Dog Breeds - English Foxhound

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of warmth shown by a breed towards its family members or other close acquaintances can differ. Certain breeds may appear distant towards all but their owner, while other breeds happily indulge in treating everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The extent of a breed's tolerance and patience towards the behavior of children as well as their overall suitability for families is a significant factor to consider. It is always essential to closely supervise dogs when they are in the proximity of young children or children of any age who may have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall sociability of a dog breed towards other canines is a crucial aspect to consider. It is important to supervise dogs during their interactions and introductions with others, as this ensures their well-being. However, certain breeds have a natural inclination to form positive relationships with other dogs be it within the confines of their own home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that a particular breed is likely to shed is an important aspect to consider. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Moreover, such breeds are more likely to contribute to certain types of allergies and may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency at which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance is an important consideration. It is crucial to assess the time, patience and budget you have available for such grooming efforts. Additionally, it's important to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming as part of their routine care.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The propensity of a breed to drool is worth considering. For individuals who value cleanliness, breeds that tend to leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The degree of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers is an important aspect to consider. Certain breeds may display reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers, regardless of the situation. On the other hand, there are breeds that are generally more welcoming and happy to meet new humans whenever they encounter one.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play is an important aspect to consider even beyond the age of puppyhood. Certain breeds will continue to display a strong desire to engage in games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. On the other hand, some breeds are more content with relaxing on the couch with you for most of the time.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The inclination of a breed to alert you when strangers are nearby is another factor to consider. Some breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, such as the presence of a mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds are more prone to warming up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change is an important factor to consider. This encompasses how well they cope with changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather variations, alterations in the daily schedule, and other fluctuations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training a dog and their willingness to learn new things are significant considerations. Certain breeds are naturally inclined to make their owner proud and are eager participants in training sessions. Others, however, may have a preference for doing things on their own terms, anytime, anywhere, which can impact their trainability.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires is an important aspect to consider. High-energy breeds are typically ready for physical activities and eagerly seek their next adventure. They enjoy running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more inclined to be laid-back and content with relaxing and snoozing on the couch. Understanding a breed's energy level can help ensure that their exercise and mental stimulation needs are adequately met.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization, whether through barking or howling is an important factor to consider when choosing a breed. Some breeds have a tendency to bark at every passer-by or become alert at the sight of a bird outside the window, while others may reserve their barks for specific situations. It's also worth noting that even barkless breeds can still be vocal in other ways using different sounds to express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation required by a breed to stay happy and healthy is an important consideration. Purpose-bred dogs that have specific jobs often require regular mental exercise involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other cognitive qualities. Without adequate mental stimulation, these dogs may resort to creating their own activities, which may not align with what their owners would prefer. Providing appropriate mental stimulation and engagement is essential for the overall well-being of such breeds.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of warmth shown by a breed towards its family members or other close acquaintances can differ. Certain breeds may appear distant towards all but their owner, while other breeds happily indulge in treating everyone they know as their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The extent of a breed's tolerance and patience towards the behavior of children as well as their overall suitability for families is a significant factor to consider. It is always essential to closely supervise dogs when they are in the proximity of young children or children of any age who may have limited experience with dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The overall sociability of a dog breed towards other canines is a crucial aspect to consider. It is important to supervise dogs during their interactions and introductions with others, as this ensures their well-being. However, certain breeds have a natural inclination to form positive relationships with other dogs be it within the confines of their own home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair that a particular breed is likely to shed is an important aspect to consider. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Moreover, such breeds are more likely to contribute to certain types of allergies and may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The frequency at which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance is an important consideration. It is crucial to assess the time, patience and budget you have available for such grooming efforts. Additionally, it's important to note that all breeds require regular nail trimming as part of their routine care.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The propensity of a breed to drool is worth considering. For individuals who value cleanliness, breeds that tend to leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The degree of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers is an important aspect to consider. Certain breeds may display reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers, regardless of the situation. On the other hand, there are breeds that are generally more welcoming and happy to meet new humans whenever they encounter one.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play is an important aspect to consider even beyond the age of puppyhood. Certain breeds will continue to display a strong desire to engage in games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. On the other hand, some breeds are more content with relaxing on the couch with you for most of the time.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The inclination of a breed to alert you when strangers are nearby is another factor to consider. Some breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, such as the presence of a mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds are more prone to warming up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change is an important factor to consider. This encompasses how well they cope with changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather variations, alterations in the daily schedule, and other fluctuations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training a dog and their willingness to learn new things are significant considerations. Certain breeds are naturally inclined to make their owner proud and are eager participants in training sessions. Others, however, may have a preference for doing things on their own terms, anytime, anywhere, which can impact their trainability.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires is an important aspect to consider. High-energy breeds are typically ready for physical activities and eagerly seek their next adventure. They enjoy running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more inclined to be laid-back and content with relaxing and snoozing on the couch. Understanding a breed's energy level can help ensure that their exercise and mental stimulation needs are adequately met.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Frequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation required by a breed to stay happy and healthy is an important consideration. Purpose-bred dogs that have specific jobs often require regular mental exercise involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other cognitive qualities. Without adequate mental stimulation, these dogs may resort to creating their own activities, which may not align with what their owners would prefer. Providing appropriate mental stimulation and engagement is essential for the overall well-being of such breeds.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black White & Tan	034
Lemon & White	115
White	199

PATTERNS

About The Breed

The English foxhound is a robust and energetic hunting dog with impressive endurance. Boasting long and sturdy legs, as straight as a gatepost, this canine displays exceptional physical strength. Its back remains perfectly level while the chest is deep measuring up to 31 inches in circumference for a hound standing at 24 inches tall. This ensures ample lung capacity essential for enduring a demanding day of hunting. While these hounds are known for their sociable and gentle nature, they are rarely kept as house pets due to their pack-oriented behavior and strong instinctual drive for pursuing prey. Their primal instincts often override other factors such as training making them better suited for huntsmen who maintain packs of hounds or experienced individuals who can handle the challenges of living with these swift and powerful creatures inherently wired for the chase. The English foxhound exemplifies the ultimate goal of dedicated dog breeders, possessing the perfect blend of beauty, balance, and functionality. As someone once wrote, "Few combinations of grace and strength can rival that of a well-bred Foxhound, perhaps only surpassed by an ancient Greek statue."

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A ENGLISH FOXHOUND

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your English Foxhound: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	English Foxhounds generally enjoy good health but there are certain health considerations that owners should keep in mind. It's important to note that large and deep-chested breeds including the English foxhound are more susceptible to a condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus or bloat. This sudden and life-threatening stomach issue requires owners to be vigilant and learn to recognize the signs in order to take immediate action. Additionally, due to their low-hanging ears, Foxhounds may be prone to ear infections; therefore, it is advised to regularly check and clean their ears. Maintaining dental hygiene is essential and brushing their teeth often with a toothpaste formulated for dogs is recommended. Lastly, regular visits to the veterinarian for checkups and parasite control are crucial in ensuring a long and healthy life for your English foxhound. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: No recommended health tests

Grooming

	The coat of the English foxhound is characterized by its short, hard, dense, and glossy texture, which requires minimal maintenance. To keep the dog looking it’s finest and to remove dirt and loose hair, a gentle brush with a soft-bristle brush or a hound glove on a weekly basis is recommended. Additionally, giving the dog an occasional bath using a mild shampoo specifically designed for dogs can help prevent any undesirable odors. Regularly inspecting the ears is important and if necessary, they should be cleaned with soft gauze and an ear-cleaning solution. For guidance on selecting a suitable brand, the dog's breeder or veterinarian can provide recommendations. It's also essential to keep the nails appropriately trimmed to avoid discomfort and difficulties in the dog's mobility, unless they naturally wear down over time due to regular activities such as walking and running.

Exercise

	The English foxhound is a breed that possesses an easygoing nature; however, they do require ample daily exercise and outdoor stimulation. They are particularly well-suited for active families with a substantial amount of land. It is generally not recommended to have English Foxhounds in city dwellings or apartments, as the limited space may restrict their freedom. These dogs have a high level of energy, but when provided with appropriate exercise, they can exhibit a gentle, sociable and relaxed demeanor indoors. Given their breeding as running dogs, they can excel as companions for hiking and running activities. It is essential to prioritize daily long and brisk walks for this breed. Being scent hounds, they might be tempted to wander off in pursuit of fascinating scents, so it is crucial to keep them on a leash unless in a secure, enclosed area. English Foxhounds can also actively participate in various canine sports and activities, including obedience, tracking, agility, coursing ability tests, and rally.

Training

	Similar to other hound breeds, the English foxhound typically displays an independent nature and may exhibit stubborn tendencies. Effective training methods for this breed require consistency, patience, and an understanding of their scent hound temperament. They respond positively to a calm, affectionate, yet firm leadership approach and are capable of demonstrating obedience once the pack order is established. Given their nature as pack hounds, they greatly enjoy the company of other dogs and humans making them a good fit for families with other canines and children. Early socialization and enrolling them in puppy training classes are highly recommended as they contribute to the development of a well-adjusted and well-mannered companion in the English foxhound.

Nutrition

	To ensure proper nutrition, it is essential to feed the English foxhound a high-quality dog food that is suitable for their specific age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level. It is important to familiarize oneself with the human foods that are safe for dogs to consume and those that should be avoided. If you have any uncertainties or inquiries regarding your dog's weight or diet consulting with your veterinarian or the dog's breeder is highly recommended. Additionally, it is crucial to provide the English foxhound with clean and fresh water at all times to maintain their well-being.

Historiography

During the medieval era in England, the nobility engaged in stag hunting with their hounds in the vast forests that had reclaimed Britain following the Dark Ages following the fall of the Roman Empire. Fox hunting, on the other hand was predominantly considered a task for farmers and groundskeepers, as foxes were viewed as cunning thieves raiding henhouses.

However, as the middle Ages drew to a close, the population grew and the forests diminished leading to a decline in the deer population. The British upper class, desiring to uphold their cherished equestrian and hound-based traditions gradually replaced stag hunting with a new pursuit: fox hunting.

The earliest form of the traditional British foxhunt emerged in the 1600s. It involved packs of vocalizing hounds and mounted hunters traversing sprawling expanses of lawns and hedges. Masters of Hounds achieved this aristocratic pastime by crossbreeding sturdy stag-hunting hounds renowned for their exceptional sense of smell and endurance with lean Greyhound-like hounds, prized for their speed and agility. The outcome of this selective breeding was the English foxhound, a breed whose appearance and temperament have remarkably endured throughout the centuries.

By the 1700s, fox hunting had gained immense popularity among the English upper class. Even in colonial America, prominent figures such as George Washington and his wealthy Virginia neighbors sought to recreate a slice of their homeland by organizing English-style fox hunts on their plantations. Washington played a significant role in developing the American foxhound, a slimmer and taller breed achieved through crosses between English Foxhounds and French hounds imported from the kennels of the Marquis de Lafayette. It is highly probable that English foxhound ancestry also flows through the bloodlines of coonhound breeds developed by American pioneers on the frontier.