March 5

English Foxhound




English Foxhounds are not commonly kept as pets. Very little is known about this breed. If you are thinking of bringing home an English Foxhound then read on as we attempt to throw light on this breed. 

The English Foxhound is a very active dog that was used to hunt in packs. they also do well with other dogs due to their heritage and temperament. 

They are not considered family pets because they're extremely social dogs (i.e. cannot live alone), and she also must be exercised extensively. 

They are actually part of a family of 4 different types of foxhounds, and is the cousin of the American Foxhound.

Origins of English Foxhound

The English Foxhound has a centuries-old history. It was originally bred in England to chase the red fox. The English Foxhound finds a mention in the studbooks printed by the British Masters of Foxhounds Association in the 18th Century. 

Lord Fairfax brought the English Foxhounds to America in 1738 and bred the American Foxhound.

Physical Attributes

The English Foxhound has a gleaming thick coat which has black, white and brown shades. They grow up to a height of 23 to 27 inches (0.69 m) in height. 

They weigh between 55 and 75 pounds (ca. 34 kg). Males are bigger than females.

English Foxhound vs Beagle


English Foxhounds have a headstrong personality. When chasing prey they may ignore their owner's commands.

 English Foxhounds get along well with other dogs and older children. 

They may accidentally knock down small children. They are prey driven and may attack smaller animals. It is best not to leave them unsupervised with smaller children and cats.

English Foxhounds are energetic and require daily exercise. They can be destructive when left alone. They bark loudly and can be good watchdogs.

A number of factors like hereditary, socialization and training may eventually affect their temperament. They don't trust strangers but don't attack them either. They have an easygoing nature.


You must start training your English Foxhound puppies as early as possible. Your English Foxhound puppy will require a consistent training schedule. The training must continue through all your puppies growing years. 

Obedience training will require you to be patient but it helps them develop into a companion dog. English Foxhound puppies must be compulsorily leash trained as they have a tendency to run after prey when outdoors.

Puppy socialization classes may help the puppies to get along with others. Early socialization ensures that your English Foxhound puppies grow up into well-adjusted dogs. 

Crate training is necessary for English Foxhound puppies to safeguard their health. Taking your English Foxhound for a run daily will keep your dog happy and cement the bond between both of you.

Care and Grooming

English Foxhounds require 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. Daily runs are essential for them to burn off their natural energy.

Brushing their coat once a week with rough cloth or hound mitt can remove any loose hair they shed. You should begin grooming your English Foxhound puppies early so that they get used to it.

A regular bath is not necessary. Whenever you bath them be careful to use a superior quality dog shampoo that retains moisture in the skin and coat.

Daily brushing of teeth will prevent gum disease and bad breath. If that is not possible then brushing at least 2 to 3 times a week is necessary. This prevents tartar buildup and bacteria between teeth.

The nails have to be kept short to prevent splintering. 

Health Issues

English Foxhounds are a healthy breed. They are prone to certain health conditions like Hip Dysplasia, Renal Disease and Epilepsy.

These problems can be treated with proper medications and a timely visit to the Vet. English Foxhounds have a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. English Foxhounds have tremendous stamina and smelling ability.

Things to Consider Before Bringing an English Foxhound Home

Many people purchase an English Foxhound without understanding the implications. Do proper research into the breed.

Talk to breeders and gather as much information as possible about this breed. Carefully weigh the pros and cons before bringing an English Foxhound home.

English Foxhounds are meant for people with an active lifestyle. They cannot be kept in small apartments. They require large outdoor area for daily exercise.

You must have time to accompany them on their daily exercise routine. 

Once you have made up your mind to bring an English Foxhound puppy home it is essential to find a good breeder. English Foxhounds are a rare breed and it is difficult to find a good breeder.

Always buy your puppies from a well-known breeder who tests their breeding dogs for genetic defects. You need to check the health clearances of your puppy's parents.

Meeting at least one of the puppies parents may be a good method to get an idea about the puppies' temperament. Puppies with good temperament will be playful and willingly approach people.

You can check health clearances from Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF). 


It is recommended to feed 2.5 to 3 cups (0.71 l) of superior quality dry food daily to your dog. The quantity will vary depending upon the size, activity, age and metabolism levels of your dog. 

English Foxhound v/s Beagle

Both Foxhounds and Beagles have the same set of ancestors. They are both used for hunting. Beagles are used for small game but Foxhounds are used for large game.

Both breeds are intelligent and loyal. Both breeds are similar in their appearance. Their coats are of similar color.

English Foxhounds and Beagles exhibit similar personality traits like independence, stubbornness and impatience. Both do not require many efforts for grooming. 

Both require a lot of space and tend to bark loudly at strangers.

English Foxhounds are more independent as compares to Beagles. Beagles are more affectionate and love to be cuddled. Beagles are more suitable for living in apartments.

English Foxhounds are highly energetic while Beagles have energy levels in the medium range. Foxhounds are much larger and stronger than Beagles. Beagles are more intelligent than English Foxhounds.

Ease of training makes Beagles more suitable for new pet owners. English Foxhounds are meant for more experienced owners.

Beagles have a longer life expectancy as compared to English Foxhounds. Many Foxhounds and Beagles were interbred during the 16th and 17th century. The result was some great quality Foxhounds. 


You would do well to remember that hunting dogs like English Foxhounds require time and effort for training. If you invest the required time and effort you will have a faithful hunting companion by your side.

about the author

Frank Harrigan


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