Gun Dog Breeders: What Characteristics Do Breeders Look For in an American Foxhound?

American Foxhounds are one of the oldest North American dog breeds, tracing their lineage back to English Foxhounds brought over in the late 17th century. Gun dog breeders breed them almost exclusively for hunting foxes in packs, with humans on horses in distant pursuit. American Foxhounds are also one of the rarest pure breeds in the U.S.

Though sweet-tempered and good with children, the American Foxhound is born and bred to be a hunter. Because of that, stubbornness and independence is expected, according to the American Kennel Club, which recognized the breed in 1886.

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It’s an energetic dog, so even if it's not going to be used for hunting, a foxhound needs space to run and plenty of exercise. The dog is also by temperament a pack animal, so an owner needs to establish himself or herself as the pack leader, according to the Dog Breed Info Center.

Here, according to the American Kennel Club and the American Foxhound Club, are the characteristics breeders look for an American Foxhound:

1. Head: The American Kennel Club likes foxhounds to have a long skull with plenty of room for the brain, droopy ears that can stretch almost to the tip of the nose, large soft brown or hazel eyes with a “gentle and pleading” expression, and a straight, square muzzle.

2. Body: A foxhound should have muscular shoulders, a deep but narrow chest with “well-sprung” ribs extending far back, and a strong but not thick neck that holds the head high. The tail should be carried high, with a slight curve and a “very slight” brush at the end.

3. Legs: A foxhound should have straight, muscular forelegs with slightly sloping pasterns, and “fox-like” feet that are well padded with arched toes. Hips, thighs, and hind legs should be strong, muscled, and mostly straight, with slight bends at the hocks, and hind feet close together for “propelling power.”

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4. Coat: The AKC likes a “close, hard, hound coat” and takes points off for soft hair. Though American Foxhounds are typically thought of as having a white, black, and tan coat, they can be any color.

5. Height: The American Foxhound Club says a male should be 23 to 28 inches tall and females 21 to 26 inches tall, measured at the withers, or top of the shoulder blades.

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