American Foxhound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The American Foxhound is a lean, long-legged scent hound with a gentle disposition and a musical voice. It was developed in the American colonies for fox hunting, and it is associated with early American figures such as George Washington.

Origins and appearance

Foxhounds were brought to Maryland and Virginia in the seventeenth century and bred for hunting by riders following a pack. American Foxhounds are medium-large and athletic, with a long head, drop ears, a medium-short, hard coat in any hound color and a long tail. They are taller and lighter than their English cousins.

Temperament

They are gentle, sociable and easygoing. They are usually good with children and other dogs. They are independent and may be reserved with strangers. They can be vocal. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, with running, hiking and sniffing. Secure fencing is essential, since they follow scents. Mental work matters.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods, patience and food rewards. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Early socialization helps. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing. Clean the ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Hereditary blood disorders, including a thrombocytopathy
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Obesity. See obesity risks in dogs

Living with an American Foxhound

They suit active families with a secure yard. They do best with company and another dog. They are poorly suited to apartments or long hours alone.

A typical day

A Foxhound wants a long morning outing, a long nap, family time and an evening sniffing walk. Many are calm indoors once exercised.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and curious. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, vet care and secure fencing. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate moderate weather well, but need shade and water in heat and a coat in the cold. They travel well with a sturdy crate or harness.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting the dog off lead, underexercising, leaving the dog alone and neglecting the ears.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, hereditary conditions and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live. The breed is uncommon as a pet.

Pack hounds

American Foxhounds were bred to hunt in packs and are often happiest with canine company. A pet Foxhound may enjoy a second dog, and many are calm and tolerant in groups.

A historic breed

Foxhounds have been kept in the United States since colonial times, and the breed is the state dog of Virginia. Many pet owners come to the breed through rescue and adoption.

Daily care checklist

• A long outing with room to run in a secure area.
• Scent games or tracking.
• Ear checks and brushing.
• Measured meals.
• Company and a soft bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

An American Foxhound suits easygoing, active owners who want a gentle scent hound and can provide exercise and secure fencing. It may not suit apartments or those wanting an off-lead dog. For another hound, see the English Foxhound.

The takeaway

American Foxhounds are gentle, vocal and energetic, and they need exercise, secure fencing and company.