Blog Detail

Behavior

The most widely known characteristics of the American Foxhound are their friendly and outgoing personality. They are social dogs that enjoy the company of people and other animals, including other dogs. They are typically not aggressive and make poor guard dogs due to their friendly nature. The American Foxhound is also known for their high energy level and love of outdoor activities. They were originally bred as hunting dogs and have a strong instinct to chase and track prey. As a result, they require plenty of exercise and stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

While they are typically friendly with strangers, they can be reserved or aloof with new people or situations. Early socialization and training can help ensure they are well-adjusted and confident in a variety of environments. As a hunting breed, the American Foxhound has a strong prey drive and may be prone to chasing and baying at small animals such as squirrels and rabbits. They may also have a tendency to wander off if not properly trained or contained.

History

The American Foxhound is a breed of dog that was developed in the United States specifically for the purpose of hunting foxes. The breed is believed to have descended from English Foxhounds that were brought over by settlers in the 17th and 18th centuries. The American Foxhound was recognized as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1886. The breed has been used for hunting since its inception and is still a popular choice for hunting enthusiasts today.

During the colonial era, the breed was primarily used by wealthy landowners for fox hunting, but over time the breed became more popular with the general population. The American Foxhound was also used during the Revolutionary War as a messenger dog and for other tasks. In the early 19th century, the breed was crossbred with other types of hounds, including the Greyhound and the Bloodhound, to improve its hunting abilities. The breed became even more popular in the mid-19th century when the sport of fox hunting became more organized and widespread.

Today, similar to the history of the American Foxhound breed, they are still primarily used for hunting, but it is also a popular companion dog for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. The breed is known for its friendly and outgoing temperament, as well as its stamina and endurance. In summary, the American Foxhound has a rich history in the United States and has played an important role in the development of the country. Despite changes in society and the decline in popularity of fox hunting, the breed has remained a beloved and respected member of the dog community.

Looks & Health

The American Foxhound is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that is known for its athletic and muscular build. They have a lean and agile appearance, with a deep chest, long legs, and a long tail. They have a short and dense coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, white, tan, and brown. Their coat is easy to maintain and requires only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. The American Foxhound has a distinctive head shape with a long, narrow muzzle and long, droopy ears that hang down to their chest. Their eyes are large and expressive, with a gentle and friendly expression.

When it comes to feeding an American Foxhound, it is recommended to provide them with high-quality dog food that is rich in protein and essential nutrients. Feeding them a diet that is high in fat or carbohydrates can lead to weight gain, which can contribute to health problems such as joint issues and diabetes.

The American Foxhound is a relatively healthy breed of dog that has a life expectancy of around 11-13 years. As with all dogs, it is important to provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their overall health and well-being. In terms of health issues, American Foxhounds may be prone to hip dysplasia, which is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to joint problems and pain. They may also be susceptible to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears, so regular ear cleaning and inspection is important.

Exercise

A daily walk or run of at least 30-45 minutes is recommended to keep your American Foxhound healthy and happy. They also enjoy playing games such as fetch or tug-of-war, which can help them release excess energy. They are intelligent dogs that require mental challenges to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Activities such as puzzle toys or scent work can help engage their minds and provide mental stimulation.

The American Foxhound is also well-suited to activities such as hiking or jogging with their owners. They have a high endurance and can handle long distances, making them a great companion for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Training

The American Foxhound has a strong hunting instinct, so it is important to start their training at a young age to establish good habits and behaviors. When training an American Foxhound, punishment and harsh training methods should be avoided as they can lead to fear and anxiety. One important aspect of training an American Foxhound is socialization. It is important to expose them to a variety of people, animals, and environments to help them become well-adjusted and confident dogs.

Training should also focus on basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. These commands will not only make daily life with your dog easier, but they can also be important for safety when out on walks or in public places. As a hunting breed, the American Foxhound may also benefit from specialized training for hunting tasks, such as tracking or scent work. However, it is important to ensure that any hunting training is done in a safe and controlled environment.

Food & Nutrition

A diet that is high in protein and essential nutrients is the best food for American Foxhounds. They are important for growth and development of this breed, as well as for maintaining their muscle mass and overall health. Select a high-quality, commercial dog food that is specifically formulated for their breed and age. Look for a food that lists real meat as the first ingredient and does not contain fillers or artificial preservatives.

In addition to their regular diet, it is important to provide your American Foxhound with plenty of fresh water at all times. Dehydration can lead to a variety of health problems, so it is important to monitor your dog's water intake and provide clean, fresh water at all times.

Conclusion

The American Foxhound is a loyal and affectionate breed that thrives on companionship and outdoor activities. They require plenty of exercise and stimulation to keep them happy and healthy, and benefit from early socialization and training to ensure they are well-behaved in a variety of situations. Overall, providing your American Foxhound with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and proper veterinary care can help ensure a long and healthy life for your furry friend. To select mid day walking for American Foxhound and our other services, or to avail more information, visit Pawnanny.com .