English Foxhound breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About English Foxhounds
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the English Foxhound breed
The English Foxhound was first bred in England during the late 16th century for fox hunting. Designed to run tirelessly for hours, these medium-to-large dogs are known for their stamina, speed, and their ability to work as part of a pack. English Foxhounds are friendly and sociable, enjoying the company of people and other dogs. They have a striking appearance, with a muscular build and a sleek, short coat.
Weight, height & life expectancy
English Foxhounds typically stand between 58 and 64cm tall at the shoulder and weigh 27 to 34kg, depending on gender and build.
Their life expectancy is generally 10 to 13 years.
What is the temperament of an English Foxhound like?
English Foxhounds are gentle, loyal, and sociable dogs with a calm demeanour. They thrive in active homes and are happiest when they have a purpose, such as running, exploring, or engaging in stimulating activities. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even strangers, thanks to their natural pack instincts.
That said, English Foxhounds can be independent thinkers, as their hunting background means they have a strong prey drive and an innate curiosity. This can sometimes make recall challenging, particularly if they catch an interesting scent. They’re not known to be excessive barkers, but they do have a distinctive bay that they may use when excited or on the trail of something interesting.
Our Foxhound Community
“Benny is a loving and energetic young boy. He loves long walks and playing fetch. He is super affectionate and loves cuddles once he has settled in a familiar space.”
Benny’s owner, Natalie from Edinburgh
“Hunter thrives on a long walk with pheasant treats, ending with a cosy nap. Hunter has the sweetest puppy dog eyes, loves belly rubs and cuddles.”
Hunter’s owner, Elle from Hertfordshire
How much exercise does an English Foxhound need?
English Foxhounds are highly active dogs that require at least 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise daily. They thrive on long walks, runs, or hikes, and enjoy activities that engage both their body and mind, such as scent games or agility training. Being bred for endurance, they’re happiest when given opportunities to stretch their legs over large, open spaces. A securely fenced area is crucial, as their natural hunting instincts may lead them to wander off once they sniff out a scent.
Need an extra hand exercising your English Foxhound? Find a local borrower today.
Do English Foxhounds need a lot of grooming?
English Foxhounds have a short, dense, weather-resistant coat that is easy to maintain. Regular brushing once or twice a week will help keep their coat in good condition and reduce shedding. Their coat is often seen in a classic tricolour pattern of white, black, and tan, though some individuals may be bicolour or feature ticking (speckled markings).
Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. If you can’t manage that often, just do it as often as you can.
Are English Foxhounds easy to train?
Training an English Foxhound can be both rewarding and challenging. While they are intelligent and eager to please, they are also independent and can be easily distracted by scents. Positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience are key when training this breed. Early socialisation and obedience training are highly recommended to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults.
Due to their working dog background, English Foxhounds are most responsive when training involves physical activity and mental stimulation. They may not always be as quick to obey commands as some other breeds, but their affectionate and cooperative nature makes them a joy to work with.
Want to experience spending time with an English Foxhound to decide if this breed is right for you? Borrow an English Foxhound near you.
What do English Foxhounds eat?
English Foxhounds should be fed a high-quality, balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs as active dogs. Adult Foxhounds typically require two meals a day, while puppies will need smaller, more frequent meals. Puppies should transition from puppy to adult food at between 9 and 12 months old, but as every puppy and food brand is different, always check with your vet and/or food producer.
It’s important to monitor their food intake, as they have a healthy appetite and can be prone to overeating. Using a slow feeder can help prevent them from eating too quickly and provides an added mental challenge. Always consult your vet for guidance on portion sizes and dietary needs, especially during different life stages.
Are English Foxhounds healthy?
English Foxhounds are generally healthy, robust dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health conditions:
Bones and joints
Hip dysplasia - a condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit together properly, potentially causing pain or arthritis
Eyes
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) - a degenerative condition that can lead to vision loss over time
Ears
Ear infections - their floppy ears can trap moisture, making them prone to infections. Regular cleaning and checks are important
Body weight
Obesity - active as they are, English Foxhounds can still gain weight if overfed or under-exercised.
This list is by no means comprehensive, so if you have any concerns about the health of your English Foxhound or if you want to discuss further if this is the right breed for you, consult with your vet.
Vet top tip
English Foxhounds are highly motivated by scent and have a knack for getting into things they shouldn’t. Be mindful of storing food, chemicals, and anything potentially harmful out of reach to keep your Foxhound safe.
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health contact your local vet.
