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American Foxhound
Hound breed from United States
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is a large, sleek scenthound with a long, fine-boned body and athletic build, known for incredible stamina, speed, and a melodious baying voice. It is one of the oldest American-bred dogs, developed for endurance and pack hunting. Temperament is described as independent, friendly, gentle, energetic, and intelligent. Energy level is high (5/5), trainability moderate (3/5), grooming low (2/5), and shedding moderate (3/5). Suitability with children is high (4/5), with other dogs high (4/5), but apartment suitability is low (2/5). Adult weight is estimated at 29–32 kg for both sexes, height 56–64 cm, and lifespan 11–13 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
American Foxhound at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHound
OriginUnited States
Lifespan11–13 years
Male weight29–32 kilogram
Female weight29–32 kilogram
Male height56–64 centimetre
Female height56–64 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The American Foxhound was developed from English Foxhounds imported to Colonial America in the 1650s, refined for American terrain and fox hunting. George Washington was a key figure in the breed's development, breeding them to be lighter, taller, and faster for hunting American red fox over varied terrain. The breed originated in the United States and belongs to the Hound group. Its history is tied to pack hunting and endurance, but specific dates of recognition or working purpose beyond fox hunting are not provided in the available facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
29–32 kilogramAdult weight56–64 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Independentfriendlygentleenergeticintelligent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No American Foxhound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
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Growth chart
American Foxhound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight29–32 kilogramAdult female weight29–32 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of an American Foxhound?
Adult weight is estimated at 29–32 kg for both males and females, height 56–64 cm. Lifespan is estimated at 11–13 years. These are modelled estimates, not exact measurements.
What is the temperament of an American Foxhound?
The breed is described as independent, friendly, gentle, energetic, and intelligent. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits.
How much exercise does an American Foxhound need?
Energy score is 5 out of 5, indicating very high energy. They likely require substantial daily exercise, but specific exercise needs are not detailed in the facts.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming score is 2 out of 5 (low), and shedding score is 3 out of 5 (moderate). Regular brushing and occasional baths should suffice, but no specific coat type or color is provided.
Is the American Foxhound good for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is 2 out of 5, suggesting they are not ideal for apartments due to high energy and size. A home with a yard is likely more appropriate.
How does the American Foxhound get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is 4 out of 5 and dog compatibility is 4 out of 5, indicating generally good interactions, but individual temperament varies.
Where does the American Foxhound originate from?
The breed originated in the United States, developed from English Foxhounds imported in the 1650s. George Washington played a key role in refining the breed for American hunting conditions.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.