American Foxhound

American Foxhound dog

Lean American pack hound bred for endurance and the long-distance pursuit of foxes.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Large 60 - 70 lbs 21 - 25 inches 11 - 13 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: United States



Own a American Foxhound? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a American Foxhound? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Want a dog that generally gets along well with other dogs.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.
  • This breed may be less suited to smaller living spaces.

The American Foxhound developed from European hunting hounds brought to the British colonies of North America. English foxhounds formed an important foundation, but American breeders gradually produced a lighter, faster dog suited to the vast countryside and different hunting conditions of the colonies and young United States. George Washington was an enthusiastic foxhound breeder and kept detailed records of his dogs at Mount Vernon. During the 1780s, the Marquis de Lafayette sent Washington French hounds, which Washington crossed with his existing pack and which contributed to American hound development. Other regional strains emerged over time as hunters selected for different voices, speeds, and styles of pursuit. Unlike dogs expected to catch quarry quickly, foxhounds were valued for their ability to follow scent for long periods while working cooperatively in a pack. The American Foxhound became one of the country's distinctive early breeds and was recognized by the American Kennel Club when the organization was still young. Virginia later designated it the state dog. Modern American Foxhounds remain relatively uncommon as ordinary pets compared with many breeds, but hunting packs continue the tradition. Their long legs, stamina, independence, and famously musical voices all reflect generations of pack hunting across large areas.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Foxhound

The American Foxhound is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The American Foxhound tends to shed relatively little, although coat care is still important.

The American Foxhound generally has relatively manageable grooming needs.

The American Foxhound is generally a high-energy breed that tends to enjoy an active routine.

The American Foxhound tends to need plenty of regular physical activity and mental stimulation.

The American Foxhound is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The American Foxhound generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The American Foxhound generally tends to get along well with other dogs when properly socialized.

The American Foxhound is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The American Foxhound may be less suited to apartment living and may benefit from more space.