Spotlight Breed: English Foxhound
Welcome to our Spotlight Breed article of the week. This is where we feature a fun and unique dog breed from around the world! Today we are excited to spotlight the English Foxhound. This dog was originally a hunting dog breed, designed to pursue foxes in the English countryside. Another interesting fact is that many English Foxhounds compete in Foxhound Performance Trials, which grade the dogs on their pack hunting skills. There is so much more to this breed which we will outline in this article.
The English Foxhound is friendly to people and are considered good with children. However, this dog loves to be in the company of other dogs even better, preferably running around outside. This is a very active breed. Their athletic and energetic traits make them suited for large home living, preferably with a fenced in back yard for play. This breed will not do well in an apartment or small home as they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation each day.
The English Foxhound is a stouter dog than their American Foxhound cousin. Males are about 22 to 25 inches tall, and females average an inch shorter. Their coats are short, dense, hard, and glossy. The color of the English Foxhound ranges from black to tan to white, or any combination of the three. Their ears flop downward and lay flat against the head and their tails are long and held straight up above the body.
Keep in mind that the English Foxhound is known to be quite vocal. Although they will alert their fellow pack members to the presence of strangers, they will quiet down quickly when told to do so. Training and socialization are important for the English Foxhound, especially if the dog is not pursuing his ancient calling of hunting. Exposing an English Foxhound to as many people, places, and new situations as possible while teaching them to perform certain behaviors on command will help give them the mental stimulation that they need.
Are you looking for a dog that is athletic, smart, and lovable? If the answer is yes, then the English Foxhound may be for you! We will leave you with our favorite quote about the breed: “I was normal before I adopted an English Foxhound!”
