 1909, the English foxhound was recognized by the American Kennel Club as a member of the hound group.

Appearance and Size

The English foxhound is a medium sized dog with a long muzzle, long shoulders and long straight legs. The feet are small and cat-like and the ears are set low and hang. In some hunting hounds, the tips of the ears are removed (rounded) to avoid injuries during the hunt.

The coat of the English foxhound is short and glossy. The color is usually a combination of black, tan and white.

The adult English foxhound stands around 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 65 to 70 pounds.

Personality

The English foxhound has a reputation of being an intelligent and brave dog with a pleasant personality. The breed thoroughly enjoys the hunt and can run for hours. When compared to the American foxhound, the English breed is a little slower and stockier.

Home and Family Relations

The English foxhound is a very active breed that usually prefers to spend his time in a pack with other dogs. Families that wish to have an English foxhound as a pet should consider obtaining a dog from show lines instead of a hunting line.

The foxhound requires lots of exercise and is an obedient and loyal companion. He can be friendly with people and good with children but tends to enjoy time with other dogs.

The English foxhound is not recommended for apartment life. He requires too much exercise. This dog would rather live in a country setting and needs daily and extensive exercise and should only be allowed off leash in a safe area since he may follow any scent he may pick up. Be aware that as with other hounds, the English foxhound likes to bay.

Training

The English foxhound is a natural hunter but can be trained as a watchdog and for agility with lots of patience. This breed can be difficult to housebreak.

Special Concerns

The English foxhound does not like to be left alone with nothing to do or confined for long periods of time. They are intelligent dogs and need mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors and need exercise to expel their exuberant energy.

Common Diseases and Disorders

The English foxhound is a hardy breed that has few known diseases. Reported ailments include hip dysplasia and congenital deafness.

The average life span of the English foxhound is approximately 10 years.


We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.