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| American Foxhound |
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The American Foxhound shares the spotlight with very few other breeds as one of the true breeds of the US. Fast, alert, stubborn and sensitive, the American Foxhound does not seem to fit the mold of the desired pet of today, which is unfortunate. No doubt, this breed offers much that would make it one of the more highly regarded selections as a family companion otherwise. With an exceptionally gentle nature, extremely loyal and loving to family, its natural temperament makes it a far better choice for families, especially those with children than many more popular fluffy breeds. Instead, American Foxhounds, and the many other scenthound breeds are typically the first euthanized in shelters across the country because of there offensively low adoption rates. Those that do choose to adopt a dog of this sort are very rarely disappointed. This fate is especially tragic when one considers that the history and development of this breed was by the hands of the wealthiest and most powerful people in America. |
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| General Information |
| Group(s):
Hounds, Scent Hound |
Height: 21-25 inches |
| Weight: usually 50-70 pounds |
Longevity: 10-12 years |
| Colors: any color with tri-color with a saddle being the most common |
Coat type: smooth, short |
| Recognized Registries: UKC, AKC, NCA, FCI and others |
| Overall Appearance: Clearly athletic dog of stamina with sleek lines that are not overly refined. Deep chest, long legs of good substance with a good length of muzzle to provide stamina on long hunts. Typical hound ears speak of a scenthound of exceptional speed. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: moderate except when working |
| General Nature: |
exceptional |
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with Children: exceptional |
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with other pets: exceptional |
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with dogs: exceptional |
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| Socialization requirements: moderate if only to keep dog from being shy or excessively aloof |
| Ideal home characteristics: one that appreciates the extremely gentle nature of hounds and recognizes the challenges of a scenthound which can include howling, baying and difficulty with recall |
| Temperament Notes: aloof to strangers, minimal aggressive tendencies because it is bred to hunt in packs, gentle, sensitive, overwhelmed by anger, extremely responsive, powerful nose makes scent a huge distraction |
| Training requirement: minimal - socialization, some basic manners |
| Trainer notes: Extremely gentle and sensitive, the Foxhound responds best to patience and understanding. Creating a routine or encouraging minor improvement in the direction desired will result in an extremely happy, confident and trustworthy companion for the entire family. Among the best choices for a family with small children and a large secure fenced yard. |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: 1700s |
| Country of Origin: USA |
| Original Function: Scenthound for Fox and other prey but most popular for the equestrian hunt |
| History: Developed in Maryland and Virginia for the wealthy landed gentry who enjoyed their foxhunts. The American Foxhound grew in popularity with the sport. The wealthy were very protective of their uniform and exceptional packs. |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: too large or small, excessive bone or refinement |
| Health Notes: dysplasia, eye problems, ear problems |
| Health Testing: OFA, CERF |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
- How long have you had American Foxhounds?
- At what age do you release your puppies to their new homes?
- Where do you whelp and raise your puppies?
- How many American Foxhounds do you have?
- How did you choose this breeding pair?
- What criteria do you use for your breeding stock? Titles? Health Clearances?
- What do you consider a good American Foxhound temperament?
- Do you microchip your puppies?
- What veterinary care do the puppies receive prior to placement?
- Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
- Do you plan to keep a puppy from this litter?
- Do you have any advice on training or socializing for the new puppy owner?
- What health concerns have you observed in the breed?
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| Web Sites: http://www.foxhoundrescue.org - Dedicated and active Foxhound Rescue in the US
http://www.americanfoxhoundclubinc.com/Rescue.htm- American Foxhound Club Rescue |
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| Other Resources |
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