The American Foxhound is a breed of dog that was developed in the United States for the purpose of hunting foxes. The breed is believed to have descended from English Foxhounds that were brought to the United States by early colonists in the 1600s.
The American Foxhound was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1886 and is now one of the oldest breeds of dogs in the United States. The breed is known for its stamina, athleticism, and ability to track and hunt game over long distances.
Distinctive Features of American Foxhound
| Scientific Name | Canis lupus familiaris |
| Lifespan | Up to 13 years |
| Color | Any color, including red, black, tan, and white |
| Size | Up to 25 inches |
| Weight | Up to 70 pounds |
| Unique Trait | Strong sense of smell and ability to track and hunt |
| Famous For | Foxhunting |
| Temperament | Friendly and outgoing, but can be independent and stubborn |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Adaptability | Adaptable to different environments, but requires exercise |
| Behavior | Generally good with children, but may be too energetic for very young kids |
| Personality | Energetic and playful, but can be independent and stubborn |
| Social | Generally social and gets along well with other dogs |
The American Foxhound typically stands between 21–25 inches at the withers and weighs between 55–70 pounds. Foxhounds have long, straight legs and a narrow chest. Their muzzle is long, and they have a large, domed skull. The ears are wide and set low, while the eyes are large, wide-set, and typically hazel or brown.
How to take care of your pet American Foxhound?
American Foxhounds are energetic and friendly dogs, known for their hunting abilities and sociable nature. To ensure they stay healthy and content, it's essential to meet their exercise requirements, provide social interaction, and engage them in mental stimulation. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary check-ups are also crucial for their well-being.
How to set up a habitat for your pet American Foxhound?
If you are considering adopting an American Foxhound as a pet, it's important to create a suitable habitat for them. Here are a few things to consider:
- Space: American Foxhounds are energetic dogs and need plenty of room to run and play. If you live in a small apartment or house, it may be difficult to provide them with the space and exercise they need. Consider adopting an American Foxhound if you have a large yard or live in a rural area where they can have plenty of space to run and explore.
- Fencing: It's important to have a secure fence to keep your American Foxhound safe and contained. The fence should be at least 5-6 feet tall and have a secure latch to prevent your dog from escaping.
- Shelter: American Foxhounds need a secure, weather-proof shelter to protect them from the elements. A dog house or covered area will provide them with a place to rest and escape from the sun or rain.
- Bedding: Provide your American Foxhound with a comfortable bed or crate to sleep in. A soft, padded bed or crate will provide them with a comfortable place to rest and sleep.
What to feed your pet American Foxhound?
It's important to feed your American Foxhound a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet to keep them healthy and happy. Look for a commercial dog food that is formulated for active dogs and meets the nutritional requirements of the American Foxhound.
When selecting a food for your American Foxhound, look for a product that is made with high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, fish, or beef.
In addition to a commercial dog food, you can also supplement your American Foxhound's diet with homemade meals or treats. Some options to consider include cooked chicken, turkey, or beef; vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and green beans; and rice or pasta.
What to avoid feeding your pet American Foxhound?
There are a few things that you should avoid feeding your American Foxhound to keep them healthy and happy:
- Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors in dogs.
- Artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives: Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives in American Foxhound's diet for better health.
- Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins can be toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney failure.
- Onions and garlic: Onions and garlic contain compounds that can be toxic to dogs and can cause anemia and other health problems.
- Fatty or spicy foods: Fatty or spicy foods can cause stomach upset and other digestive problems in dogs.
- Bones: Bones can splinter and cause choking or blockages in the digestive system of dogs.
Brushing, bathing, and grooming needs of pet American Foxhounds
American Foxhounds have a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for. They typically only need to be brushed once or twice a week to remove dead hair and keep their coat looking clean and shiny.
In terms of bathing, American Foxhounds only need to be bathed every few months or as needed. Be sure to use a high-quality dog shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.
American Foxhounds have long, floppy ears that should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent ear infections. It's also important to trim their nails regularly to prevent them from becoming too long.
Health concerns of pet American Foxhounds
Like all breeds, American Foxhounds are prone to certain health problems. Some common health concerns to be aware of include:
- Thrombocytopenia: Thrombocytopenia is a low platelet count in American Foxhounds, affecting blood clotting. Prompt veterinary evaluation is crucial for diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint develops abnormally, causing pain and difficulty with movement.
- Thyroid problems: American Foxhounds are prone to thyroid problems, including hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
- Ear infections: American Foxhounds can develop ear infections due to their floppy ears, which trap moisture and debris. Regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and prompt veterinary attention are crucial for prevention and treatment.
- Arthritis: American Foxhounds can develop arthritis, causing joint inflammation and pain.
- Kidney problems: American Foxhounds may develop kidney problems, including kidney disease or kidney stones, leading to symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Early detection and treatment are crucial.
- Allergies: American Foxhounds can develop allergies to certain foods or environmental allergens, such as pollen or grass.
To help prevent these health issues, it's important to keep your American Foxhound up-to-date on their vaccinations and to have them regularly checked by a veterinarian.
Training and playing with your pet American Foxhounds
American Foxhounds are intelligent and energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They are generally easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and praise.
To keep your American Foxhound entertained and exercised, be sure to provide them with plenty of opportunities for play and exercise. This can include walks, runs, and games of fetch.
Other pets to keep or avoid with American Foxhounds
American Foxhounds generally get along well with other dogs, but they may be too energetic for smaller or more timid breeds. If you have other pets at home, be sure to introduce them slowly and under close supervision to ensure that they get along well.
It's also important to keep in mind that American Foxhounds are bred for hunting and may have a strong prey drive. They may be more likely to chase or try to hunt small animals like cats or rodents. If you have a cat or other small pets at home, it's important to be cautious and keep them separated when necessary to prevent any accidents.
Facts about American Foxhounds
- The American Foxhound is the state dog of Virginia.
- American Foxhounds are known for their strong sense of smell and ability to track and hunt game over long distances.
- The breed is known for its stamina, athleticism, and endurance.
- American Foxhounds are generally friendly and outgoing but can be independent and stubborn at times.
- The breed has a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for.
What it's like to keep an American Foxhound as a pet?
American Foxhounds are energetic and athletic dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They are generally friendly and outgoing, but can be independent and stubborn at times.
If you are considering adopting an American Foxhound as a pet, it's important to be prepared to provide them with plenty of space to run and play and to give them the exercise and mental stimulation they need. They may not do well in a sedentary lifestyle and may require regular walks, runs, and other forms of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
American Foxhounds are generally easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. They are intelligent and eager to please but may be more independent and stubborn at times.
Frequently Asked Questions About American Foxhounds
How much exercise does an American Foxhound need?
American Foxhounds are energetic and athletic dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They require at least an hour of exercise per day, including walks, runs, and other forms of activity.
Are American Foxhounds good with kids?
American Foxhounds are generally good with children, but they may be too energetic for very young kids. As with any breed, it's important to teach children how to interact appropriately with dogs and to never leave them unsupervised.
How do I train my American Foxhound?
American Foxhounds are generally easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and praise. It's important to be consistent and patient when training your American Foxhound, as they may be more independent and stubborn at times.
Are American Foxhounds prone to any health problems?
Like all breeds, American Foxhounds are prone to certain health problems, including Thrombocytopenia, hip dysplasia, thyroid problems, allergies, and ear infections. To help prevent these health issues, it's important to keep your American Foxhound up to date on their vaccinations and to have them regularly checked by a veterinarian.
