American Foxhound

American Foxhounds who are brought up with other pets such as cats, small dogs or guinea pigs can learn to get along with them just fine. Dogs that are adopted from pack situations may have more of an adjustment to make and should not be left unsupervised with smaller animals that look like prey.

The American foxhound is slighter of bone and higher on leg than the English foxhound, with more rear angulation and arch over the loin. These attributes give it greater speed and agility for hunting over rough terrain. It has a melodious voice when on the trail. Its coat is hard and of medium length. Its expression is gentle and pleading.

Although by tradition the foxhound is not a house pet, it is actually well-mannered in the home. It gets along best with human or canine companionship. It is a tolerant, amiable and gentle dog, even though it is not very demonstrative. Most are reserved with strangers. It is first and foremost a hunter, ever ready to hit the trail. It needs daily exercise in a safe area. Once on a scent, it will follow gleefully, heedless of commands. This is a dog that likes the outdoors; it is not a city dog. It bays.

The American Foxhound is directly descended from English hounds brought to America in 1650 and bred over a century later to a French hound sent as a gift by Lafayette to George Washington. Washington ran a breeding program and often mentioned the hounds in his journals. The two breeds, French and English, in combination have produced the American Foxhound. In the seventeenth century, these dogs were used for seeking out Indians. Later, however they became efficient and untiring hunters of wild animals. The American Foxhound has an excellent nose, and is very fast when giving chase. He has great stamina for running and a musical bay. The American Foxhound is still primarily a hunting and field trial dog in both packs and alone, though he has also had success as a companion dog for those owners who provide enough exercise and activities. Its talents are hunting, tracking, watchdog and agility. The American Foxhound is somewhat faster and a little leaner than the English Foxhound.