Quick Stats for the American Foxhound Dog
- Height (at the shoulders): 21 – 25 inches (53 – 64 cm)
- Weight: 65 – 75 pounds (29 – 34 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
- AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1886
- Shedding: average shedder
- Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; very active indoors; best with open space
Personality of the American Foxhound Dog
American Foxhounds are affectionate, gentle, and loyal dogs. They were bred for hunting, but make excellent family pets regardless of any hunting activities. They are excellent with children. However, they are recommended for families who live an active lifestyle, or who are serious about making sure they get plenty of exercise. They have very high energy levels and can develop behavioral problems if not provided with sufficient exercise.
They get along with just about everyone, even strangers. However, that does not mean that they will not protect their families and property.
These dogs like to bay and their barks have often been described as melodious.
History of the American Foxhound Dog
The origin of the American Foxhound goes as far back as 1650. It was one of the first American dog breeds to come from England and recorded as an experienced fox chaser. By the mid 1700s, a favorite form of entertainment, especially among the upper class, was to watch these hounds chase prey.
Before long, these dogs were imported from France, England, and Ireland. You can find records of Foxhound pedigrees going as far back as 1850. Around this time, fox hunting became very popular throughout the southern United States. The most popular areas for fox hunting were the mountains of Kentucky and Tennessee.
These dogs were amazing and agile hunters that were perfect companions for fox hunts. They not only had the ability to track prey, but they were also able to make the kill when necessary. Because of these skills, they were the preferred hunting breed among hunters.
Over time, the American Foxhound became more streamlined than its cousin, the English Foxhound. They actually developed into two distinct breeds and are recognized as different dogs by the AKC.
The American Foxhound was one of the earliest breeds recognized by the AKC and was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886.
The American Foxhound Dog Care and Grooming
These dogs require vigorous daily exercise in the form of long brisk walks, a long jog, or even running alongside you while you ride your bike. Because of their high energy levels, they are recommended for families who can commit to providing them with lots of exercise daily.
Their smooth, short coats are pretty easy to maintain and require just an occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush to remove any dead hairs.
American Foxhounds are average shedders.
Health Problems of the American Foxhound Dog
The average life expectancy of the American Foxhound dog is about ten to twelve years.
There are no major health concerns for this dog breed.
Minor health issues include:
- tends to gain weight easily
These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:
- thrombopathy
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:
[...] the American Foxhound, the English Foxhound has not major health [...]
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Omar Reyes, Omar Reyes. Omar Reyes said: American Foxhound Dog Breed Profile http://goo.gl/fb/X85Dj [...]