American Foxhound

Historical Development and Temperament

The American Foxhound is a breed deeply rooted in the colonial history of the United States. Developed primarily in Maryland and Virginia, these hounds were bred from English Foxhounds brought to the colonies in the mid-17th century, later crossed with French Hounds gifted to George Washington by the Marquis de Lafayette. This selective breeding aimed to create a hound with greater speed, stamina, and a more melodic voice than its European ancestors, specifically adapted to the rugged and varied American terrain. Throughout the development of the breed, breeders focused heavily on maintaining distinct bloodlines to ensure the hound could track foxes over vast distances with relentless drive.

Temperamentally, the American Foxhound is a gentle, easy-going, and sociable animal. They are pack-oriented dogs that thrive in the company of other canines, though they can be somewhat reserved with strangers. Their high energy levels and independent nature require consistent guidance, often taught at specialized training centers to ensure they remain manageable in domestic settings. While they are affectionate companions, their primary instinct remains the hunt, and they are best suited for active owners who understand the nuances of scent-driven breeds. When participating in competitions, the breed is evaluated on its ability to maintain a steady, rhythmic gait and its overall structural soundness.

Anatomical Standards and Evaluation

• General Appearance: A well-balanced hound with a long, clean head, deep chest, and powerful, muscular hindquarters.
• Head: The skull is fairly long, with a slight dome at the occiput. The muzzle is of medium length, straight and square-cut.
• Eyes: Large, set well apart, with a soft, hound-like expression, usually hazel or brown.
• Ears: Set low and long, reaching nearly to the end of the nose when drawn forward.
• Coat: Close, hard, and of medium length, providing protection against dense underbrush.
• Movement: The gait must be free and easy, with a long reach and strong drive, a hallmark that evaluators look for in the ring.
• Compliance: Breeders must adhere to strict exhibition standards to maintain the integrity of the breed.
• Recognition: The breed is recognized by various national organizations that oversee the preservation of the American Foxhound's unique characteristics.

• The American Foxhound is the official state dog of Virginia.
• They possess an incredibly keen sense of smell, capable of tracking scents over miles of difficult terrain.
• Despite their hunting prowess, they are known for having a very mellow and quiet demeanor when indoors.
• They are one of the few breeds that were specifically developed by American Founding Fathers.
• Their bark, often described as a 'bay,' is distinct and carries over long distances, a trait highly valued by hunters.