English Foxhound

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 10-13 years
The English Foxhound is a generally healthy breed, although there are a few potential health problems.

Hip dysplasia, a degenerative joint condition, may affect some English Foxhounds. Hip dysplasia occurs when a malformed hip joint does not allow the thighbone to fit properly into place, potentially resulting in discomfort, pain, and limping. In the most severe cases, arthritis or even lameness can result, and surgery may be required. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not breed, so ensure your prospective puppy’s parents have no history of the condition. Although it is hereditary, hip dysplasia can be triggered by rapid weight gain or injury. While your puppy’s joints are still developing, do not allow him run on slippery surfaces or jump uncontrollably as this can lead to injury.

Another potential health issue is hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid does not produce sufficient amounts of hormone. Hypothyroidism can lead to issues such as hair loss, lethargy, infertility, and obesity. Dogs with this condition can be treated with daily medication, and they typically retain a good quality of life.

Renal disease, when the kidneys cannot flush certain toxins from the blood, may also affect some English Foxhounds. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, depression, lack of appetite, increased thirst, weight loss, blood in the urine, and lethargy. There is no cure for renal disease, but symptoms can be treated and progression can be slowed with a specialized diet and carefully maintained hydration. English Foxhounds can experience epilepsy as well, resulting in seizures.

The average English Foxhound lives 10-13 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

The English Foxhound is affectionate, gentle, and rather social. He is graceful and strong in appearance. It is important to note that he is a working dog who is not the best choice for someone who is merely seeking a companion. If you are an active owner who is committed to ensuring an active lifestyle for your canine companion, the English Foxhound may be the breed for you.

Bred to hunt foxes for miles, the English Foxhound is not suited for apartment living. Ideally, he needs a large yard and an active, outdoorsy owner. He has excellent stamina and can be a hiking, biking, and jogging companion. He loves hunting, but it is not an absolute necessity. If you are not able to take the English Foxhound hunting, ensure that he has plenty of opportunities to run freely. An hour of exercise daily is ideal, with thirty minutes being the absolute minimum.

The English Foxhound can live outdoors if he is provided with adequate shelter and has at least one companion dog, but he should live indoors with his family if he is a solo dog. He is a pack hound who needs companionship in order to be happy and well-adjusted. When outdoors, the English Foxhound must be either securely within a fence or kept on a leash, because he will gladly run off in pursuit of an interesting scent.

The English Foxhound generally gets along with children and other pets, although he may chase smaller animals due to his strong prey drive. He also will need to be supervised around younger children and toddlers, especially as a puppy, due to his exuberance. The English Foxhound will be friendly with most dogs. In some cases, this pack hound can actually become bored and destructive when he lives in a one-dog home. The English Foxhound has a loud bark and can make a good watchdog.

Since the English Foxhound is a pack hound, you must establish yourself as the leader of the pack in order to properly train him. Once you have done so, they are typically obedient and not difficult to train. Like all hounds, the English Foxhound can potentially be stubborn and independent, making firm and consistent training essential. Remain loving and calm, and use positive reinforcement such as extra playtime, treats, and verbal praise.

Grooming

The English Foxhound’s coat requires weekly brushing with a hound mitt or rough cloth to minimize loose hair. They are average shedders, and weekly brushing can help control this issue.

Bathe the English Foxhound as needed. Trim his toenails once a month to prevent overgrowth and cracking. Check his ears once a week for signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, and odor. Also ensure that there is no excess buildup of wax, dirt, or debris. Brush his teeth at a few times weekly to contribute to good overall health and prevent bad breath.

Diet

On average, the English Foxhound should consume 2.5-3 cups of high quality dry dog food daily. The ideal type and amount of food for your individual dog will depend on factors such as weight, metabolism, activity level, and age. Splitting his food into at least two smaller meals is recommended.

Clean, fresh drinking water should be readily available to your English Foxhound at all times.
 

Find An English Foxhound Breeder

English Foxhound Puppies For Sale

Adopt An English Foxhound

Cost

The English Foxhound is a somewhat rare breed, so be prepared to spend some time on a waiting list. However, he is still fairly inexpensive, with prices averaging around $600.

If you are able to adopt an English Foxhound, be prepared to spend up to $150 – $300 in adoption fees.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The English Foxhound ranks a 2.5. He is generally healthy, gets along with most people and pets, and has fairly low maintenance grooming requirements. However, he is a working dog who needs to be kept busy and active, and he should not live in an apartment. He needs to be securely fenced or kept on a leash because he will pursue interesting scents, and it is important to clearly establish yourself as his leader in order to properly train him.

 

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