American Foxhound: What to Know About This Historic Dog
The American Foxhound, a breed steeped in American history, is a scent hound known for its speed, stamina, and melodious bay. Developed primarily for hunting foxes, this breed boasts a unique lineage and a loyal temperament. This article delves deep into the world of the American Foxhound, exploring its history, physical characteristics, temperament, health, exercise needs, grooming requirements, and suitability for families.
History of the American Foxhound
One of the first breeds to originate in the United States, the American Foxhound’s history is closely intertwined with the early days of the country. In 1650, Robert Brooke arrived in the colonies from England with his pack of hunting dogs, which formed the foundation for several American hound strains. These “Brooke Hounds” remained within the family for almost three centuries, representing a remarkable record of continuous breeding.
George Washington, an avid fox hunter and dog enthusiast, played a pivotal role in the breed’s development. He sought to enhance the speed and tracking abilities of his existing hounds by introducing French Foxhounds (Grand Bleu de Gascogne), which were gifted by Marquis de Lafayette. It is from these French hounds that the American Foxhound inherited its musical bark, often heard echoing through the countryside during hunts. Washington further diversified the bloodline with hounds from Philadelphia and England. This meticulous breeding program, combining European and American lines, resulted in the American Foxhound as we know it today.
In 1966, the state of Virginia designated the American Foxhound as its official state dog, a testament to its historical significance and enduring popularity in the region.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886, the American Foxhound has since branched into various strains, each with distinct characteristics. These strains, summarized in the table below, cater to different hunting styles and preferences:
| Strain | Characteristics | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Walker | Most common show hound | |
| Penn-Marydel | Pack hunting on horseback | |
| Trigg | Fast and tenacious | Hunting |
| Calhoun | ||
| Goodman | ||
| July |
Today, American Foxhounds are categorized into four main groups:
- Field-Trial Hounds: Known for their speed and competitiveness in organized field trials.
- Fox Hunting Hounds: Used for traditional fox hunting, often in packs, and recognized for their musical howls.
- Trail Hounds: Bred for racing and hunting artificial lures.
- Pack Hounds: Trained to follow their owner (on horseback) in large packs during hunts.
Physical Characteristics
The American Foxhound is a medium-sized dog with a lean, athletic build. Males typically stand at 22 to 25 inches tall, while females range from 21 to 24 inches. Their weight varies between 55 to 71 pounds, with males generally being heavier than females. They are known for their gentle, pleading expression.
Here’s a closer look at their defining features:
- Head: Slightly domed skull with a long muzzle.
- Ears: Long, large, and low-set.
- Eyes: Large, wide-set, and hazel or brown in color.
- Coat: Short, hard, and close-lying, offering protection while hunting. The coat can be any color, with the black, white, and tan combination being the most common.
- Legs: Long and straight-boned, contributing to their speed and agility.
- Tail: Slightly curved.
Compared to its English Foxhound cousin, the American Foxhound is taller and leaner, with longer legs and a slightly arched back end.
Temperament and Personality
The American Foxhound is best described as “docile but reserved”. They are known for their gentle and friendly nature, particularly with their families. They are typically docile, easygoing, and get along well with children and other animals. Their affectionate and loyal personality makes them devoted companions. However, they can be reserved with strangers.
Here are some key personality traits:
- Sweet-tempered: American Foxhounds are known for their kind and gentle disposition. They are not typically aggressive and enjoy the company of their human families.
- Loyal: They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their unwavering loyalty.
- Independent: Bred to hunt independently, they can be somewhat self-reliant. This independence can sometimes make them appear stubborn during training.
- Energetic: American Foxhounds have high energy levels and require plenty of exercise. They possess “huge energy stores” that need to be directed into appropriate activities. Without sufficient exercise and attention, they can become depressed and may exhibit destructive behaviors.
- Vocal: They have a distinctive howl or bay, often used while hunting, which can be quite loud. This is an inherited trait that cannot be trained out of them.
- Prone to Separation Anxiety: When left alone for extended periods, American Foxhounds can experience separation anxiety, leading to destructive behavior such as chewing, eating, and destroying things in the home.
- Fearless Hunters: When hunting, American Foxhounds are known for their fearlessness and determination, sometimes even engaging in risky behavior.
Health and Common Health Issues
While generally healthy, American Foxhounds can be prone to certain health conditions:
- Hip Dysplasia: This common condition in larger breeds affects the hip joint, potentially causing pain and mobility issues.
- Thrombocytopathy: A blood platelet disorder that can lead to excessive bleeding.
- Ear Infections: Their long, floppy ears can trap moisture, making them susceptible to infections.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland can cause various symptoms, including weight gain, lethargy, and hair loss.
- Dental Disease: American Foxhounds are more prone to dental problems than other breeds, making regular dental care crucial.
Regular veterinary checkups and preventative care are essential to ensure the well-being of your American Foxhound.
Exercise and Training Needs
Exercise Needs
Bred for endurance, American Foxhounds require significant exercise. They need at least one to two hours of vigorous activity daily to stay happy and healthy. This can include:
- Brisk walks or jogs
- Running alongside a bicycle
- Hiking
- Playing fetch or frisbee
- Participating in canine sports like tracking and agility
Due to their strong prey drive, they should always be exercised in a secure area or on a leash.
Training Needs
Training an American Foxhound can be challenging due to their independent nature and strong scent-tracking instincts. They may be prone to distraction and have a tendency to follow their nose, which can make obedience training more demanding. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques, they can be trained effectively. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they are well-adjusted and obedient.
Grooming Needs
The American Foxhound’s short, hard coat requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush or a hound glove is sufficient to remove loose hair and keep the coat clean. Bathing is only necessary when they get particularly dirty.
Regular ear checks are essential to prevent infections. Clean their ears with a vet-approved cleaner, especially after swimming or exposure to water. Nail trimming and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine.
Suitability for Families and Different Living Situations
American Foxhounds can be wonderful family dogs, but they are not suitable for every home. Their high energy levels and exercise needs make them a better fit for active individuals or families with large yards. They thrive in environments where they have ample space to run and play.
While generally good with children and gentle with their owners and children, supervision is necessary due to their size and energetic nature. They are also known to get along with other dogs, especially if raised together. However, their high energy and tendency to howl might make them less suitable for families with very young children or those living in apartments. Their strong prey drive may pose a risk to smaller pets, so careful introductions and supervision are crucial.
Their loud baying can be a concern for those living in close proximity to neighbors. Therefore, American Foxhounds are generally better suited for rural environments or homes with ample space.
Conclusion
The American Foxhound is a unique breed with a rich history and a loyal temperament. Their athleticism, gentle nature, and distinctive bay make them a fascinating companion for the right owner. While their high energy levels and independent streak require dedicated training and exercise, the rewards of owning an American Foxhound are plentiful. They are affectionate, playful, and devoted companions who bring a touch of American history into your home.
If you are considering welcoming an American Foxhound into your life, be sure to research reputable breeders or rescue organizations. The American Foxhound Club is an excellent resource for finding breeders and learning more about this captivating breed.
