English Foxhound
A pack hound through and through — bred to run with dozens of other dogs across open countryside, which means they're sociable but tricky to manage solo. They need serious mileage every day; a casual walk is an insult to their breeding. Best suited to rural life with equestrian households or active hunters who can actually keep up.
Free weekly training plan, specific to your English Foxhound’s age. Exactly what to focus on this week.
Get your free training planLiving with a English Foxhound
The English Foxhound was built for one job: running for miles across the English countryside in a pack, nose to the ground, chasing foxes alongside horseback riders. That history shapes every part of who they are today. These dogs are lean, muscular, and built for endurance, standing a solid 24 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 60 and 75 pounds.
They’re not flashy, but they’ve got a classic hound look, deep chest, long legs, and those big, pleading eyes that make you think they’re always ready for adventure or a snack, probably both. Living with one isn’t about quiet evenings on the couch. English Foxhounds are affectionate and gentle, yes, and they adore kids and other dogs, but they’re also loud.
We’re talking a barking level of 5 out of 5, when they catch a scent or hear another dog, the whole neighborhood knows. And that energy? Also 4 out of 5.
They need serious exercise, not just a backyard loop. Think long runs, hikes, or off-leash time in secure areas. Without it, they’ll find their own entertainment, like howling, digging, or testing your fence.
Grooming is low drama. Their short coat sheds moderately, so a weekly brush keeps things under control. But don’t be fooled by their easy coat, this isn’t a dog for apartment life or someone who prefers a calm home.
They thrive in rural settings, especially with access to fields or trails, and they do best in homes where another dog (or two) is around. They’re pack animals at heart. Health-wise, watch for hip dysplasia, bloat, and epilepsy.
Regular vet checks and feeding multiple small meals a day help reduce bloat risk, a serious concern for deep-chested breeds. Lifespan is solid. 10 to 13 years, if you stay on top of their needs.
They’re perfect for active families, hunters, or equestrian households who spend time outdoors. But if you want a velcro companion that curls up beside you after a walk, look elsewhere. Here’s the real talk: English Foxhounds bond deeply, but they’re not clingy.
They love you, they just love the scent of a rabbit more. Know that going in, and you’ll get along just fine.
14 traits, at a glance.
Every breed on PuppyBase is rated across the 14 trait dimensions the American Kennel Club publishes — from trainability to drooling level. The higher the score, the better the fit for that trait.
What to expect day-to-day
Things to screen for
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Renal disease
- Bloat (GDV)
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