PuppyBase

American Foxhound vs Plott Hound

Side-by-side comparison across all 14 AKC trait ratings, with a clear verdict on which breed fits which kind of household.

Perfect Puppy Quiz · 5 questions · 90 seconds

Not sure which breed fits your life?

Answer five questions about your home, your schedule, and your tolerance for shedding. We’ll match you to your top three breeds from over 200.

The bottom line

American Foxhound vs Plott Hound

People compare American Foxhounds and Plott Hounds because both are American-bred hunters with deep voices and boundless stamina, but they’re built for very different kinds of country. and very different kinds of people. If you're picturing open fields and long chases on horseback, you're thinking of the American Foxhound. They’re the social, easygoing type who’ll get along with just about any dog or kid, but don’t mistake that sweetness for obedience. They’ve got a mind of their own, and that nose? It rules them. Once they catch a scent, you’re not getting their attention back. They bark. a lot. and they need space. A backyard fence won’t cut it unless it’s tall and secure, because they’ll follow a trail for miles. The Plott Hound, on the other hand, comes from steeper, rougher terrain, bred to take on bear and boar. They’re more focused, more loyal, and surprisingly trainable for a hound. They bond closely with their people and are more adaptable to different living situations. though they still need serious daily exercise. Less shedding, slightly quieter, but don’t be fooled: they’ll still bay when they’re on a track. They’re not quite as kid-friendly by default, tending to be more reserved, but they’re deeply affectionate with their family. Here’s the real difference beyond the stats: the American Foxhound is a team player built for packs and open country; the Plott is a solo operator with grit and determination. If you want a dog that thrives in a multi-dog home and loves group activities, go Foxhound. If you’re an experienced handler looking for a bold, loyal partner for serious hunting or backcountry adventures, the Plott’s your hound.

American Foxhound
Plott Hound
21–25 in
Height
20–25 in
60–70 lb
Weight
40–60 lb
11–13 yr
Lifespan
12–14 yr
$1.0–2.4k
Puppy price
$0.8–2.0k
#186
AKC popularity
#171

Trait-by-trait

Higher bar = more of that trait. Shedding, barking, drooling, grooming flipped for readability.
Affectionate w/ Family
Good with Young Children
Good with Other Dogs
Shedding Level
Coat Grooming
Drooling Level
Good with Strangers
Playfulness
Watchdog / Protective
Adaptability
Trainability
Energy Level
Barking Level
Mental Stimulation Needs
AffectionGood w/ KidsGood w/ DogsShedding LevelGroomingDrooling LevelGood w/ StrangersPlayfulnessProtectiveAdaptabilityTrainabilityEnergy LevelBarking LevelMental Stim.
American Foxhound Plott Hound
Overlay

Where they diverge

Affectionate w/ Family
Plott Hound is more affectionate (2-point difference)
Plott
Good with Young Children
American Foxhound is better with kids (2-point difference)
American
Shedding Level
Plott Hound sheds less (1-point difference)
Plott
Drooling Level
American Foxhound drools less (1-point difference)
American
Good with Strangers
Plott Hound is friendlier with strangers (1-point difference)
Plott
The verdict

Choose the American Foxhound if…

  • Active people
  • Rural homes
  • Hunters
  • You value good with young childrenAmerican Foxhound scores noticeably higher.

Choose the Plott Hound if…

  • Hunters
  • Active outdoor owners
  • Rural settings
  • You value affectionate w/ familyPlott Hound scores higher here.
American Foxhound Owner’s Guide
Everything you need before bringing your American Foxhound home.
Breed variants, breeder red flags, and what to ask
First-week checklist and daily schedules by age
Training timeline from 8 weeks to adulthood
Health screenings, emergency card, and feeding portions
Grooming schedule, first-year costs, and what nobody tells you
Get Your Guide
Plott Hound Owner’s Guide
Everything you need before bringing your Plott Hound home.
Breed variants, breeder red flags, and what to ask
First-week checklist and daily schedules by age
Training timeline from 8 weeks to adulthood
Health screenings, emergency card, and feeding portions
Grooming schedule, first-year costs, and what nobody tells you
Get Your Guide

Other comparisons people run