American Foxhound vs. English Foxhound

Attribute	American Foxhound	English Foxhound
Origin	United States	England
Size	Large	Large
Weight	65-75 pounds	60-70 pounds
Height	21-25 inches	21-25 inches
Coat	Short and dense	Short and dense
Color	Various colors	Various colors
Temperament	Friendly, gentle, and sociable	Friendly, gentle, and sociable
Exercise Needs	High	High
Trainability	Moderate	Moderate
Lifespan	10-12 years	10-12 years

Introduction

The American Foxhound and English Foxhound are two distinct breeds of hounds that share a common ancestry. While they both excel in hunting, they have subtle differences in their attributes and characteristics. In this article, we will explore the unique qualities of each breed, including their appearance, temperament, exercise needs, and trainability.

Appearance

The American Foxhound and English Foxhound have similar physical features, but there are some notable differences. The American Foxhound is slightly taller and leaner, with a more athletic build. They have a deep chest, long legs, and a well-muscled body. Their ears are large and hang down, while their eyes are expressive and kind.

On the other hand, the English Foxhound is slightly shorter and stockier. They have a broader chest and a more substantial bone structure. Their ears are also large and hang down, but their eyes have a more intense and determined expression. Both breeds have short, dense coats that come in a variety of colors, including black, white, and tan.

Temperament

When it comes to temperament, both the American Foxhound and English Foxhound are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They are generally good with children and other dogs, making them suitable for families. However, the American Foxhound tends to be more outgoing and gregarious, often seeking attention and affection from their human companions.

The English Foxhound, on the other hand, is known for its slightly more reserved and independent nature. They are highly focused and determined when it comes to hunting, which can sometimes make them less interested in constant human interaction. However, with proper socialization and training, both breeds can be loving and loyal companions.

Exercise Needs

Both the American Foxhound and English Foxhound are energetic breeds that require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. However, the American Foxhound has a higher energy level and needs more physical activity to burn off their excess energy. They thrive in an active household where they can participate in activities such as running, hiking, or playing fetch.

The English Foxhound, on the other hand, is slightly less demanding in terms of exercise needs. While they still require daily walks and playtime, they are generally content with moderate exercise. They are known for their stamina and endurance, which makes them excellent companions for long walks or jogs.

It's important to note that both breeds have a strong prey drive and should always be exercised in a secure and controlled environment to prevent them from chasing after small animals or getting lost while following scents.

Trainability

When it comes to trainability, both the American Foxhound and English Foxhound can present some challenges. Due to their strong hunting instincts, they can be easily distracted by scents and may have a tendency to follow their nose rather than obey commands. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods are key when training these breeds.

The American Foxhound, being more sociable and eager to please, tends to be slightly more trainable than the English Foxhound. They are known for their intelligence and can quickly pick up on commands and cues. However, they may still require extra effort and reinforcement to overcome their natural inclination to follow scents.

The English Foxhound, on the other hand, can be more independent and stubborn during training sessions. They have a strong sense of determination and may require a firm and patient handler. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for both breeds to ensure they grow into well-behaved and obedient dogs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the American Foxhound and English Foxhound share a common ancestry and have many similarities, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart. The American Foxhound is slightly taller, more outgoing, and requires more exercise, while the English Foxhound is slightly shorter, more reserved, and has a slightly lower energy level.

Both breeds make excellent hunting companions and can be loving family pets with proper socialization and training. Ultimately, the choice between the American Foxhound and English Foxhound depends on individual preferences and lifestyle. Regardless of the breed chosen, providing a loving and stimulating environment will ensure a happy and fulfilling life for these remarkable hounds.