The American Foxhound
A Musical Runner
The American Foxhound is a very old dog breed from the United States. They were originally bred to run long distances and follow scents with their noses. They are known for being very friendly and for having a loud, beautiful bark that sounds like a song.
HISTORY
These dogs have been in America for a very long time. In fact, George Washington helped create the breed! They were developed by mixing English hounds with other dogs to make a faster runner that could handle the thick woods and fields of Virginia.
LIVING NEEDS
Even though they are pets, Foxhounds are not meant to live in small apartments. They love wide-open spaces like big backyards or farms. Because they have so much energy, they need plenty of room to run and play every single day.
DIET
As domestic pets, American Foxhounds eat high-quality dog food. Because they run so much, they need food that gives them lots of energy. They are also known for being very "food motivated," which means they will do almost anything for a yummy dog treat!
LIFE CYCLE & PUPPIES
Foxhounds start their lives as tiny, energetic puppies. A mother can have a litter of about 5 to 7 puppies. These dogs usually live to be 10 to 12 years old. As they grow from puppies into adults, they need lots of training to help them use their smart brains and strong noses.
SIZE & WEIGHT
The American Foxhound is a tall and athletic dog. They usually stand about 21 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. They are lean and muscular, weighing between 60 and 70 pounds. That is about the same weight as a large bale of hay or a big bag of dog food.
PET CARE
Foxhounds are generally very healthy dogs. To stay safe, they should always be kept in a fenced yard or on a leash. If they catch a scent of a rabbit or a deer, their noses will take over and they might run very far away before they realize they are lost!
ADAPTATIONS
Even though they are not wild, these dogs have special features that help them do their jobs.
A Super Nose: A Foxhound can follow a scent trail for miles, even if the trail is old or hidden under leaves.
Long Legs: Their long, straight legs are built for speed and endurance, allowing them to run for hours without getting tired.
The "Bay": Instead of a normal bark, they have a deep "bay" that carries a long distance so their owners can find them in the woods.
FUN FACTS
Music in the Woods: When a group of Foxhounds barks together while running, it is often called "hound music" because of the different tones in their voices.
Famous Owners: Besides George Washington, many other early American leaders kept these hounds for hunting and as companions.
Easy Grooming: They have very short, smooth fur that is easy to keep clean, though they do need a good brushing every now and then.
BEHAVIOR
These dogs are very social. They get along great with other dogs and are usually very gentle with children. In the Burgess stories, characters like Old Man Coyote might have to watch out for hounds, but in a home, they are known for being sweet and easy-going.
RESPECTING WILDLIFE
Because the American Foxhound was bred to run and hunt in large groups, they have very specific needs when living in a modern neighborhood.
Managing the "Song": Foxhounds love to use their voices! Being a good neighbor means giving them plenty of exercise during the day so they are tired and quiet at night. Using "white noise" machines inside can also help keep them from baying at every squirrel that runs past the window.
The Nose Knows: These dogs have an incredible sense of smell. If they catch a scent, they might follow it for miles without looking back. Neighbors can help by ensuring their yards have tall, secure fences, as a Foxhound might try to leap over a small fence to follow a "smell trail."
A Social Friend: Foxhounds are very friendly and usually get along great with other dogs. They view their neighborhood as their "pack." Organizing "doggy playdates" is a wonderful way to keep a Foxhound happy and socialized with the other pets on the block.
Safety on the Leash: Because their instinct to hunt is so strong, a Foxhound should always be on a leash when walking in the neighborhood. Even the best-trained hound can forget to "stay" if they see a rabbit or a deer!
American Foxhound Photos
