American Foxhound
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| Size: | Large (60 to 100+ lbs.) |
| Lifespan: | Medium (8 to 12 years) |
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Very similar in appearance and traits to its cousin the Beagle, American Foxhounds are scent trackers and popular family pets that came to America from England in the late 1700s at the direct request of President George Washington. Washington's journals list over 30 foxhounds, including three named Tipsy, Drunkard, and Tipler, and he is credited with creating the breed from the English Foxhound. Scent hounds as a group are characterized by sensitive sniffers, deep, loud barks, endurance and stamina over long distances, and long, droopy ears. Even as pets, these dogs are happiest in packs and, when outdoors, will actively seek out a trail to follow--even digging and climbing the fences of your yard to get at one. American Foxhounds make fabulous family pets--they are gentle, tolerant, loving, great with kids and only slightly reserved around strangers. They do not make great apartment dogs, however, since they need tons of exercise and outdoor time each day or they risk becoming destructive. According to the American Kennel Club, the American Foxhound is an ideal choice for those who live in rural areas or on large farms.
American Foxhounds are energetic country-loving dogs. If you don't have a fenced-in yard, you will most likely need to seek out a dog walker or doggie day care to help with your dog's exercise needs. American Foxhounds can also be difficult to housebreak, and training is best done with the aid of a crate since this breed is used to being outdoors. Scent hounds in general are also difficult to obedience train, and as puppies, will follow their nose into trouble and will eat anything in sight, often causing frantic and expensive trips to the vet. Foxhounds are definitely pack animals, and do very well with other family pets (especially if they are raised with them). Common health problems include obesity, hip dysplasia, and ear infections. American Foxhounds are a generally a healthy and docile breed.
For more information about American Foxhound ownership and care, check out the American Foxhound Club.
