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PORTUGAISEnglish foxhound
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog english foxhound!
Here, you will find all the useful information about english foxhound. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The English Foxhound is, as its name indicates, of British origin, this breed is the object of a tradition of breeding dating back more than two centuries in the United Kingdom. It is notably the Masters of Foxhounds Association that has been recording, managing and controlling breeding and births in the country since the 17ᵉ century, almost all Foxhound owners can know the exact origins of their dogs over several dozen generations.
Primarily used as a hound, it was recognised by the International Cynological Federation on 25 April 1955, with the latest update of the official standard published on 26 March 2009.
The English Foxhound is one of the larger dogs, unlike its close American cousin, which is smaller and stockier. Well proportioned and powerful, the English Foxhound is a very popular dog for hunting, thanks to its many physical qualities such as resistance to effort and its remarkably well developed sense of smell. Despite its imposing size, it remains fluid and supple in its movements, with a light gait.
Solidly built, his legs are strong and agile, his back straight and broad, his loins strong and his chest deep. The head is in proportion to the rest of the body, the muzzle long and the stop not very marked. The coat is short and thick, which provides particularly good protection against adverse weather conditions. All colours and markings are permitted by the breed standard.
The English Foxhound is not very demonstrative by nature, however it retains a gentle and pleasant temperament with man, a hunting dog par excellence, it is a hard worker, showing little limit of endurance or courage. Energetic and very active, he will be more at ease in a rural environment, with space to spend and a pack with which he can blossom. A playful dog at heart, they are willing to share playful activities with their social group, especially if they are involved in tracking prey or searching for objects.
Balanced and versatile, the English Foxhound can also take on the role of family dog without difficulty, but it will need a large garden and regular physical activity to feel comfortable in its paws. In spite of its independent nature and its obstinacy with work, it remains nevertheless faithful and loyal, thus it will accompany you with benevolence and complicity in your daily newspaper.
Adult: The English Foxhound will weigh approximately 66 lbs and his height at the withers will be approximately 23" - 25.2".
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Origins
The English Foxhound, also known as the English Foxhound, is a dog breed originating from England. Developed in the 18th century, it was bred for fox hunting. Its ancestors include French hounds, English hounds, and greyhounds, crossed to create a fast, enduring dog with excellent scenting abilities. Primarily used for hunting in packs, the English Foxhound is known for its endurance, tenacity, and ability to work in a group under the direction of hunters.
History
The history of the English Foxhound dates back to the 18th century, a time when fox hunting was a very popular sport among the British nobility. Breeders worked to perfect this breed to create a dog capable of following foxes over long distances and across varied terrains. In 1786, the first Foxhound Stud Book, known as the "Foxhound Stud Book", was published in England, codifying the breed standards. Today, although less commonly used for hunting, the English Foxhound is appreciated for its qualities as a companion and working dog.
Standard
The English Foxhound breed standard describes a dog of large size, well proportioned and muscular. Males generally measure between 58 and 64 cm at the withers and weigh between 29 and 34 kg, while females are slightly smaller. The head is wide with a slightly domed skull and drooping ears. The eyes are large, hazel or brown in color, expressing liveliness and intelligence. The coat is short, dense, and hard, often tricolor (black, white, and tan) or bicolor. The tail is carried high and slightly curved, adding to the overall elegance.
Physical characteristics
The English Foxhound is an athletic dog with a sturdy structure and well-developed limbs. Its long, drooping ears, straight muzzle, and expressive eyes give it a noble appearance. The coat is short, dense, and weather-resistant, perfect for long days of hunting. Its legs are strong and straight, with compact feet, allowing it to run long distances without getting tired. Its tail, carried high, adds to its elegant and confident look, making it easily recognizable.
Character
The English Foxhound is known for its friendly, energetic, and sociable nature. It is highly valued for its ability to work in a pack, making it an excellent companion for other dogs. Its hunting instinct is very strong, and it can be quite independent when it picks up an interesting scent. Loyal and devoted to its family, it is also gentle and affectionate with loved ones. Although friendly with strangers, it can be reserved. Due to its energy and need for stimulation, it is best suited for active families.
Life expectancy
The English Foxhound has an average life expectancy of 10 to 13 years. To maximize its longevity and quality of life, it is essential to provide it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate veterinary care. Monitoring its health is crucial to prevent and quickly treat any potential illnesses. Common health issues in this breed include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and certain eye diseases. Regular veterinary exams help to detect and manage these issues effectively.
Exercise and activity needs
The English Foxhound is a very active dog that requires a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, runs, and outdoor games are essential to meet its energy needs. It also excels in outdoor activities such as hiking and canine sports like agility. Due to its strong hunting instinct, it is best to keep it on a leash or in a secure space when outdoors. Mentally stimulating activities, such as tracking games and obedience training, are also important to prevent boredom.
Recommended diet
The English Foxhound's diet should be balanced and adapted to its activity level, age, and health status. High-quality, protein-rich food is essential to maintain its muscle mass and energy. Portions should be well measured to avoid overweight issues, especially for less active dogs. It is recommended to divide meals into two portions per day to facilitate digestion. Treats can be used in moderation, especially as rewards during training sessions, while monitoring calorie intake.
Training and obedience
The education of the English Foxhound requires a consistent and patient approach, using positive reinforcement methods. Due to its intelligence and hunting instinct, it can sometimes be independent and distracted, but it responds well to encouragement and rewards. Early socialization is crucial for learning to interact properly with other dogs, animals, and people. Obedience classes can help establish a good education base, and mentally stimulating activities are necessary to prevent boredom and undesirable behaviors.
Behavior with children
The English Foxhound is generally good with children, especially if it has been properly socialized and trained from a young age. Its energy and playful nature make it an excellent playmate for active children. However, due to its size and energy level, it is important to monitor interactions with young children to avoid overly rough play. Children should be taught how to handle and respect the dog to ensure a harmonious and safe coexistence. Its patience and affectionate nature make it a good family companion.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The English Foxhound can live with other pets if it is well socialized from a young age. Its hunting instinct may lead it to chase small animals, but with gradual introduction and supervision, it can learn to accept other animals. Relationships with other dogs are generally good, especially if it is used to living in a pack. However, initial supervision is recommended to ensure that interactions go smoothly and that all animals get used to each other's presence.
Grooming needs
The English Foxhound has a short and dense coat that requires little maintenance. A weekly brushing is enough to remove dead hair and keep the coat clean and shiny. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary to control hair loss. Baths are only necessary when the dog is particularly dirty, as excessive bathing can dry out their skin. It is important to regularly monitor and clean their ears to prevent infections, as well as trim their nails and brush their teeth to maintain good overall hygiene.
Health
The English Foxhound is generally healthy, but like all breeds, it can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Some of the most common health problems include hip dysplasia, ear infections due to its long hanging ears, and some eye diseases. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and moderate exercise help prevent and manage these issues. Genetic screening tests can also be performed to assess the risks of hereditary diseases and ensure the health of puppies.
Average price
The price of an English Foxhound puppy generally varies between 600 and 1,200 euros (or 700 and 1,300 dollars), depending on the reputation of the breeder, the bloodlines, and the quality of the parents. Reputable breeders often offer health guarantees, pedigree certificates, and after-sales support, justifying a higher price. It is crucial to choose a responsible breeder who respects the breed standards and provides healthy, well-socialized puppies with all necessary vaccinations.
Expenses
Annual expenses for an English Foxhound can vary between 1,000 and 1,800 euros (or 1,100 and 2,000 dollars). This includes costs of high-quality food, regular veterinary care (vaccinations, deworming, health checks), pet insurance, grooming products, and accessories. Additional fees may occur for training classes, specific activities, and unexpected medical treatments. Health care costs can increase if specific breed-related health issues require special follow-ups or treatments.
Name ideas
For an English Foxhound, names reflecting his energy and noble character are ideal. For example, "Hunter" for his hunting instinct, "Ranger" evoking vast spaces, "Bella" which means "beautiful" in Italian, or "Rex" for his royal nature. "Max" for his imposing stature, "Luna" for his protective side, "Dash" in reference to his speed, "Scout" for his explorer spirit, "Zeus" symbolizing strength, and "Nova" as a new star in your life.
Legislation and regulation
The English Foxhound is generally not subject to specific bans in most countries. However, it is essential to comply with local regulations regarding dog ownership. This includes registering with local authorities, mandatory vaccinations, and following responsible ownership rules. In France, for example, dogs must be identified by microchip or tattoo and registered in the national database for domestic carnivores. It is recommended to check local laws before acquiring an English Foxhound.
Official recognition
The English Foxhound is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 159, in Group 6 (scenthounds, bloodhounds and related breeds). This recognition guarantees that the breed is standardized and respected internationally. In the United Kingdom, its country of origin, the Kennel Club (KC) is the organization responsible for promoting and managing the breed standards. Other worldwide registries, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), also recognize this breed under their respective standards.
Pedigrees
English Foxhound pedigrees are available from breed clubs and national canine organizations such as the Kennel Club (KC) in the UK and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the United States. These pedigrees provide detailed information on the dog's lineage, tracing back several generations and including information on ancestors, their adherence to breed standards, and any participation in shows. A certified pedigree ensures the purity of the breed and helps evaluate the qualities and genetic predispositions of puppies.
Destination and usage
Historically, the English Foxhound has been primarily used as a hunting dog, specialized in tracking foxes and other game over long distances. Today, it retains its skills as a fearless hunter and is often used for hunting in packs. However, due to its friendly and sociable nature, it also makes an excellent companion dog for active families. Its versatility allows it to participate in various canine activities, such as agility, obedience, and shows, where it can demonstrate its endurance and intelligence.
Prohibitions
The English Foxhound is generally not banned in most countries as it is not considered a dangerous breed. However, it is essential to check local regulations regarding dog ownership as they may vary. Some jurisdictions may impose specific restrictions on hunting dogs. It is crucial to comply with local laws regarding dog ownership, including registration, vaccinations, and following responsible ownership rules to avoid any legal issues.
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