How to Identify an American Foxhound

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Last Updated: April 6, 2021 References

American Foxhounds are hunting dogs, and members of the hound group. ^{[1]
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American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.

Go to source} Although they share several characteristics with other dog breeds, they have multiple distinguishing characteristics as well. This wikiHow will help you with figuring out whether or not a dog is an American Foxhound.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Looking at the Body Structure

Male American Foxhounds are usually somewhere between 22–25 inches (56–64 cm) tall, and they weigh anywhere between 65–70 pounds (29–32 kg). Female American Foxhounds are usually a little smaller, being anywhere from 21–24 inches (53–61 cm) in height, and weighing anywhere from 60–65 pounds (27–29 kg).^{[2]
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The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.

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American Foxhounds should have a relatively long skull overall, that is slightly domed at the back. The dog should also have a full and broad cranium. ^{[3]
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American Foxhounds typically have long ears that are set moderately low on the dog. When the ears are drawn out, they should reach relatively close to the tip of the nose. The ears should also not be erect, and have a fine texture and be fairly broad, and round at the tip. ^{[4]
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American Foxhounds usually have eyes that are either hazel or brown in color, large and set well apart from each other. ^{[5]
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The tail of an American Foxhound should be set moderately high on the dog, and carried in a cheerful manner (though not curled over their back). The tail should also have very slight brush on it, as well as a slight curve. ^{[6]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Examining the Coat

Therefore, there isn't any coat color in particular that you need to look for. ^{[7]
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American Foxhounds typically have a coat that is of medium length. ^{[8]
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American Foxhounds should have a hard-feeling, close, typical hound coat. ^{[9]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Noticing Temperament

Because they typically hunt/live in packs, American Foxhounds are social dogs who enjoy having social contact. Therefore, if they're the only dog in a household, you'll need to spend a lot of time with them. ^{[10]
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As long as they are socialized properly, American Foxhounds are known to have very sweet, good-natured and kind temperaments, making them great family dogs. ^{[11]
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American Foxhounds are known to be very vocal dogs, and their voice can often be loud, and carry pretty far. ^{[12]
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American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.

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4
Look for independence. Like many other dogs who hunt in packs, American Foxhounds are known to be very independent, stubborn dogs. ^{[13]
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- Because of this, they will need patient, firm and consistent training. ^{[14]
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  American Kennel Club
  The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.
  
  Go to source}
5
Be aware if the dog is easily distracted. American Foxhounds are often easily distracted, meaning they will often closely follow the trail of a scent that they find. ^{[15]
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- American Foxhounds have been known to occasionally dig holes or jump fences to follow these scents, so be aware. ^{[16]
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American Foxhounds typically aren't fond of being cramped inside, and will likely prefer a large space outside to run. ^{[17]
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Tips

Consider dog DNA testing if you're wondering whether or not your dog is an American Foxhound. DNA testing will help confirm your dog's breed.

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