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CaninpediaDog Breeds

English Foxhound

A hardy, sociable pack hound, the English Foxhound is built to run for hours. It suits very active owners in the countryside.

Photo of the English Foxhound dog breed
Photo: Thowra_uk (Flickr) — CC BY 2.0 (source)

History and origins

The English Foxhound was bred in England from the 17th century for mounted fox hunting in packs.

Hunts kept very old breeding records, making it a remarkably uniform breed.

Temperament

Gentle, sociable and used to living in a group, the Foxhound gets on very well with other dogs. It is friendly with people but independent.

Its nose and stamina make it hard to recall. It has a powerful voice.

Health

This is a robust breed with few inherited problems. Hip dysplasia can occur.

Regular veterinary follow-up is recommended.

This is general information. For any question about your dog's health, consult a veterinarian.

Feeding

Food suited to high activity levels works well.

Avoid excess weight if activity drops.

Exercise

It needs several hours of activity a day: long runs, hiking and tracking.

It is unsuited to a sedentary life.

It copes reasonably with moderate heat thanks to its short coat, but its stamina exposes it to heatstroke: in summer, activity only during the cool hours. It only suits country life with plenty of space, ideally with another dog.

Grooming

Its short coat needs weekly brushing.

Check its ears and feet after outings.

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