American Foxhound

We're arguably the oldest of American breeds, descended from English Foxhounds who came to this country in the 1600s. Our lines were improved by none other than George Washington. These days as sporting dogs, we specialize as competitive Field trial and Trail hounds (the speediest among us), as pack hounds (with 20 or so in a pack, working for farmers and hunters) and plain old foxhunt hounds (the ones with the best voices). A well-conditioned American Foxhound is a lean 60 pounds or so and stands up to 25 inches at the shoulders.

• Affectionate, loyal family friend
• Agile and active
• Always alert
• Born to run, happy to walk
• Even-tempered, good-natured
• Hardy hunter

• Loves kids and vice-versa
• Outdoors enthusiast
• Caters to country, tolerates town
• Spirited
• Socialization and training should start early
• Stubborn streak
• A welcomer, not a watchdog
• Coat needs regular care

If you plan to keep me in an apartment, there had better be miles of running space nearby, as well as tolerant (preferably deaf) neighbors because my so-called melodious voice (loud, deep barks followed by high-pitched howls) will echo for miles. Maybe we'd better talk about a place in the country. There, you can give me the regular brushings that my special coat requires before we go out to play. When I do find that fox, you'll be the first to hear about it.

Possible deafness and eye defects.