American Hound
Breed Description

The American Foxhound is known by several names that reflect its heritage and purpose. The breed is most commonly called the American Foxhound, which distinguishes it from its English ancestor. Regional variations include the American Hound, a shortened version frequently used by hunting enthusiasts and those familiar with the breed's working roots. In some hunting circles, particularly in the Southern United States where the breed has deep historical ties, it may simply be referred to as the Foxhound when the American origin is understood from context.

Historical names for the breed include the Virginia Hound, acknowledging the state where much of the breed's early development occurred under the guidance of colonial breeders including George Washington. Some historical records also reference these dogs as Colonial Hounds or Patriot Hounds, though these terms are rarely used in modern times. The breed is occasionally called the American Scent Hound to emphasize its exceptional nose and tracking abilities that distinguish it from sight hounds.

The name "American Foxhound" itself carries significant meaning. "American" denotes the breed's development in the United States and its distinction from the English Foxhound. "Foxhound" describes the breed's original and primary purpose: hunting foxes in packs across varied American terrain. Major kennel clubs worldwide recognize this breed under its official designation, the American Foxhound, maintaining consistency in registration and breed standards across international boundaries.

The American Foxhound enjoys recognition from major kennel clubs around the world, each maintaining breed standards that preserve its distinctive characteristics. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes the breed as "American Foxhound" and places it in the Hound Group, where it has been registered since the club's founding in 1886. In fact, the American Foxhound holds the distinction of being one of the first breeds registered by the AKC, reflecting its historical significance in American dog breeding.

The United Kennel Club (UKC) also recognizes the breed as "American Foxhound" and classifies it within their Scenthound Group. The UKC standard emphasizes the breed's working ability and functional conformation. Internationally, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognizes the breed as "American Foxhound" and places it in Group 6 (Scenthounds and Related Breeds), Section 1.1 (Large-sized Hounds). The breed is classified under FCI standard number 303.

The Kennel Club (UK) recognizes the American Foxhound within their Hound Group, while the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) similarly registers the breed as "American Foxhound" in their Hound Group classification. These international registrations ensure consistent breed standards and allow American Foxhounds to compete in conformation shows worldwide.

The national breed club in the United States is the American Foxhound Club, which serves as the official AKC parent club for the breed. This organization maintains the breed standard, provides educational resources for owners and breeders, and promotes responsible breeding practices. The breed standard emphasizes a well-balanced hunting hound with exceptional endurance, a strong tracking nose, and a distinctive musical voice when on scent.

In conformation shows, American Foxhounds are judged on their adherence to the breed standard, which describes an athletic, leggy hound built for stamina rather than speed. The standard specifies a proportionate body slightly longer than tall, clean-cut head with a slightly domed skull, and straight, well-boned legs. Movement should be effortless and ground-covering with good reach and drive. The breed may also compete in various performance events including field trials, scent work, and tracking competitions where their natural hunting instincts shine.

The Master of Foxhounds Association of America oversees organized fox hunting in North America and maintains registries for hunting hounds including American Foxhounds actively used in the field. This organization focuses on preserving working ability rather than show conformation, though many American Foxhounds successfully bridge both worlds. Individual state and regional foxhound clubs also exist throughout the United States, particularly in Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and Tennessee, where organized fox hunting remains an active tradition.

The American Foxhound presents a picture of lean athletic strength combined with elegant proportion. This is a working hound built for endurance rather than speed, designed to cover miles of varied terrain while following a scent trail. The overall silhouette is slightly longer than tall, creating a rectangular outline that suggests stamina and efficient movement. Males typically stand 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder, while females measure 21 to 24 inches. Weight ranges from 60 to 70 pounds for males and 40 to 65 pounds for females, though individuals from working lines may fall outside these ranges while maintaining proper proportion.

The head is a distinguishing feature, appearing moderately long with a slightly domed skull of good length and breadth. The muzzle is straight and square, approximately equal in length to the skull, creating balanced proportions. Stop is moderately defined rather than abrupt. Eyes are large, set well apart, with a gentle, pleading hound expression that is soft and appealing. Eye color is typically brown or hazel. Ears are set moderately low and long, reaching nearly to the tip of the nose when drawn forward, lying close to the head with a slight forward fold.

The neck is rising freely from the shoulders, strong in substance yet clean and free from excessive throatiness. It should be of good length to allow the head to reach the ground easily when trailing. The topline is level and strong, with a back of moderate length. The chest is deep for lung capacity, with well-sprung ribs that provide adequate heart and lung space without being barrel-shaped. The loin is broad and slightly arched, and the croup slopes very slightly to the tail set.

Forequarters show straight, perpendicular front legs with good bone substance that is neither coarse nor fine. Pasterns are short and slightly sloping. Shoulders are clean and sloping with good length, allowing free movement. The hindquarters are strong and muscular, with well-bent stifles and relatively straight hocks. Hips and thighs are powerful, providing the drive necessary for sustained running. Feet are round and firm with well-arched toes and thick, tough pads suitable for rough terrain.

The tail, called the stern in hound terminology, is set moderately high, carried gaily but never curled over the back, with a slight brush. When the dog is in motion, the tail is held up with a slight curve. The coat is close, hard, and of medium length, providing protection from brush and weather without being long enough to collect burrs excessively. The coat texture is typical of working hounds, lying flat against the body.

American Foxhounds come in any color combination, and no color is preferred over another. Common patterns include tricolor (black, tan, and white), red and white, tan and white, and various combinations of these colors. Some individuals display ticking or mottling in the white areas. The variety of acceptable colors reflects the breed's development prioritizing function over appearance. Disqualifications are rare in this breed, with the standard focusing on functionality. Serious faults include any feature that interferes with working ability, such as weak pasterns, straight stifles, or a short, choppy gait.

Sexual dimorphism is evident, with males being noticeably larger and more substantial than females while maintaining the same proportions and type. Movement is the hallmark of a quality American Foxhound, with smooth, effortless strides covering ground with minimal effort. The gait should show good reach in front and strong drive from behind, with the topline remaining level. At a trot, the legs should move straight forward without paddling or weaving.

The American Foxhound stands as one of the oldest American dog breeds, with roots reaching back to colonial times in the 1600s. The foundation of this breed began when English settlers brought their hunting hounds across the Atlantic, seeking to continue the traditional sport of fox hunting in the New World. These early imports were primarily English Foxhounds, valued for their stamina and scenting ability. However, the American terrain and hunting conditions proved quite different from the English countryside, necessitating modifications to create a hound better suited to the challenging American landscape.

One of the most influential early breeders was Robert Brooke, who brought a pack of hunting hounds from England to Maryland in 1650. The Brooke family maintained this line of hounds for nearly 300 years, and these dogs became foundational to many American Foxhound bloodlines. The varied American geography, from dense forests to rocky mountains and open plains, required a hound with greater speed, lighter build, and more stamina than the heavier English Foxhound. Breeders began selectively developing these traits while maintaining the excellent nose and voice characteristics essential for pack hunting.

George Washington, beyond his role as the first President, was an avid fox hunting enthusiast and influential breeder of American Foxhounds. Washington maintained detailed breeding records at Mount Vernon and is credited with significantly shaping the breed. In 1785, Washington received French hounds as a gift from the Marquis de Lafayette, which he crossed with his existing stock. These French hounds contributed greater speed and a lighter, leggier build to the developing American type. Washington's breeding program focused on producing hounds with endurance, speed, and excellent scenting ability, traits that remain hallmarks of the breed today.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, various strains of American Foxhound developed across different regions, each adapted to local terrain and hunting conditions. Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and Tennessee became strongholds of American Foxhound breeding. The breed's development was influenced by occasional crosses with other hound breeds, including Irish hounds and additional French hounds, further refining the American type. By the mid-1800s, the American Foxhound had become distinctly different from its English ancestor, recognized as a separate breed with its own characteristics.

The American Kennel Club granted recognition to the American Foxhound in 1886, making it one of the first breeds registered by the organization. Despite this early recognition, the breed has remained primarily a working and field dog rather than a show ring competitor. The breed's population has always been concentrated among fox hunting enthusiasts and those who appreciate its working abilities. Different strains continue to exist within the breed, with some lines bred specifically for field trials, others for organized fox hunts, and some for companionship, though all maintain the core characteristics of the breed standard.

The 20th century brought changes to fox hunting in America as urbanization reduced available hunting territory and changing attitudes affected the sport's popularity. However, the American Foxhound adapted, with many finding new roles in coyote hunting, field trials, and as family companions for active households. The breed has never achieved widespread popularity as a pet, which has protected it from many of the health and temperament problems associated with popular breeds. Today, the American Foxhound remains relatively rare outside of hunting circles, but maintains a dedicated following among those who appreciate its heritage, athletic ability, and gentle nature. The breed represents a living piece of American history, embodying centuries of careful breeding for function over fashion.

The American Foxhound possesses a temperament shaped by centuries of breeding for pack work and hunting cooperation. At heart, this is a gentle, friendly dog with an easygoing nature and even disposition. Unlike breeds developed for guarding or protection, the American Foxhound shows little aggression toward people or other dogs, making them generally trustworthy and amiable companions. Their pack heritage means they typically get along exceptionally well with other dogs and actually prefer canine companionship to being alone. This social nature extends to humans, and they form strong bonds with their families while remaining polite and friendly with strangers.

Intelligence in the American Foxhound manifests primarily in their hunting skills rather than obedience or trick learning. These dogs possess remarkable problem-solving abilities when following a scent trail, demonstrating focus and determination that can seem almost supernatural. However, this intelligence comes with a strong independent streak typical of scenthounds bred to work at a distance from their handlers. An American Foxhound on a scent trail will make decisions about tracking strategy with minimal input from humans, which served them well in their traditional hunting role but can frustrate owners expecting quick obedience in everyday situations.

Energy levels in this breed are substantial and often underestimated by potential owners. The American Foxhound was developed to run for miles following a fox trail, and this stamina remains deeply ingrained. A leisurely walk around the block will not satisfy this breed's exercise requirements. Without adequate physical activity and mental stimulation, American Foxhounds can become restless, destructive, or develop problem behaviors including excessive barking and escape attempts. They are happiest when given a job to do or allowed to engage in activities that use their natural abilities.

The breed demonstrates a moderate level of sensitivity, neither overly soft nor completely stoic. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods rather than harsh corrections, though they can be somewhat stubborn when training conflicts with their desire to follow an interesting scent. American Foxhounds possess selective hearing, particularly when they catch an enticing smell, and can appear deaf to recall commands when engaged in tracking behavior. This trait requires patient, consistent training and secure containment, as their prey drive and tendency to wander when following scents can lead them far from home.

Vocalization is a notable characteristic of the breed, with American Foxhounds possessing a musical voice used to communicate when on a trail. This baying can be quite loud and melodious, serving the purpose of keeping the pack together and alerting hunters to the hound's location. While some individuals are quieter than others, most will bay when excited or when they detect an interesting scent. This trait can be problematic in suburban neighborhoods where close neighbors may not appreciate the breed's vocal nature. Owners should be prepared for this characteristic and understand it is deeply ingrained rather than a training failure.

The American Foxhound's personality includes a sweet, gentle side that emerges in the home environment. They enjoy lounging with family members when not actively exercising and can be affectionate without being clingy or demanding. This breed generally shows patience with children and tolerates the chaos of family life with good-natured acceptance. However, their high energy and size mean supervision is advisable with small children who might be accidentally knocked over during enthusiastic play. Overall, the American Foxhound's temperament suits active families who can provide the exercise, space, and companionship this working breed requires to thrive.

The American Foxhound thrives best in active households that can accommodate their substantial exercise requirements and pack-oriented nature. This breed is ideal for families who enjoy outdoor activities and have the time to provide several hours of daily exercise. The American Foxhound generally excels with children, displaying patience and gentleness while possessing enough energy to keep up with active kids. Their tolerant nature means they typically handle the unpredictability of family life with good-natured acceptance. However, their size and exuberance mean supervision is recommended with very young children who might be inadvertently knocked over during play.

Multi-dog households suit the American Foxhound particularly well due to their pack heritage. These dogs genuinely prefer having canine companions and often suffer from loneliness when kept as solitary pets. Households with another dog, especially another active breed, provide the social interaction and play opportunities that keep an American Foxhound mentally and physically satisfied. Their excellent temperament with other dogs makes integration into multi-dog homes typically smooth and drama-free. However, smaller pets like cats, rabbits, or guinea pigs may trigger the breed's strong prey drive, making households with these animals potentially challenging unless the dog is raised with them from puppyhood and carefully managed.

Living space requirements for the American Foxhound lean heavily toward rural or suburban settings with access to secure outdoor areas. While the breed is calm indoors when properly exercised, apartment living presents significant challenges due to their size, exercise needs, and vocal nature. The ideal home includes a large, securely fenced yard where the dog can run and explore safely. Fencing must be tall and secure, as American Foxhounds are capable jumpers and determined escapers when they catch an interesting scent. Underground electronic fencing is generally inadequate for this breed, as the drive to follow a scent trail often overrides any deterrent.

The American Foxhound adapts moderately well to different climates due to their working heritage. Their short coat provides some protection from cold and wet conditions, allowing them to work in various weather, though they should not be expected to live outdoors year-round. In very cold climates, they may require a coat for extended outdoor time, and they should always have access to warm shelter. Hot weather tolerance is generally good, though like all dogs, they need shade, water, and limited exercise during peak heat hours. The breed's short coat means they're not suited to living outdoors permanently in any climate; they need to be part of the family with regular indoor access.

Alone time tolerance in the American Foxhound varies by individual but generally tends toward poor, especially in dogs kept as solitary pets. These pack-oriented hounds were never intended to spend long hours alone, and isolation can lead to destructive behavior, excessive barking, escape attempts, or depression. The breed does best in homes where someone is present for significant portions of the day or where they have another dog for companionship. Owners who work long hours should carefully consider whether they can meet this breed's social needs or should instead look at more independent breeds.

Daily routine considerations for the American Foxhound center around substantial exercise requirements. This breed needs a minimum of one to two hours of vigorous daily exercise, not just a walk around the block. Ideal activities include long hikes, running alongside a bicycle, or participating in organized activities like field trials or scent work. Without adequate exercise, the breed becomes restless and may develop problem behaviors. Mental stimulation through scent work, puzzle toys, or training sessions helps tire the active American Foxhound mind. Potential owners must honestly assess whether their lifestyle can accommodate these significant daily exercise and mental stimulation requirements before choosing this breed.

Training an American Foxhound requires patience, consistency, and an understanding that this breed was developed to make independent decisions while hunting rather than to follow commands blindly. Their trainability falls into the moderate range, with intelligence that manifests more in scenting and tracking tasks than in obedience work. The breed learns quickly but may choose to ignore commands, particularly when an interesting scent captures their attention. This selective hearing frustrates many owners who expect immediate compliance. Successful training relies heavily on positive reinforcement methods, using treats, praise, and making training sessions engaging rather than repetitive. Harsh corrections typically backfire with this sensitive breed, leading to avoidance rather than cooperation.

Early socialization stands as critically important for American Foxhound puppies, though the process differs somewhat from other breeds. While aggression toward people or dogs is rare, exposing puppies to various environments, sounds, surfaces, and experiences helps them develop confidence and adaptability. Particular attention should be paid to controlled exposure to small animals if the household includes cats or other pets, as the hunting instinct emerges early. Puppy training classes provide excellent socialization opportunities while establishing basic obedience skills in a structured environment. The American Foxhound's natural friendliness toward other dogs makes group classes particularly beneficial.

Recall training deserves special emphasis with American Foxhounds due to their tendency to follow scents regardless of commands. Even the best-trained individuals may struggle with reliable recall when they catch an enticing smell, making off-leash freedom risky except in securely enclosed areas. Training recall requires starting in low-distraction environments and gradually increasing difficulty while using extremely high-value rewards. However, owners should maintain realistic expectations and always use secure fencing or leashes in unfenced areas regardless of training progress. The instinct to follow scents runs too deep to trust completely, even in well-trained dogs.

Exercise requirements for the American Foxhound are substantial and non-negotiable for this breed's wellbeing. A minimum of one to two hours of vigorous daily exercise is necessary to maintain physical health and mental stability. Walking on a leash, while necessary for urban environments, barely touches this breed's exercise needs. Ideal activities include long hikes where the dog can explore and follow scents safely, running alongside a bicycle on quiet roads, or participation in dog sports that utilize their natural abilities. Field trials specifically designed for hounds allow the breed to engage in tracking work that fully exercises both body and mind.

Mental enrichment activities complement physical exercise in keeping an American Foxhound satisfied and well-behaved. Scent work and tracking games tap into the breed's natural abilities and provide mental challenge that tires them as effectively as physical activity. Puzzle toys that dispense treats, hide-and-seek games, and varied walking routes that allow sniffing and exploration all contribute to mental stimulation. Many American Foxhounds excel in organized scent work or tracking competitions where their exceptional noses and problem-solving abilities shine. Providing the breed with outlets for their natural instincts reduces frustration and decreases unwanted behaviors stemming from boredom.

Off-leash reliability remains challenging for American Foxhounds throughout their lives due to their powerful tracking instinct. Even well-trained individuals may bolt after wildlife or interesting scents, making secure containment essential. Owners should seek out enclosed dog parks, securely fenced fields, or areas specifically designed for off-leash activity rather than risking their dog's safety by allowing freedom in unenclosed spaces. For dogs with access to large fenced yards, hiding treats or toys around the space provides hunting-like activities that satisfy instincts safely. Understanding and accepting the breed's limitations regarding off-leash reliability prevents dangerous situations and protects the dog from potential hazards.

The American Foxhound benefits from centuries of breeding for function rather than appearance, resulting in a generally healthy breed with fewer inherited health problems than many purebred dogs. Their working heritage and relatively small breeding population focused on performance has helped maintain genetic diversity and robust health. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention, American Foxhounds typically enjoy a lifespan of 11 to 13 years, with some individuals reaching 14 years or more. The breed's athletic build, active lifestyle requirements, and hardy constitution contribute to their overall good health when their substantial exercise needs are met.

Establishing a relationship with a veterinarian familiar with active, sporting breeds benefits American Foxhound health throughout life. The breed's genetic testing options continue expanding, with responsible breeders utilizing available tests to improve breed health. Owners should discuss appropriate screening tests with their veterinarian, particularly before breeding. The American Foxhound's generally robust health represents a benefit of breeding for working ability rather than appearance, but they still require attentive care, appropriate nutrition, regular exercise, and preventive veterinary attention to achieve their full lifespan potential and maintain quality of life throughout their years.

The American Foxhound ranks among the lowest maintenance breeds in terms of grooming requirements, thanks to their short, close-lying coat developed for practical hunting work. Weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush or rubber curry comb removes loose hair, distributes natural skin oils, and keeps the coat healthy and shiny. During spring and fall shedding seasons, more frequent brushing helps control the increased hair loss, though the breed sheds moderately year-round. The grooming session also provides an opportunity to check for ticks, cuts, or skin irritations that active outdoor dogs may acquire during their adventures.

Bathing requirements for American Foxhounds are minimal, typically needed only when the dog becomes genuinely dirty or develops an odor. Over-bathing strips natural oils from the coat and can lead to dry, irritated skin. Most American Foxhounds only need bathing every two to three months unless they roll in something unpleasant or develop a particularly strong hound odor after extensive outdoor activity. When bathing is necessary, use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly to prevent residue that can irritate skin or attract dirt.

Nail trimming should occur every three to four weeks or as needed to keep nails at an appropriate length. Active dogs who run on hard surfaces may naturally wear their nails down somewhat, but most still require regular trimming. Overly long nails can affect gait, cause discomfort, and potentially lead to torn nails or joint problems. If you can hear nails clicking on hard floors, they're too long. Many dogs tolerate nail grinding better than clipping, and both methods work effectively when done correctly. Starting nail care early in puppyhood makes the process easier throughout the dog's life.

Ear cleaning deserves special attention in the American Foxhound due to their long, pendulous ears that restrict air circulation. Check ears weekly for signs of infection including redness, odor, or discharge. Clean ears with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution, gently wiping the visible portions with cotton balls. Never insert anything into the ear canal. Dogs who swim or hunt in wet conditions may require more frequent ear cleaning to prevent infections. Plucking or trimming excess hair from inside the ear leather may improve air circulation and reduce infection risk.

Dental care is essential for American Foxhound health but often overlooked by owners. Daily tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste represents the gold standard for dental care, though even several times weekly provides significant benefits. Starting dental care in puppyhood establishes good habits and tolerance for the process. Dental chews, specially designed toys, and professional cleanings supplement home dental care. Regular dental maintenance prevents periodontal disease, tooth loss, and potential systemic health problems stemming from oral bacteria.

The American Foxhound's minimal grooming needs make them an excellent choice for owners who want a dog without extensive coat maintenance. Professional grooming is rarely necessary except for nail trimming if owners are uncomfortable performing this task themselves. The breed's wash-and-wear coat, combined with their naturally clean habits, means they can go from muddy field work to household member with just a quick rinse. This practical grooming profile reflects the breed's working heritage and contributes to their appeal for active families who prefer spending time exercising their dog rather than grooming them.

If you're looking to adopt an American Foxhound, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful American Foxhounds waiting for their forever homes.