American Foxhound — breed guide
George Washington kept and bred them — he is on the breed's founding paperwork. Still bred for the pack, and still miserable alone.
At a glance
- Group
- hound
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 29–32 kg (64–71 lb)
- Life span
- 11–13 years
- Coat
- Short, hard, close coat
Living with a American Foxhound
- Very high energy — built for work and long days out.
- Almost no grooming.
- Moderate shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Very vocal.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Handles warm weather well.
- Average cold tolerance.
Temperament
Easygoing · Independent · Pack-happy · Bugling
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Thrombocytopathy
- Ear infections
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a American Foxhound good with kids?
Generally yes. American Foxhounds are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a American Foxhound good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a American Foxhound need?
Hours — this breed needs a job or a long day out.
Can a American Foxhound handle hot weather?
It copes well with warm days.
Leash Life keeps a American Foxhound's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.