American Foxhound

Other Names

American Foxhound

History

The American Foxhound is one of the oldest dog breeds in the United States, developed in the 17th century by European immigrants. The breed was originally used for fox hunting and is known for its stamina and speed. They were bred from English and French Foxhounds, resulting in their unique appearance and temperament. While popular in the hunting community, they are rarely seen as companion dogs in the Netherlands.

Character and Temperament

The American Foxhound is friendly, energetic, and independent. They are gentle with people but can sometimes be reserved with strangers. Their strong hunting instinct can make them stubborn, which makes training challenging. They thrive in an active environment and need an owner who understands their physical and mental needs.

External Features

Shoulder height: 53-64 cm
Weight: 29-34 kg
Coat: Short, dense and weather-resistant
Color: Many variations, including tricolor, black and white, and brown and white.
Neck circumference: 40-50 cm (for collars)
Chest circumference: 70-85 cm (for harnesses)

Care

The American Foxhound's short coat is easy to maintain. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy. Regular checks of ears, teeth, and nails are important, especially after outdoor activities.

Movement and Activity

The American Foxhound has a high energy level and requires a lot of exercise. Long walks, runs, and scent games are ideal for supporting their physical and mental well-being. Due to their hunting background, they need a secure, fenced area to roam freely.

Health

The American Foxhound is generally healthy, but can be susceptible to:

Hip dysplasia
Ear infections
Obesity (due to insufficient exercise)

American Foxhound Life Expectancy

With proper care and nutrition, they can reach an age of 10-12 years.

Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in high-quality protein is important for their energy levels. An adult American Foxhound needs an average of 400-600 grams of dog food per day, depending on its weight and activity level. Always provide fresh water.

Training and Socialization

The American Foxhound is intelligent but can be stubborn. Early socialization and positive reinforcement are essential. They need a patient and experienced owner who can set clear boundaries and channel their natural hunting instincts.

Suitability for Owners

This breed is ideal for active owners or families who spend a lot of time outdoors. They are less suitable for city dwellers or people with a sedentary lifestyle. A house with a large, fenced garden is essential to give them sufficient freedom of movement.

Share Your Dog!

The American Foxhound is not widely available in the Netherlands. Do you have a dog, of any breed? Share a photo of your loyal four-legged friend with us via klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase! Would you like to participate in a video for FidelloTV? Make an appointment via klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive €20 shop credit. We would love to hear more about your experiences and would be thrilled to visit and learn more about your dog for our YouTube page!