American Foxhound — Breed Profile
"Good-natured, friendly, pack-oriented, energetic, determined, sociable"
Born to chase
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Active families with yards, experienced dog owners, multi-dog households, rural settings, hunters, families with children
Not Ideal For
Apartment dwellers, first-time owners without yard space, sedentary lifestyles, homes with small caged animals, those needing low-barking dogs
Health Considerations
Hip dysplasia, ear infections, thrombocytopathy, generally healthy breed
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,000
Breed History
Developed in colonial America from English Foxhounds, closely associated with George Washington and early American estates in Virginia. Refined for hunting American foxes with selective breeding through the 18th and 19th centuries.
Fun Facts
- George Washington personally developed the breed and kept detailed records of his hounds
- American Foxhounds have been known to run in coordinated packs for hours
- Their baying howl is distinct and was used by colonists to track hunts from miles away
- They are closely related to the English Foxhound but developed unique American characteristics
Famous American Foxhounds
George Washington's personal hounds, Mount Vernon estate packs
American Foxhound products coming soon.
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