All about English Foxhound dog breed

All You Need to Know About the English Foxhound Breed

English Foxhound Weight: The average healthy weight for an adult English Foxhound is between 65-75 pounds. While there's generally not a significant difference in average size between males and females, males may sometimes fall on the higher end of this range. This is the typical English Foxhound weight range you can expect for a well-conditioned adult.

Here's a breakdown of the English Foxhound height you can expect:The average size of an adult English Foxhound, measured at the shoulder, typically falls between 21 and 25 inches tall.While there isn't a dramatic difference, you might observe that male English Foxhounds often trend towards the higher end of this range, while female English Foxhounds might be found more commonly at the lower to middle end. However, individual genetics play a significant role, meaning some females can be as tall as larger males and vice-versa.So, when considering how tall is an English Foxhound, remember this 21-25 inch range at the shoulder is a good general guideline for a healthy adult. This robust build makes them well-suited for their historical role!

English Foxhound colors are traditionally a mix of any recognized hound colors. The AKC recognized English Foxhound colors generally include combinations of black, white, and tan, often appearing in a classic tri-color pattern. Other accepted variations include bi-color patterns with white and tan, or white and black. You may also see shades of fawn, lemon, and red with white markings, or even solid white with minimal markings, though full solid colors are less common. These traditional colors are what you'll most often find and are fully accepted by major kennel clubs, making them standard for English Foxhound pricing and show rings.

The English Foxhound personality is primarily driven by their heritage as a pack hunter. They are exceptionally friendly and sociable, thriving on companionship from both humans and other dogs. This makes them loyal and affectionate with their families. They are generally good with children, especially those who understand how to interact gently with a dog, though their boisterous nature means supervision is always wise. Similarly, their pack instincts often translate into positive relationships with other pets, particularly other dogs, as long as proper introductions are made. While not typically aggressive, their strong prey drive means careful introductions are necessary with smaller, non-canine pets. The temperament of English Foxhound is not suited for apartment living; they require significant daily exercise and ample space to run and explore. They are high-energy dogs that can become bored and destructive without sufficient mental and physical stimulation.

The English Foxhound temperament is generally described as good-natured, sociable, and even-tempered. These dogs are typically very friendly with people and other dogs, making them excellent companions for active families. They are loyal to their owners, though sometimes independent. English Foxhounds are not naturally suited for apartment living due to their high energy levels and need for ample exercise and outdoor space; a home with a secure yard is ideal. They are generally good with children, especially if raised with them, and often tolerant of other pets, particularly if socialized early. While not overly sensitive, they can exhibit a degree of stubbornness, a common hound trait, which means consistent and patient training is key. Their strong pack drive makes them thrive on companionship, whether from humans or other dogs. Overall, their personality traits make them a delightful and enduring companion for those who can meet their activity needs.

English Foxhound Care: Daily Maintenance & Health TipsEnglish Foxhound care is generally straightforward, making them a relatively low-maintenance dog breed despite their size. Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming needs, typically a weekly brushing to remove loose hair and stimulate the skin. They are moderate shedder, with heavier shedding periods seasonally. Regular nail trims every 3-4 weeks are essential.While historically bred for endurance, the modern English Foxhound is often a low-energy dog breed indoors, making their exercise limitations important to understand. They need a brisk walk or jog for at least 30-60 minutes daily to prevent boredom and maintain a healthy weight. Securely fenced yards are a must, as their strong prey drive and excellent scenting ability can lead them to wander.Dietary considerations for English Foxhounds involve a high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their life stage and activity level. Portion control is crucial as they are prone to weight gain, making weight management a key aspect of their care. Avoid free-feeding.Unlike some brachycephalic breeds, the English Foxhound does not have the severe anatomical issues. However, regular ear cleaning is important to prevent infections, especially for dogs with floppy ears, and occasional inspection for any developing skin issues. While they don't have prominent wrinkles, a general wipe-down can keep their coat clean. They generally tolerate a wide range of climates but should be protected from extreme heat during exercise.Common health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions like cataracts, and bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), which requires immediate veterinary attention. Regular dental care, including daily brushing or dental chews, is vital to prevent periodontal disease. Proactive veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and management of any health issues. Understanding how to care for an English Foxhound ensures a happy and healthy companion.

The English Foxhound activity level is surprisingly moderate despite their athletic build. They are a "balance" breed, known for short bursts of energy followed by long periods of rest. They are not perpetually "on" like some high-drive breeds.

I would rate the "Size" trait of the English Foxhound a 7. They are undeniably a medium-large breed, leaning more towards large when considering their sturdy bone structure and considerable muscle mass. With an average height ranging from 21 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 55 to 70 pounds, they are significantly larger than most common companion dogs like Shih Tzus, Beagles, or even most Spaniels. Their athletic and well-muscled build further contributes to their substantial presence. While not a giant breed like a Great Dane or Irish Wolfhound, they are certainly not a lap dog. Due to their size and need for ample exercise, English Foxhounds are not well-suited for apartment living or households with significant space constraints. They thrive in homes with large, securely fenced yards and are better suited for owners who can provide them with plenty of outdoor space and activity. Their size can also make them a bit cumbersome for frequent travel, unless in a large vehicle.

I would rate the grooming requirements of the English Foxhound at a 3 out of 10.English Foxhounds are a very low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Their short, dense, and hard coat is designed for durability in the field, not for extensive salon care. They are moderate, seasonal shedders, but a weekly brush with a rubber curry or shedding blade is usually sufficient to manage loose hair and keep their coat healthy and shiny. They don't have long hair that mats easily or requires professional trimming. Skin folds are not a typical feature, and their ears, while needing regular checks for cleanliness to prevent infections, are not prone to excessive wax buildup or special care like those of a Basset Hound. Nail trimming is standard for all dogs and should be done as needed, but is not a uniquely demanding task for this breed. Bathing is only required when they get particularly dirty, perhaps after a romp in the mud, and they generally aren't prone to extensive skin issues or allergies that necessitate specialized bathing products. Compared to many other companion dogs with elaborate coats or sensitive skin, the English Foxhound is remarkably easy to care for and requires minimal, straightforward grooming.

I would rate the English Foxhound's exercise requirements as an 8. This breed possesses an incredibly high amount of energy and an innate drive for movement, stemming from centuries of being bred for long, strenuous hunts. They are built for endurance and sustained activity, capable of covering vast distances at a brisk pace. Daily, they require significant structured exercise, far beyond a simple walk around the block. Without substantial outlets for their energy – think multiple hours of vigorous activity, such as long runs, hikes, or extensive free play in a secure area – they are prone to becoming bored, destructive, and developing behavioral issues. Their respiratory system is well-suited for extended exertion, unlike brachycephalic breeds, allowing them to truly thrive with high-intensity activities. They excel in sports like canicross, bikejoring, or even long-distance agility, and are excellent companions for active individuals who enjoy outdoor pursuits. They do not thrive with minimal activity; in fact, a sedentary lifestyle would be detrimental to their physical and mental well-being, leading to frustration and potential health problems.

I would rate the English Foxhound's "Watchdog Ability" as a 3 out of 10.While the English Foxhound possesses a loud, booming bark, which might initially seem like an advantage for a watchdog, their inherent temperament and historical purpose work against them in this role. They are bred for stamina and following a scent over long distances, not for guarding territory or being suspicious of strangers. Their alertness is primarily focused on the hunt, and in a domestic setting, they are far more likely to be curious or even friendly towards an unfamiliar person than to view them as a threat. Their territorial instincts are low; they generally greet most people with enthusiasm rather than suspicion. While they might bark at a squirrel or another animal in the yard, their response to truly unfamiliar human sounds or people is more likely to be a curious investigation or a wagging tail rather than a deterring bark or defensive stance. They are far more of a passive companion, albeit a boisterous one, who will likely announce visitors with a happy bark but offer little meaningful early warning or deterrence in a home environment. They are more likely to lead an intruder to the treat jar than to chase them away.

I would rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the English Foxhound a 9 out of 10.English Foxhounds were specifically bred to work in large packs, and this ingrained pack mentality translates into a generally high level of sociability with other dogs. They typically thrive in canine company and genuinely enjoy the presence of other canines, often exhibiting playful and tolerant behavior around unfamiliar dogs. Their even temperament usually makes them adaptable to dogs of various sizes and energy levels, though their own high energy means they appreciate canine companions who can keep up. While proper socialization is always beneficial for any dog, Foxhounds tend to be naturally less prone to aggression or dominance disputes with other dogs, often preferring to avoid conflict. They are excellent candidates for multi-dog households and often feel most content when they have canine companions. While careful introductions are always a good practice, they rarely require extensive training to coexist peacefully and typically settle in quickly with other friendly dogs.

I'd rate the English Foxhound's "Energetic" trait at an 8 out of 10.This breed possesses a naturally high activity level and remarkable endurance, a direct result of its heritage as a hunting dog. English Foxhounds are built for long days of running and trailing, requiring significant physical stimulation to remain content and well-behaved. They are incredibly playful and thrive on opportunities to participate in vigorous outdoor activities like long walks, runs, and even agility or other dog sports. Compared to many companion dogs, they are far from laid-back and demand a consistent and robust exercise regimen.It's crucial to note that while some foxhound breeds can be brachycephalic, the English Foxhound generally has a more athletic, mesocephalic (medium-length) skull and muzzle. This anatomy, unlike true brachycephalic breeds, does not typically impede their breathing or significantly affect their stamina and exercise tolerance. In fact, their moderate muzzle length is well-suited for sustained effort, allowing them to breathe efficiently during prolonged activity. They are built for endurance and would excel in, and indeed require, activities that challenge their stamina.

I would rate the English Foxhound's "Training Requirements" a 7 out of 10.While intelligent, their deeply ingrained hunting instincts make them prone to stubbornness and a short attention span when a more exciting scent is present. They are not naturally eager to please in the same way some other breeds are, requiring a very high level of consistency and patience to achieve reliable responsiveness to commands. Positive reinforcement is effective, but it needs to be exceptionally engaging and often food-motivated to compete with their drive to follow a trail. This breed is definitely not beginner-friendly and requires an experienced handler who understands the hound mindset, can provide structured routines, and has the dedication to work through their independent nature. Without consistent, firm, and fair training, they can be a challenge to manage.

I would rate the English Foxhound's "Playful" trait a 7 out of 10. While not hyperactive, they are undeniably energetic and possess a strong desire for activity and interaction. They absolutely love games, especially those involving their keen sense of smell, and will enthusiastically engage with toys, particularly if there's a "hunt" involved. Their attention-seeking behavior is more about wanting to be involved in the family's activities rather than constant demands for belly rubs, but they will certainly let you know when they're bored. Compared to a more laid-back breed, the English Foxhound is naturally spirited and always ready for an adventure, though perhaps less overtly clownish than some other companion dogs. They find joy in their daily "work" of sniffing and exploring, which translates into a fun-loving attitude towards life, but their playful moments are often tied to their natural instincts.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the English Foxhound a 4 out of 10. While loyal and dedicated to their pack, which includes their human family, English Foxhounds are not typically known for being overly demonstrative or clingy. They possess a more independent and stoic nature compared to many companion breeds. They appreciate human companionship and will follow their family members around, but they aren't generally lap dogs or avid cuddlers. Their affection tends to be expressed through their presence and unwavering dedication to their "pack," rather than through constant physical closeness or effusive displays. They are sensitive to owner emotions, but might not seek to comfort in the same way a more people-oriented breed would. They thrive on having a purpose and being part of a group, but their need for constant affection is less pronounced than their need for activity and a job to do.

I would rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the English Foxhound a 6 out of 10.English Foxhounds were bred to hunt in packs, making them naturally inclined to be sociable with other dogs. This inherent pack mentality often translates into a generally amicable disposition towards canine companions, and they typically enjoy the company of other dogs, viewing them as part of their "pack." However, their strong prey drive, deeply ingrained from generations of hunting foxes, means they require significant socialization and consistent supervision to coexist peacefully with smaller, non-canine pets like cats, rabbits, or birds. Without proper early introduction and ongoing training, that prey drive can easily override their otherwise friendly nature. While they aren't typically prone to severe resource guarding, their boisterous nature and love for food can sometimes lead to competition, especially around meals or high-value treats, requiring management in multi-pet households. They are adaptable, but their desire to chase needs to be carefully managed and redirected to ensure the safety of smaller household members. Therefore, while good with other dogs, their intense prey drive necessitates careful management and training for harmony with other types of pets.

The English Foxhound rates a 6 out of 10 for "Good with Children."While not inherently aggressive, their rating reflects a need for careful management rather than natural child-friendliness. English Foxhounds were bred for stamina and a strong prey drive, not for quiet companionship. Their temperament is generally even-keeled but also independent and focused on the "hunt." They possess a high energy level and require substantial exercise, which, if not met, can lead to boredom and potentially boisterous behavior that might overwhelm smaller children.They are generally patient with handling once accustomed to it, but their tolerance for typical child-like roughhousing or unpredictable movements can be limited, especially if they haven't been thoroughly socialized from a young age. While they can be playful, their play style might be more robust than gentle, making them better suited for families with older, more considerate children who understand how to interact respectfully with a large, powerful dog. Supervision is crucial, as is consistent training for both the dog and the children, to ensure a harmonious environment. They are not naturally affectionate in a cuddly sense; their bond with family tends to be more about loyalty and shared activity. With extensive training, socialization, and ample exercise, they can be good companions, but they are not the "naturally gentle and affectionate" breed often sought by families with young children.

The English Foxhound rates an 8 out of 10 for "Good with Strangers." This breed is naturally sociable and amiable, bred to work in large packs alongside other dogs and humans, including huntsmen who might not be intimately familiar. They are generally friendly and welcoming towards unfamiliar adults, exhibiting a tail wag and an eagerness for attention rather than suspicion. While not typically barkers or guarders by nature, their pack mentality means they thrive in social settings and adapt well to public or guest-filled environments, enjoying the company. Their outgoing nature means they don't usually require extensive training to be comfortable with strangers, though basic obedience and early exposure are always beneficial for any dog.

The English Foxhound rates a 4 for "Winter" tolerance. They are a short-coated, lean breed with relatively low body fat, which offers little insulation against cold temperatures. While their size is substantial, it doesn't compensate for the lack of a dense undercoat or significant fat reserves. They are not brachycephalic, so respiratory issues due to cold are less of a concern than for some other breeds, but their overall physiology makes them susceptible to hypothermia in chilly conditions. They can enjoy outdoor activity in cold climates for short periods, but sustained exposure or very low temperatures are not well-tolerated. Compared to other companion dogs, English Foxhounds definitely require special care during winter months; they will need warm coats or sweaters for walks, particularly in areas with snow or freezing temperatures, and should not be left outdoors for extended periods without adequate shelter and warmth.

English Foxhounds, with their deep chests, long muzzles, and athletic build, are generally well-suited for moderate temperatures. While not brachycephalic, their need for regular exercise and their dense coat can make them susceptible to overheating in extreme heat. They excel in cooler weather for prolonged activity.Rating: 6/10English Foxhounds are not as sensitive as brachycephalic breeds, but they are far from having excellent heat tolerance. Their lean, muscular bodies are built for endurance, but this also means they generate significant heat during activity. They can struggle to regulate their body temperature effectively in hot and humid conditions, increasing their risk of heatstroke. During summer months, special care is required; outdoor activity should be limited to early mornings or late evenings, and strenuous exercise should be avoided altogether on very hot days. Access to shade, fresh water, and cool indoor environments is crucial. Unlike some companion dogs who can tolerate short bursts of activity in the heat, the English Foxhound's drive to run combined with their physical characteristics necessitate more vigilant management to prevent overheating.

I would rate the English Foxhound's "Healthiness" trait as an 8 out of 10.The English Foxhound is generally considered a remarkably robust and healthy breed. Their history as working dogs, bred for endurance and stamina, has contributed to a strong genetic pool with fewer of the exaggerated features that can lead to health complications in some other breeds. They typically have an excellent life expectancy of 10-13 years, which is good for a dog of their size.While no breed is entirely free from potential health issues, English Foxhounds are not prone to the severe breathing difficulties seen in brachycephalic breeds, nor do they commonly suffer from widespread joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia to the same extent as some larger, heavier breeds. Skin conditions are also not a prominent breed-specific issue. Responsible breeding practices further enhance their health, as breeders typically screen for common canine ailments, though these are less prevalent in the Foxhound. They are far from high-maintenance in terms of health, generally requiring standard preventive care like vaccinations and parasite control. Their robust nature makes them relatively low-maintenance in terms of health compared to many other companion dogs, requiring good nutrition and plenty of exercise to thrive, but rarely necessitating specialized veterinary intervention for breed-specific ailments.

I'd rate the "Protective" trait of the English Foxhound at a 3 out of 10.While English Foxhounds are undoubtedly loyal to their owners, their protective instincts are generally very low. They are primarily bred for stamina, scenting ability, and working cooperatively in a pack during hunts. This means they are inherently social, often friendly towards strangers, and lack the inherent suspicion or territorial drive that forms the basis of strong protective behavior. They are alert in the sense that they will notice things, but their reaction is more likely to be curiosity or a bay rather than a defensive posture. Their gentle nature, coupled with their desire to follow a scent, makes them more prone to greeting an intruder than challenging one. They are definitely more of a companion dog than capable of offering meaningful protection as a watchdog or guard dog in a household setting.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the English Foxhound a 7 out of 10.English Foxhounds are generally considered a long-lived breed compared to many other companion dogs. Their average life expectancy typically ranges from 10 to 13 years, and it's not uncommon for individuals to live even longer, sometimes up to 15 years with excellent care. They are a robust and hardy breed, largely free from the extreme genetic predispositions to serious health issues that plague some purebreds. While responsible breeding and care are always crucial, the breed's relatively limited genetic pool (due to being bred primarily for hunting performance rather than extreme aesthetics) seems to contribute to their good general health. They are not prone to many of the common orthopedic problems or widespread cancers seen in other larger breeds. Therefore, they fall into the long-lived category.