Concerning foxhounds, the American, a member of the Hound group, is an ideal choice for those who live in rural areas or on large farms. George Washington Mauphin is considered to be the “Father” of the breed. His dogs were considered some of the fastest running Foxhounds ever produced during his lifetime.
It's short glossy coat is easy to keep clean but keep in mind that The AFH needs lots and lots of regular exercise. This particular breed usually enjoys the company of other dogs quite well and can easily become bored if kept alone and by itself.
This dog breeds origins date back to the early 1700's in the states of Virginia and Maryland. By the mid-1700s, watching these hounds follow prey became a favorite pastime, especially for the upper class of that time.
American Fox hound
Over time, the Am. Foxhound become more streamlined than its English counterpart, especially developing into all the different strains. The 'Walker' became the most popular - originally descended from a dog named Tennessee Lead.
These main strains - Walker, Trigg, Hudspeth, Calhoun, July and Goodman - make up the major portions of what is called the American Fox hound by The AKC today.
Generally speaking, owners/breeders consider American to be more people oriented than their English counterparts.
Country of origin: United States Lifespan: 10-13 years Colors: Any color - most commonly red and white, black and tan or tricolor Known health problems: Very rarely deafness, prone to obesity without proper exercise
See an American Fox hound
English Foxhound
A member of the Hound group, The English Foxhound is an intelligent, courageous pack-hound with a cheerful, determined disposition. This dog breed, which dates back to 16th and 17th century England, is still used in packs for hunting fox today.
These dogs were bred to hunt and run for great distances. They need a great deal of exercise and can become restless and destructive without it.
They are an amazingly agile hunter. They have the ability to track down and find its target, but also to make the kill when needed.
Many hunters prefer the Foxhound over any other hunting dogs simply because of these inherent skills.
See an English Fox hound in action
The English's coat is short, hard, and glossy and comes in colors of black, tan, and white or any combination of these. Minimal grooming is required of their short, dense coat.
The English Fox hound needs lots of exercise and are happiest with those who live in rural areas or on large farms. They also have high energy levels.
Males are 20-24 inches tall and 50-75 pounds, females a bit smaller. They are also slightly smaller than the American Fox hound.
These dogs are not traditionally fed as house pets. Additionally they are not fed the day before a hunt.
These dogs are good with older children and other pets yet are reserved with strangers. Generally speaking, owners/breeders consider English Fox hounds to be more aloof than their American counterparts.
Country of origin: England Lifespan: 10-13 years Colors: Bicolored (tan and white), tricolored (black, tan and white) with more white Known health problems: Kidney disease and seizures, hip dysplasia, leishmaniasis (rare tropical disease that often leads to death)
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