The American Foxhound is a genuine hunting dog with a lively temperament and strong will, which is often underestimated despite its sweet appearance. Owners of these animals should inform themselves thoroughly and be aware of the characteristics of the breed. Here you can get a little insight.
Content: American Foxhound
- profile
- Special features
- Nutrition
- Health and care
- Origin & History
- The right accessories
- Conclusion
American Foxhound Profile
- Character: Strong character, friendly, headstrong
- Size: Large
- Height: Approx. 53-64 cm
- Weight: 30-35 kg
- Life expectancy: 11-13 years
- Coat type: Short and dense
- Colors: Black, white, brown, reddish spotted in tricolor or bicolor; all colors allowed
- Special features: Oldest dog breed in the USA
- FCI Group: Hounds, Scenthounds and Related Breeds; Large Hounds
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American Foxhound - Special Characteristics
The American Foxhound is a medium-sized dog with short to medium-length fur and floppy ears. Its brown eyes give the sweet dog a gentle "dog look" and can melt many a heart. However, you shouldn't underestimate these dogs: the American Foxhound is a real beast! The little ones have a strong hunting instinct and absolutely want to be kept busy. Only then does their balanced and loving character come to the fore. The animals prefer to hunt in a pack. It is therefore advisable to keep more than one of the animals.
Since the animals were primarily used to hunt foxes, the descendants of the English Foxhounds have outstanding stamina. This is important to know, as the dogs need plenty of exercise and movement. The American Foxhound has a very deep and loud bark that can be heard and recognized from a great distance. This is another reason why the dogs are not really suitable for the city. Small animals are only food for these dogs. This makes socializing the dogs with smaller pets almost impossible and often ends in a "Darwinian tragedy."
In summary, an American Foxhound belongs in experienced hands and should ideally have the opportunity to take part in hunts or to participate in extensive dog sports. The animals are not recommended as family or companion dogs. Even when used as a hunting dog, professional hunting dog training is highly recommended.
American Foxhound - What should be considered regarding nutrition?
The American Foxhound is a very greedy friend of man. You should not be tempted to give the four-legged friend more food than is necessary. The Foxhound can always eat one more meal than it should and therefore has a tendency to be overweight . This damages its skeleton and joints. As with all dogs, overfeeding should be strictly avoided! Otherwise, the little one is very undemanding. You can keep it satisfied with dry food as well as wet or mixed food. A high meat content from high-quality sources is good for the American Foxhound. You should avoid giving the animals a diet that is heavy on grains. BARF is also a suitable way of feeding the animals. The dogs are fed exclusively raw meat and vegetables to imitate the animals' original diet.
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American Foxhound - Health and Care
If you are seriously considering buying an American Foxhound, here is some good news: these dogs are very easy to care for. The short coat is undemanding and can be kept in a well-groomed condition with occasional brushing. If necessary, you can use a mild dog shampoo to remove stubborn dirt from the coat. The ears should be given special attention. The large, floppy ears are prone to inflammation and should therefore be checked regularly.
Particularly important: American Foxhounds are prone to hip dysplasia and should therefore be examined by a veterinarian during their first year of life. If in doubt, the hip position must be corrected surgically.
Make sure your little friend is at a weight appropriate for his size. If necessary, you can use a low-calorie diet. It is also important to get your little one used to only eating at his feeding times from the start.
American Foxhound - The right accessories
The most important thing for a Foxhound is a good leash. It should be long enough and comfortable to hold. Because of their strong hunting instinct, they have to be put on a leash more often than some other dogs. You can use either a harness for small dogs or a collar. Both are easy to get at any accessory store.
You can also keep the little one entertained with toys. He likes to play with balls or a Frisbee. The little dog also has a lot of fun following scents.
American Foxhound - Origin & History
Like the Beagle, the American Foxhound is very likely descended from the English Hound. In the middle of the 17th century, these animals came to Maryland on the North American continent with the Briton Robert Brooke. The breed was bred in the USA for a long time. The famous George Washington, the first President of the USA, is also said to have been involved in the breeding of American Foxhounds. Over the decades, various dogs were bred, including French and Irish hunting dogs. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club as early as 1886. Numerous varieties of American Foxhounds have now emerged, which are often found as show dogs, but are also used to hunt coyotes.
Conclusion
The American Foxhound, the oldest dog breed in the USA, impresses with its friendly character and robust nature. Its hunting skills and unconditional loyalty make it an exceptional companion for experienced owners. A balanced diet and regular care are crucial for its health. With suitable accessories such as a leash and toys, its need for exercise and activity can be met. The history of this breed, shaped by hunting traditions and prominent breeders such as George Washington, shows its deep roots in American culture.
Dog chews available for happy and contented four-legged friends!
