Dog Breed: American Foxhound

September 4, 2010 by jamesk  
Filed under Dog Training Tricks

The striking conformation of an American Foxhound bears a striking resemblance to the body build of a Beagle. The dog generally stands between 21 to 25 inches and weighs from 65 to 75 pounds. The streamlined athletic body is thickly covered with a short fur that ranges in color from tan and white, red and white and the impressive combination of black, tan and white. The admirable speed of this excellent hunter is attributed to the well boned strong legs.

The American Foxhound is believed to be in existence in the Crown Colony – long before it was given the name America. This breed originated from the English dogs that were brought to the New World in 1650 by Robert Brooke.

In its country of origin, these dogs were acclaimed for being excellent hunters. The British landed gentry utilizes these dogs to hunt foxes. On a fox hunt, packs of American Foxhounds will chase the prey while hunters follow on horseback. The deep and booming melodious voice will distinctly change to alert the hunters when a prey is found. The dogs are used by the settlers of the Crown colony to hunt foxes as well. American Foxhound is a ferocious breed thus it was rumored that the dog have been used by the colonizers to hunt Indians.

The English Foxhounds were crossed and re-crossed with the dogs of settlers from Ireland and France until a new breed that has adapted to the conditions of the new country has evolved. This has resulted to the development of the American Foxhound.

The American Foxhound, first and foremost is a hunting dog. This dogs would love nothing more than to hunt. This breed is equipped with a sensitive scenting ability, strength and stamina and a strong prey drive. An American Foxhound that has found an interesting scent will not let anything or anybody to stand in its way to bag the prey. Breed name suggests that the dog is a fox hunter but American Foxhounds hunt other animals as well.It is not surprising if this breed is on the top list most valued hunting dogs.

American Foxhounds are highly valued for their excellent hunting abilities. Although the dogs exhibit a courageous and tenacious temperament when hunting, American Foxhounds have a sweet and gentle personality. Highly energetic while hunting, this dog turns into a calm, gentle and sweet family companion. Unlike other breeds, American Foxhound does not give its loyalty to just one person. This breed that loves the whole family is particularly affectionate and gentle with children.


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