The American Foxhound evolved from the dogs who were originally brought into this country as English Foxhounds by early settlers before the United States became independent from Great Britain. Early colonists used these hounds in large groups called packs to hunt fox followed by humans on horseback. This type of hound has the typical "bay" when following their prey and become especially loud with a distinctive change in the vocalization when they corner the animal. Americans used their hounds more for hunting deer and fox with solitary dogs . Most early colonists still maintained several dogs on their property and tended to keep them together in a group in their kennels however. Hunters who still used the dogs in packs tended to have smaller packs than were used in the English countryside. The breed gradually changed to a dog with finer bone structure and longer leg than its English counterpart and became known as a separate breed.
The American Foxhounds still maintain the "pack" nature and if raised as a kennel dog will behave as a dog that runs in a pack, being more "dog-oriented" than people oriented in nature. Most of these dogs even when kept as a lone hunting dog are more prone to be independent and relate more to dogs than people since this has for many many years been a part of their temperamental and genetic makeup. However, dogs who are socialized early can become great house pets and are generally very affectionate. As a general rule these dogs make gentle and quiet household pets if they are brought up as part of the family. They make fine watchdogs as they will give voice when unusual things occur in their environment. They are easy to train if the owner establishes themselves as pack leader, but are independent and strong willed if left to their own devices. Foxhounds kept in the house do best when they do have other dogs in the household. Dogs that have for centuries lived as part of the pack need companionship of other dogs or at least a pack mentality in their household and without this they can exhibit real problem behaviors. These behaviors can include separation anxiety and repetitive movements such as tail chasing or circling. They need plenty of exercise as do all dogs who are bred to be hunters.
The coat is short, the breed has a medium to long tail, with a well balanced and powerful neck and the typical "hound" appearance to the muzzle. The colors are black and tan and white generally in no particular pattern except that the areas of color are usually large in prominent patches rather than "speckled" or roan. The head of the American Foxhound has natural tulip shaped ears which lop over and a soft expression to the eye. This breed has been consistently healthy through many years and exhibits few health problems. Of course any dog that will be used for breeding should be x-rayed for hip dysplasia but other than this there are few genetic conditions.
American Foxhound For Sale
The foxhound has several wonderful qualities including hunting, tracking, being a watchdog, and a trail dog. They are a hardy breed, which means they have a lot of energy to expend and love to have some type of job or game to play during the day. They have been used as pack dogs as well. You will find they are not good around other pets like cats. Their instincts are to chase and they can end up harming the other pets. They do okay with other dogs, but again this depends on the breed of the other dog. They can do well with the same breed. You will find they are not the best of dogs to have around children or novice owners. However with the proper training in socialization and obedience they can be in family homes. Training will be difficult as they are a stubborn breed. As long as you are firm, but gentle you should have no difficulty in further training after obedience. They are often a barker, so you may need to train them when to bark and when not to bark. They are very friendly, loyal, and energetic pets to have in your home. You will find they do better in outside kennels and should not be placed in apartment living.
The American foxhound looks much likes it UK counterpart in that it has the same color pattern and body type. You will find the American foxhound is a little taller and a little light in the body, but they are still about the same. The height of this foxhound is 21 to 25 inches with 65 to 75 pounds. They have straight bones adding to the height and making them a bit more agile as foxhounds. They have floppy ears, a long tail, and thin legs. They are usually white with black spots, and a brown head; however they can be just about any colour. The American foxhound was breed from the English descendent and the French hound.
For proper care of your foxhound you will need to have a small or large home with plenty of backyard. The foxhound likes to run around during the day and play. They also need attention from their owner. They should not be left alone for long periods of time. Exercise should be given daily, especially long walks. Usually two to three walks a day are needed. Typically if you provide the right care they can live for twelve years. They are prone to some health conditions that are genetic like hip dysplasia and bone problems, but on the whole they are very healthy. Grooming is important on a weekly basis. The short hair requires a brushing to remove dead or loose hair. They should only be shampooed when necessary as they have sensitive skin. They are an average shedder all year long, so it helps to brush them often. For nutrition it is best to supply them with a high protein diet, with little meals throughout the day to prevent weight gain.
As you can imagine there are many hounds that have been used for fox hunting and other hunting over the years. In the UK most are familiar with the foxhounds. The American foxhound is really just another breed of the UK foxhound that has been adapted. If you are looking for a lovable dog that will want to play, exercise, and have a generally good time in your back yard you may be interested in the American foxhound.
Both Michael Russell & Gerry Ronson are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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