English Foxhound: A Powerful, Enduring Hunter with Gentle Temperament

Form and Function

The English Foxhound is of powerful build, with large bone. The size of bone at the ankle is considered especially important. This build, along with comparatively straight angulation of the stifles, favors stamina over speed.

 

Ready to see what dogs fit you best? Take our short quiz to find out!

Breed Traits

Energy Level

4 out of 5

Exercise Requirements

4 out of 5

Playfulness

3 out of 5

Affection Level

3 out of 5

Friendliness To Dogs

5 out of 5

Friendliness To Other Pets

3 out of 5

Friendliness To Strangers

4 out of 5

Watchfulness

1 out of 5

Ease of Training

2 out of 5

Grooming Requirements

1 out of 5

Heat Sensitivity

3 out of 5

Vocality

4 out of 5

Breed Attributes

Type

Hound

Weight

55-75 lb

Height

23-27"

Family

Scenthound

Area of Origin

Great Britain

Date of Origin

1700s

History

Careful pedigrees have been kept of English Foxhounds since the late 1700s—longer than for any other breed. Still, the exact origin of the breed is unknown. Around 1750, a few men envisioned hunting foxes with swift horses and hounds. The hounds would have to be able to track a faint scent while on the run and to maintain their chase for hours.

Foxhunting gained its appeal as a pastime of the wealthy, and packs of hounds were tended to by Masters of Foxhounds, who looked to the care and breeding of the dogs. As the aesthetic aspects of the hunt increased in significance, care was taken to produce dogs that looked good not only individually but also as a pack. Thus, pack members would usually share the same coat coloration, most often the black saddle over a tan body with white points.

Foxhunting became so popular that by the late 1800s, 140 packs (each with about 50 hounds) were registered in England alone. Foxhounds came to America in the 1700s, although in time a good percentage of these dogs were bred with other dogs to produce the American Foxhound.

Temperament

The English Foxhound makes a stately family member, and desires human or canine companionship. They usually get along well with horses, dogs, children, and other pets. They are avid sniffers and trailers, however, and need daily exercise in a safe area. This breed is tolerant, amiable, and gentle, even though they are not very demonstrative. Most are reserved with strangers. They may not be well suited for city life. They bay.

Upkeep

The Foxhound is an easygoing dog that nonetheless needs plenty of exercise. They can often run for miles, and they can make good jogging companions on leash or hiking companions in a safe area. The coat needs only occasional brushing.