English Foxhound

The English Foxhound is a breed originating in England, where it was bred for fox hunting. They are athletic looking dogs and especially adept at hunting in packs. Distinctive features include low set ears that hang close to the cheeks and pronounced eyebrows.

General details

Dogs of the breed are of medium size and powerful appearance. The weight varies between 27 and 34 kilograms, while the height ranges from 61 centimeters. The life expectancy of this breed is 10 to 13 years. They belong to Group 6 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which groups hound and scent hounds, as well as other similar breeds.

Breed history in brief

The English Foxhound was created in England during the 17th century specifically for fox hunting on horseback in packs. The objective was to develop a dog of great endurance, speed and scent, capable of chasing and cornering prey for hours. The breed was established by crossing large deer hounds with Greyhounds. Subsequently, the popularity of foxhunting on horseback declined, which meant a decrease in the breed's breeding. Still, the breed survived thanks to a few dedicated breeders, who continued to breed Foxhounds for sport and as pets. Today, the English Foxhound is still used for hunting, but has also adapted to life as a companion animal in active households.

Breed characteristics

The English Foxhound is a balanced and powerful dog, with long, straight and strong limbs. Its head is of medium size, with well defined eyebrows and a long, broad nose. The eyes are medium-sized, hazel or brown with a shrewd expression, while the ears are set high and close to the cheeks. The tail is carried jauntily but never curled over the back. The coat is dense, short and waterproof. They can be black, tan and white, or any combination of these three. The English Foxhound is a dog that stands out for being friendly, sociable and affable. They are playful dogs that enjoy time in the company of people and other dogs. They are also active and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. As a consequence of their hunting instinct they can be stubborn, although they are very loyal and affectionate.

Common health problems

The breed is characterized by good health. However, they are prone to develop certain disorders or pathologies such as leukodystrophies, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, pseudohermaphroditism, osteochondrosis, cataracts, cryptorchidism, deafness, ectropion, entropion, glaucoma, hemophilia A, hypothyroidism and progressive retinal atrophy.