English Foxhound
Bold and Brave Hunter!
Background and Description:
The English Foxhound is primarily a scent hound. This breed originated out of the need to eliminate what was considered
at the time, an over population of foxes. At the height of this activity, it is believed that there were over 200 packs
of these dogs in service.
This breed excels in running with the pack on the trail of the fox or sometimes other
ground game. They have excellent scenting abilities as well as great endurance.
In appearance, they are very handsome dogs with a sharp and alert expression combined with sweet and appealing eyes. There
is a constant appearance of readiness and excitement in the action and set of the tail.
They are a very rare breed among the hounds.
Physical Appearance:
Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 55-75 lbs.
Color variations: All recognized hound colors, although the tri-color (black,
white and tan) seems to be the most popular.
Coat and Care:
The coat is short and dense and is weatherproof. Grooming is minimal consisting of a weekly brushing of the coat to keep a nice sheen
as well as to remove any loose hair. Bathing can be done as needed. Shedding is about average.
Personality and Traits:
From its heritage, this has always an active dog with lots of energy, so expect more of the same. It has a loving nature
and loves human companship even though he was not bred to be a companion dog, it likes attention and is adaptable to life as a family pet. At the same
time, this breed has an independent streak and training will need to be focused and consistent.
English Foxhounds are brave and alert dogs with protective instincts, making them attentive and vocal watchdogs.
Health:
English Foxhounds are a very healthy breed that can live up to eleven years with good care. That being said, the health conditions that
may affect them include kidney problems, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia.
Activity Level:
This dog has a lot of stamina and comes from an active background. Without an opportunity to exercise, they will often
have weight problems. Care should also be keep food intake in line with the activity level to avoid overfeeding.
Be sure to always use a leash on walks with your EF as he is extremely prey driven and will chase any animal of interest
in a heartbeat. This breed will easily keep up with active families that like to jog, run or power walk.
Space Needs:
Foxhounds will do better in an environment with plenty of room to run off their high energy, or with owners who can give
them lots of exercise. Rural property with acreage is the ideal, but any backyard must be fenced.
Children:
Lively and friendly with a gentle nature, English Foxhounds are good with children. Because of their "pack"
socialization, they also do well with other dogs in the household. They are not recommended to keep company with
other
non-canine pets.
No matter what the breed's reputation, the best policy in regard to children and pets, is to have an adult supervise activities
between them because both children and dogs are not always predictable!
Elderly:
Due to exercise needs, not the best breed to choose for inactive seniors, or more sedentary families.
Further Reading Resource:
English Foxhound, A Complete HandbookCovers breed history and standard, characteristics and
attributes, grooming, puppy care, housetraining, nutrition, basic training, health care and the disorders relevant to
the breed. Many color photos.
Read This Excellent Book
In Paperback Or
On Your
Kindle
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