English Foxhound: Origins, Character, Health & Essential Tips

The English Foxhound is a noble and robust breed, stemming from a long hunting tradition in Great Britain. Its presence, speed, and great stamina make it a top choice for outdoor activity enthusiasts. This guide takes you through its origins, physique, behavior, health, and daily life to help animal lovers better understand and care for this magnificent dog.

Chien English Foxhound dans une prairie

1. The Origins of the English Foxhound

The English Foxhound finds its origins in England in the 17th century. Initially bred for fox hunting, this hunting dog was indispensable to the foxhunt courses practiced by the English nobility. 

Resulting from crossbreeding between powerful hunting dogs and fast greyhounds, it was developed to offer both endurance and speed, essential qualities on vast hunting grounds. Rigorous breeding and genealogy tracking, practiced for over two centuries, ensure the preservation of its typical characteristics today.

Used in packs, the English Foxhound is a social dog that forms harmonious groups, making collective hunting easy. Its recognition by international canine bodies (including the FCI) underscores the importance of its heritage and its value in the canine world.

2. The Physique of the English Foxhound

The English Foxhound presents an elegant and athletic appearance, with carefully balanced proportions.

  • Coat: short, dense, and weather-resistant.
  • Color: often tricolor (black, white, and tan), with the possibility of other shades.
  • Head: well-proportioned, with a flat skull and wide nostrils.
  • Ears: drooping and well-set, providing an authentic charm.
  • Eyes: medium-sized, generally hazel or brown, reflecting liveliness and gentleness.
  • Body: muscular and lean, ensuring power and agility.
  • Tail: carried proudly, non-curled, symbol of its energy. The size of the English Foxhound is classified as a large dog. Males measure approximately 56 to 63 cm at the withers, while females range between 53 and 61 cm. They weigh 30 to 34 kg for males and 25 to 34 kg for females, giving the breed an imposing yet harmonious appearance.
Fiche race sur le chien English FoxHound

3. The Behavior of the English Foxhound

The character of the English Foxhound reflects its origins as a hunting dog. Energetic and bursting with vitality, it is distinguished by great stamina and a developed prey drive. Naturally sociable, it gets along very well in packs, both with its peers and with family members. 

Its gentle and affectionate nature makes it a loyal and endearing companion, although sometimes it shows the independence typical of hunting dogs. Its strong tendency to explore and follow scent trails requires firm training from an early age, with a lot of patience and consistency.

It enjoys outdoor activities like running, long walks, or hiking, and loves challenges that stimulate its sharp mind. Therefore, the English Foxhound is perfectly suited to active owners, experienced and passionate about adventure.

4. The Health of the English Foxhound

Overall, the English Foxhound is a robust and healthy breed. However, like any large dog, it is prone to certain hereditary conditions. Among these, renal amyloidosis, hip dysplasia, and deafness should be monitored. Vigilance is key, and regular veterinary visits are necessary to prevent or quickly detect any anomalies.

Parasite control, vaccinations, and careful monitoring of its diet contribute to ensuring its longevity, which typically ranges from 10 to 13 years.

Spaying is often recommended to prevent certain health and behavioral problems, after consultation with the vet. Additionally, regular care of its coat and ears is recommended to prevent infections and discomfort. 

Good hygiene and a tailored diet, supplemented with dietary supplements if necessary, will allow the English Foxhound to maintain all its vitality.

5. The Daily Life of the English Foxhound

The daily life of an English Foxhound is marked by significant physical activity and well-deserved relaxation moments. This dog needs ample space to run and exercise; a large enclosed garden is ideal, and apartment living is not recommended unless regular long outings are planned. 

Its diet should be balanced, appropriate for its age, size, and activity level. Opt for high-quality dry food or wet food for dog, possibly supplemented with healthy dog treats and dietary supplements for dog to support its vitality.

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Indispensable accessories include a sturdy dog lead, a comfortable dog harness, and stimulating dog toys to keep it mentally engaged. Training and socialization are vital to develop its obedience and meet its pack need.

Lastly, daily walks, preferably in nature, will strengthen the bond with its owner and help channel its boundless energy.

Frequently Asked Questions about the English Foxhound

What are the exercise needs of the English Foxhound?

The English Foxhound requires daily exercise sessions of at least one to two hours. Long walks, runs, and hikes in natural settings are ideal for exploiting its great stamina and satisfying its hunting instinct.

What specific diseases should be monitored in the English Foxhound?

Amyloidosis of the kidneys, hip dysplasia, and deafness should be monitored. Regular veterinary consultations and proper dietary management help minimize these risks.

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