Members
01/Overview
The English Foxhound is an iconic breed, renowned for its role in the traditional British sport of foxhunting. With its muscular body, keen sense of smell, and unyielding endurance, this breed has played a pivotal role in country life for centuries. Beyond the hunt, however, this foxhound is also a devoted and friendly companion, boasting a storied lineage that dates back to the 16th century in England.
Highlights
02/History
The tale of the English Foxhound begin in the picturesque English countryside, with the breed's narrative in step with the nation's fox hunting tradition.
The breed's roots trace back to ancient hounds in England that were used for hunting as far back as the Roman era. By the later medieval period, selective breeding for hunting prowess was becoming more systematic. Influences from breeds such as the Staghound and Harrier laid the foundation for the modern English Foxhound.
Purposefully bred for the sport of fox hunting, a revered pastime among the aristocracy, the English Foxhound was developed with specific traits in mind. The hounds needed the stamina to cover vast distances in pursuit of foxes, and an acute sense of smell to track their quarry. Furthermore, the hounds' distinctive bark, tuneful and clear, allowed the hunters to keep tabs on the chase, even when the hounds were out of sight.
In recognition of their storied heritage and breed purity, several major canine organizations have given the English Foxhound their official stamp of approval. The American Kennel Club granted recognition in 1909, with both the Fédération Cynologique Internationale and The Royal Kennel Club in the UK doing likewise.
Although the fervor for fox hunting has diminished in recent years due to changing societal views and legislative measures, the breed’s legacy remains unblemished. While English Foxhound's presence in the countryside is less common today, they are still treasured for their affable nature, unwavering loyalty, and the vibrant history they represent.
03/Appearance
Mature English Foxhounds typically stand at 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
In terms of weight, adult English Foxhounds usually weigh between 60 and 75 pounds.
The English Foxhound has a body that exudes power and endurance. Its structure is slightly elongated, with the body length being just greater than its height. This proportion provides the dog with the balance and stability needed to hunt without tiring. The substance of this breed is neither coarse nor light; rather, the English Foxhound displays a well-rounded musculature, indicative of its innate strength and stamina.
Texture: The English Foxhound sports a coat that's short and dense, providing the hound with adequate protection against the rigors of a day's hunt. The coat is neither too coarse nor too fine, and it has a somewhat hard texture to shield the skin from brush and thorns during the chase.
Markings: Pie
Standard Colors
04/Consider
The decision to own an English Foxhound, like any dog, requires careful consideration. This breed, historically employed in the traditional sport of foxhunting, brings with it a unique set of characteristics, demands, and joys. From the hound’s physical needs to its temperament, understanding what it means to have an English Foxhound as a part of a family lifestyle will support a harmonious relationship for years to come.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
Generally speaking, the English Foxhound is a robust dog, benefitting from centuries of selective breeding to ensure these hounds are up to the physical demands of the hunt. This has led to a breed with a strong constitution and fewer inherited health problems than many other breeds. Lifespan: The average lifespan is between 10 to 13 years. Providing a balanced diet, regular vet check-ups, and adequate exercise can help to promote a longer, healthier life.
The English Foxhound, while bred for the chase, possesses a temperament that is as affectionate as it is determined. Understanding the many facets of this breed's personality will help potential owners to foster a fulfilling relationship with their four-legged Foxhound.
These Foxhounds have a moderate degree of sensitivity, thriving on doggy companionship and often reflecting the emotions of their human caretakers. Their training calls for a mix of firmness balanced with a gentle touch, ensuring the hounds understand their role within the family dynamic.
Despite the breed's sociable nature, these hounds can typically handle short periods of solitude. However, it is crucial to make sure they aren't left alone for extended durations, as this can usher in bouts of boredom and sometimes even lead to destructive behaviors.
In the company of other dogs, English Foxhounds typically flourish. Their lineage, rooted in pack hunting, has conditioned them to appreciate and thrive in the company of other canines, particularly if they've been familiarized with their packmates from a tender age.
For families with children, the good news is that these hounds are generally patient and interact well with younger members of the household. As always, fostering mutual respect between the children and the hounds will generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
The English Foxhound’s reactions to strangers can be varied. While certain hounds may lean towards being more reserved, others can be expected to greet unfamiliar faces with warmth and affection. This distinction underscores the importance of early socialization, helping each hound to develop the most gregarious temperament possible.
Exercise Expectations
Their exercise needs are pronounced. Being originally bred to chase foxes over long distances, these hounds are blessed with notable stamina and a persistent energy reserve. While some hounds can adjust to a sedate family life, a foxhound certainly thrives best when given ample opportunities to expend its energy, be it through daily walks, play sessions, or other physical activities. In terms of energy level, the English Foxhound is quite spirited. Individuals of this breed have a strong zest for life and are almost always ready for an adventure. Regular outings, preferably in open spaces where the hound can safely run, are ideal. One should not mistake the need for exercise as mere physical intensity. While foxhounds are energetic, they aren't necessarily aggressive in their play. They display a moderate level of playfulness, with some hounds enjoying games like fetch or tug-of-war and other interactive activities. It's essential to understand that regular exercise isn't just about maintaining the English Foxhound’s physical health. It also plays a crucial role in keeping undesirable behaviors at bay. A bored foxhound, especially one that's cooped up for extended periods, can become restless and resort to destructive habits simply out of boredom.
Integrating an English Foxhound into one's living situation requires careful understanding of the breed's inherent traits and adjusting the environment accordingly.
When it comes to apartment living, it's not the size of the home but the lifestyle that truly matters. While individual English Foxhounds may be able adapt to apartment life, members of this breed typically need a daily dose of exercise to remain content in such settings. Without adequate physical activity, foxhounds may become restless and potentially exhibit unwanted behaviors. Therefore, potential owners living in apartments or smaller homes must ensure they can provide ample outdoor time for their hounds each and every day.
Weather adaptability is another factor to consider. The foxhound’s dense coat offers a good deal of protection against colder climates. This breed fares reasonably well in colder weather, provided the hounds aren't exposed to extreme conditions for prolonged periods. During particularly chilly days, a dog coat or sweater can offer added warmth.
Conversely, in hot weather, English Foxhounds can be prone to overheating. It's essential to always offer access to shade, fresh water, and preferably, a cool indoor environment during peak summer days. Activities during hotter months should ideally be scheduled during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings and evenings.
05/Puppies
The arrival of a litter of English Foxhound puppies is cause for celebration. Those little bundles of joy, with their playful antics, can seem like they are nothing but fun. There are, however, responsibilities that come with nurturing one of these pups. That boundless energy and insatiable curiosity bring both challenges and fun to a household. So, understanding the developmental needs of a Foxhound puppy is paramount for its transition from puppyhood to adulthood and, more than likely, to life as a pack member.
English Foxhound puppies, like all puppies, require a mix of consistent training, socialization, and proper nutrition to ensure their optimal development. From the moment a puppy steps paw into its new home, it is vital to set boundaries and establish a routine, offering guidance with gentle yet firm instruction. This early stage in the pup's training sets the foundation for its behavior in the future.
Nutrition is another pivotal aspect of puppy care. Providing the pup with a balanced diet, formulated especially for puppies, will provide it with the right mix of protein, fats, and other essential nutrients. The right diet can support a puppy's rapid development. Regular veterinary check-ups during the formative months are crucial to monitor the hound's growth and address any potential health concerns in a timely manner.
Socialization plays a significant role in shaping the temperament of a any puppy. Introducing the Foxhound pup to various environments, people, and other animals helps it to develop confidence and reduces the chance of it becoming overly timid or aggressive as it matures. This breed, with its inherent hunting instincts, can benefit from controlled interactions with smaller animals from a young age to encourage the hound to behave appropriately in their company.
Lastly, while the English Foxhound puppy may be brimming with energy, it is essential to ensure that play and exercise sessions are not too strenuous. The youngster's joints and bones are still developing, so excessive physical strain can lead to complications later on in life.
06/Activities
The English Foxhound’s historical role as a pack hound, and its inherent stamina and agility, make it a natural contender for many doggy activities. Engaging these hounds in structured activities taps into their instinctual drive and provides a rewarding outlet for their energy. Some of the dog sports that are suitable for the breed include:
Engaging an English Foxhound in these activities and sports not only provides a physical outlet, it also strengthens the bond between the dog and its handler. Whether competing at a high level or just for fun, these activities encourage a hound’s holistic development, keeping it mentally sharp and physically fit.
Gallery
07/Standards
The English Foxhound is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal English Foxhound is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
09/Rescue
10/Facts
Musical Bark
One of the English Foxhound's defining traits is its musical bark. This unique sound was incredibly valuable during fox hunts, allowing hunters to track the progress of the hunt based solely on the melodious notes echoing from the hounds.
Genetic Heritage
Genetic studies have shown that the English Foxhound shares DNA with the Harrier and several old British hounds. This genetic lineage speaks to the breed's deep-rooted history in the rolling hills and fertile forests of the English countryside.
Longevity in the Show Ring
The English Foxhound has been a participant in Conformation Shows for over a century. The breed made its first official appearance at a dog show in the late 19th century.
Limited Popularity
Despite their many desirable traits, English Foxhounds are not as commonly found in households compared to most other breeds. Their energy level and specific needs make them more suitable for country living or homes with ample space.
Physical Stamina
An English Foxhound is built for endurance. Historically, they were bred to chase foxes for long distances without tiring, and this stamina still stands out in the breed today.
11/FAQ
No, English Foxhounds are not considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, some breeds produce fewer allergens than others. People with dog allergies may have sensitivities to canine dander, saliva, or urine, so it's always recommended to spend time with the breed before bringing one of these large hounds home.
Official Standard of the English Foxhound
Head: Should be of full size, but by no means heavy. Brow pronounced, but not high or sharp. There should be a good length and breadth, sufficient to give in a dog hound a girth in front of the ears of fully 16 inches. The nose should be long (4½ inches) and wide, with open nostrils. Ears set on low and lying close to the cheeks. Most English hounds are "rounded" which means that about 1½ inches is taken off the end of the ear. The teeth must meet squarely, either a pig-mouth (overshot) or undershot being a disqualification.
Neck: Must be long and clean, without the slightest throatiness, not less than 10 inches from cranium to shoulder. It should taper nicely from shoulders to head, and the upper outline should be slightly convex. The Shoulders should be long and well clothed with muscle, without being heavy, especially at the points. They must be well sloped, and the true arm between the front and the elbow must be long and muscular, but free from fat or lumber. Chest and Back Ribs - The chest should girth over 31 inches in a 24-inch hound, and the back ribs must be very deep.
Back and Loin: Must both be very muscular, running into each other without any contraction between them. The couples must be wide, even to raggedness, and the topline of the back should be absolutely level, the stern well set on and carried gaily but not in any case curved over the back like a squirrel's tail. The end should taper to a point and there should be a fringe of hair below. The hindquarters or propellers are required to be very strong, and as endurance is of even greater consequence than speed, straight stifles are preferred to those much bent as in a Greyhound. Elbows set quite straight, and neither turned in nor out are a sine qua non. They must be well let down by means of the long true arm above mentioned.
Legs and Feet: Every Master of Foxhounds insists on legs as straight as a post, and as strong; size of bone at the ankle being especially regarded as all important. The desire for straightness had a tendency to produce knuckling-over, which at one time was countenanced, but in recent years this defect has been eradicated by careful breeding and intelligent adjudication, and one sees very little of this trouble in the best modern Foxhounds. The bone cannot be too large, and the feet in all cases should be round and catlike, with well-developed knuckles and strong horn, which last is of the greatest importance.
Color and Coat: Not regarded as very important, so long as the former is a good "hound color," and the latter is short, dense, hard, and glossy. Hound colors are black, tan, and white, or any combination of these three, also the various "pies" compounded of white and the color of the hare and badger, or yellow, or tan. The symmetry of the Foxhound is of the greatest importance, and what is known as "quality" is highly regarded by all good judges.
Scale of Points Head 5 Neck 10 Shoulders 10 Chest and back ribs 10 Back and loin 15 Hindquarters 10 Elbows 5 Legs and feet 20 Color and coat 5 Stern 5 Symmetry 5 Total 100
Disqualification: Pig-mouth (overshot) or undershot.
Approved 1935
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Daniel Smyth shares insights from judging at the 2025 AKC National Championship, reflecting on preparation, quality, and a standout year.
Meet the Judges
Meet Richard Reynolds – 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club Breed Judge – English Foxhounds, Harriers, Bedlington Terriers 1. What does it mean to be invited to judge at the 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show, an unrivaled celebration of purebred dogs in America? Richard Reynolds: The honor of judging at Morris […]
The English Foxhound’s temperament reflects its origins as a pack hunter. Learn how these traits influence its role as pet and hunter.
Dog Sports
Discover the English Foxhound’s evolution, role, and essential conformation traits, shaped by tradition and honed for the hunt.
Dog Sports
Explore the unique English Foxhound – its history, conformation, and enduring legacy as both a hunting hound and show dog.
Meet the Breeders
Toni Koerber is the breeder behind Monocacy Bend Kennels. Read about the kennel’s beginnings, the sires, the dams, the puppies, and more!
The tail, also referred to as the “stern,” is set moderately high and follows the column of the spine at its base. It is carried gaily but not curled over the back. In terms of length, it reaches the hocks and possesses a slight curve, giving it an elegant appearance.
When the hound is in motion, especially during a chase, the tail's movement is lively, signaling enthusiasm and zeal. When at rest, the tail is relaxed but remains poised, showcasing the breed's ever-ready nature.
The tail's coat is short and dense, like that on the rest of the body, and is finished with a “flag” of longer hairs underneath. This offers protection from the elements and the rough terrain over which this noble hound hunts.
A Note About Color: The color of the short, dense coat of the English Foxhound is largely considered unimportant; however, any good “hound color” would include black, tan, and white, and various “pies,” which are an amalgam of white and the color of the hare or badger, or tan, or yellow.
Coat Type
Double
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Short
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
The dietary needs of the English Foxhound are integral to its well-being, both in maintaining optimal health and in supporting its spirited nature. The breed’s nutritional requirements can vary based on age, activity level, and overall health.
For a growing English Foxhound puppy, it's crucial to provide a balanced diet that supports rapid growth and development. This often means seeking out high-quality puppy formulations that offer a mix of protein, fats, and essential nutrients tailored to their developmental needs.
Transitioning to adulthood, their dietary needs evolve. An adult English Foxhound typically requires a nutritious and well-balanced diet to sustain its energy levels, particularly if the hound is involved in regular physical activity. This generally includes a diet rich in proteins, balanced fats, and all the necessary vitamins and minerals. The exact amount of food can vary, but as a guideline, most English Foxhounds fare well with two to three cups of premium-quality dog food split into two meals a day.
It's essential to monitor a hound’s weight and adjust food quantities accordingly. Overfeeding or providing too many treats can lead to obesity, which brings its own set of health complications. Conversely, underfeeding or providing a nutritionally deficient diet can lead to various health issues and a decrease in vitality.
Always ensure that fresh water is available, and when making any significant changes to a hound’s diet, do so gradually to prevent digestive upsets.
Lastly, consulting with a veterinarian can provide personalized feeding recommendations tailored to an individual dog's needs.
Training the English Foxhound requires a blend of patience, consistency, and understanding of the breed's inherent characteristics. With their strong hunting lineage, these hounds come equipped with a keen nose and an instinctual drive to follow scents, which can sometimes pose challenges in training, especially during their younger, more exuberant years.
These dogs, however, are intelligent and keen to please. When coupled with positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, they often respond well to commands and lessons. Early socialization is a cornerstone for them, ensuring that they develop a balanced temperament and are well-adjusted in various situations, whether around other animals or amidst strangers.
A trait that potential owners should be aware of is the breed’s vocal nature. While not incessantly barky, English Foxhounds do have a distinct and melodic bay which might be used when these hounds catch an interesting scent or when they wish to communicate. Teaching them a "quiet" command early on can help to manage this inclination.
The breed's natural predation drive is another factor to consider. It's not uncommon for foxhounds to show a keen interest in smaller animals due to their hunting background. Early training and controlled introductions can help in curbing any overly enthusiastic behaviors towards smaller pets.
In terms of wandering, given their scent-driven nature, English Foxhounds might sometimes be inclined to follow an intriguing smell. Hence, a securely fenced yard or a leash during walks is advisable to make sure they don't chase after every fascinating aroma.
Grooming Expectations
The foxhound’s coat is short and dense, protecting it from the elements when the hound is out on a hunting adventure. This type of coat is relatively easy to groom. A weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush should suffice in removing loose hairs and maintaining the natural shine of the coat. In terms of shedding, English Foxhounds are moderate shedders. Regular brushing helps in managing and reducing the amount of hair that might otherwise find its way onto furniture and clothing. Beyond this, it also serves as an excellent bonding activity and allows owners to check for any skin issues, ticks, or other potential concerns. Bathing doesn't need to be frequent, only necessary when the hound gets particularly dirty or starts to develop a doggy odor. Using a mild dog-specific shampoo can ensure that the natural oils on their skin aren't stripped away. Other grooming essentials include regular nail trimming, as overgrown nails can cause discomfort or even lead to problems with walking or running. Dental hygiene is crucial too. Brushing the foxhound’s teeth several times a week, or at least providing dental chews, helps in preventing tartar buildup and maintains good oral health. Ear checks should be a routine part of the grooming process, especially considering the English Foxhound’s hanging ears. Cleaning them as necessary and ensuring they are dry helps with preventing infections and allows any dirt and debris to be easily removed.
