American Foxhound

Historical Development

The American Foxhound is a breed deeply rooted in the colonial history of the United States. Developed primarily in Maryland and Virginia, the breed traces its lineage back to the English Foxhounds brought to the colonies in the mid-17th century. Robert Brooke, who arrived in Maryland in 1650, is often credited with bringing the first hounds that would eventually form the foundation of the American strain. Over time, these hounds were crossed with French Hounds, specifically the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, gifted to George Washington by the Marquis de Lafayette. This infusion of French blood contributed to the breed's exceptional scenting ability and melodic voice, which are essential for the rigorous champion rules of traditional pack hunting.

Evolution and Purpose

Unlike their English counterparts, which were bred for heavy, enclosed terrain, the American Foxhound was developed to navigate the vast, rugged landscapes of the American wilderness. Breeders prioritized speed, endurance, and a keen sense of smell. The selection process was brutal and efficient; only the most capable hounds were kept for breeding, ensuring that the breed remained a functional athlete. As the sport of fox hunting evolved, so did the breed's reputation, leading to its formal recognition by various kennel official kennel clubs that sought to preserve the integrity of the working hound. The breed's temperament is characterized by a gentle, easygoing nature, yet they possess an intense drive when on the trail.

Modern Status

Today, the American Foxhound remains a rare sight in the urban show ring, as their primary purpose remains field work. They are pack-oriented animals that thrive in the company of other dogs. Their physical structure is lighter and more refined than the English Foxhound, featuring longer legs and a more arched loin, which provides the necessary agility for long-distance pursuit. While they are not typical household pets, those who understand their requirements find them to be loyal and affectionate companions. Their training requires patience, as their independent nature can sometimes be mistaken for stubbornness, a trait often discussed in specialized training cynology schools that focus on scent-driven breeds.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Dogs 56-64 cm; Bitches 53-61 cm.
• Coat: Close, hard, medium length.
• Color: Any color is acceptable, though tri-color is most common.
• Temperament: Kind, sweet-tempered, and undemanding.

Judging Criteria

• Movement: Easy and graceful, with a long, reaching stride.
• Head: Fairly long, with a slightly domed skull and broad ears.
• Participation: The breed is frequently evaluated at major exhibition portals to ensure adherence to the standard.
• Nomenclature: Breeders often use specific pedigree names to track lineage and performance traits.

• The American Foxhound is the official state dog of Virginia.
• They have a unique, deep-throated bark known as a 'bay' that can be heard for miles.
• They are capable of running at high speeds for hours without tiring.
• Despite their name, they were originally used to hunt deer before shifting to foxes.
• They are one of the rarest breeds registered by major kennel clubs.