The American Foxhound is a symbol of tradition and elegance in the canine world, known for its ringing bark and great endurance. This breed has retained its status as an excellent hunter and a loyal companion throughout the centuries. Read on to unearth the rich history, care essentials, and various facets of the American Foxhound’s life.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | American Foxhound |
| Scientific Name | Canis lupus familiaris |
| Characteristic | Friendly, independent, kind |
| Life Span | 10-13 years |
| Build | Lean and muscular |
| Average Weight | 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female) |
| Average Height | 22-25 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female) |
| Coat Length | Short to medium |
| Coat Colors | Tri-color, bi-color |
| Coat Pattern | Mostly solid and speckled |
| Eye Colors | Brown, hazel |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Country of Origin | United States |
Physical Description
The American Foxhound carries a distinct physique that is both athletic and elegant. Standing at a height of 22-25 inches for males and 21-24 inches for females, they display a sturdy yet lean build reflective of their hunting ancestry. Generally, males tip the scales at around 65-70 pounds, with females slightly lighter at 60-65 pounds.
Their coat, which is often short to medium in length, presents a tidy appearance and can come in a palette of tri-color or bi-color patterns, with variations of white, black, and tan being most common. This breed’s skin is tighter than that of their cousin, the English Foxhound, which lends to their sleek silhouette.
The ears of the American Foxhound are an interesting feature, long and set low, framing their noble faces and falling close to the cheeks, adding to their thoughtful expression. The eyes of these canines are usually brown or hazel, exuding a soft and beckoning gaze, conveying depths of gentleness despite their athletic prowess.
Sexual dimorphism between male and female American Foxhounds is subtler than in some other breeds, primarily distinguished by size, with males slightly larger and more robust than their female counterparts.
Behavior and Temperament of the American Foxhound
American Foxhounds exude a unique personality blend: they are sweet-natured and friendly, yet independent and stubborn at times. Originally bred for hunting, they possess an inherent prey drive, strong sense of smell, and a tendency to follow scents relentlessly. This heritage also contributes to their stamina and desire to explore.
Despite their hunting traits, American Foxhounds are remarkably affectionate with their families and tend to get along well with children and other pets. Their agreeable temperament makes them superb companions, though they do require patient and consistent training due to their independent streak.
They are known to be vocal, with a melodic bark that was highly valued in their hunting days. However, in a residential setting, this trait may need to be managed to prevent excessive noise.
History and Origin
The lineage of the American Foxhound goes back to the early 1700s when fox hunting was a prominent sport in America. Brought over from Britain, the English Foxhounds were the original stock for this breed. These hounds were subsequently crossed with French hounds and possibly with other breeds, to adapt to the new terrain and climates.
It was in the United States that the American Foxhound was developed into a more streamlined dog, taller and lighter than its English ancestor, suited to cover vast stretches of land with determination and speed. George Washington himself is considered a pivotal figure in the breed’s development, as he maintained an extensive breeding program.
American Foxhound Dog Care
The care of an American Foxhound must cater to its energetic and athletic nature. Their coat is quite low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing to remove dead hair and minimize shedding. Bathing can be done when necessary.
They are not suited for sedentary lifestyles or confined spaces. These dogs need ample regular exercise, be it long walks, jogs, or a large fenced yard where they can run unrestrained. They thrive in rural settings but can adapt to suburban life if their physical requirements are met.
While they may display a certain level of adaptability to living indoors, they are most content with the freedom to roam outdoors, provided the fencing is secure to prevent escapes.
Common Health Problems
American Foxhounds, known for their stamina and resilience, are generally considered to be healthy dogs. However, there are specific health concerns that prospective and current owners should be vigilant about:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a common condition among many dog breeds where the hip joint does not form properly, potentially causing pain and hindering mobility for American Foxhounds. To manage or even prevent this issue, it’s advisable to keep the dog at a healthy weight and ensure it gets regular, moderate exercise. Veterinary check-ups can help monitor their condition and manage any problems early on.
- Ear Infections: Given their long, floppy ears, American Foxhounds are predisposed to ear infections. These infections can lead to discomfort and potentially more serious hearing issues if not treated promptly. Regular cleaning and maintenance of their ears, coupled with frequent veterinary inspections, are critical for prevention.
- Thrombocytopathy: This is a less common but potentially serious blood disorder that can affect American Foxhounds. It affects the blood’s ability to clot, which can lead to excessive bleeding from injuries or surgery. Early diagnosis and management are crucial for minimizing complications, requiring regular blood work and veterinary supervision.
- Obesity: Given their love for food and potential for overeating, American Foxhounds can easily become overweight, which exacerbates health issues like hip dysplasia. Maintaining a strict diet and exercise regimen is essential to keep them at an ideal weight and reduce their risk of obesity-related health problems.
Regular veterinary checkups are key to early detection and management of these and any other potential health issues. By keeping a close eye on an American Foxhound’s health and providing them with a nurturing environment, owners can ensure their companions lead a healthy, fulfilling life. Proper care, diet, exercise, and preventive measures are the pillars of maintaining their well-being, allowing these cherished dogs to thrive in their environments.
Where to Adopt or Buy an American Foxhound
Adoption is a rewarding way to bring an American Foxhound into your life. One can look into breeds specific rescues or general animal shelters. For those seeking to buy a puppy, diligent research is essential to find responsible breeders with a commitment to the breed’s health and temperament. The average cost for an American Foxhound puppy can range from $600 to $1200, depending on various factors.
Diet and Nutrition
An appropriate diet for an American Foxhound typically includes high-quality, commercially available dog food or properly balanced home-prepared meals, under veterinary guidance. Foods rich in protein and fat suit their active lifestyle, but be mindful of the calories to prevent overfeeding as they can be prone to weight gain.
Healthy snacks may include fruits and vegetables appropriate for dogs. Supplements like omega fatty acids might benefit skin and coat health, while glucosamine could be useful for joint maintenance.
Male Vs Female
When choosing between a male or female American Foxhound, the differences are primarily in size and sometimes in personality traits, with males being slightly larger and more dominant while females may exhibit a more reserved nature.
Family Life
American Foxhounds generally blend well into family life, especially one that is active and can provide them with the engagement they need. They thrive on companionship and do best when integrated fully into household goings-on.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the American Foxhound intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- English Foxhound
- Treeing Walker Coonhound
- Irish Wolfhound
For more dog breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQ’s about American Foxhound
Are American Foxhounds good pets?
Yes, with their friendly and loyal disposition, American Foxhounds can make excellent pets for the right family. They do best with owners who understand their need for exercise and can dedicate time to their care and training.
Is the American Foxhound rare?
No, the American Foxhound is not considered rare, but they are less commonly seen as pets than some other breeds.
Do American Foxhounds bark a lot?
Yes, American Foxhounds are known for their barking and have a loud, melodious bark which they can use frequently, especially if they’re not given adequate exercise or stimulation.
