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Hound breeds: English Foxhound
Origin
The original Foxhound was a mixing of various hounds, later blended with the Greyhound, the Bulldog and the Fox Terrier. From the latter three breeds the Foxhound inherited its sudden bursts of speed during the chase, his force and authority, and his passion for the hunt, respectively. In appearance, the English Foxhound is far more stout than his American cousin.
In England, as in America, the Foxhounds have always been used for foxhunting as in the English habit of riding to the hounds. There have been more than 250 packs of hounds in England, all of which use English Foxhounds. In the United States there are over 100 packs of hounds, only 10 percent of which would be eligible for the English Foxhound Stud Book.
General description
No dimensions of height or weight are given by the standard for this breed, but it is generally heavier than the American Foxhounds. The dog is slightly longer than tall. Ideal proportion would be 25 inches tall to 27-1/2 inches long.
Color: The color is not important but should be of good "hound" colors: black, tan and white or any combination of the three or of various pies of white with yellow or tan.
Grooming requirements
Grooming this breed requires little more than a curry brush, spray conditioner and some time. Regular ear cleaning and nail clipping are necessary.
Health considerations
The English Foxhound can have a problem with deafness.
Breed characteristics and personality
Because of heavy use in his youth, the Foxhound is ready to retire by seven or eight years of age. This is strictly a pack dog. He is gentle with children. He is a one-man dog.
He is courageous, energetic, pugnacious, untiring, good and obedient with his master. This breed is not recommended as a family dog, its use is strictly for hunting.
Uses
An untiring foxhunter. Able to trot with mounted hunters through bramble, marsh and countryside for five or six hours without stopping.
Web link
AKC English Foxhound page
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