English Foxhound
Hound Group · Purebred · The aristocrat's hound — centuries of English breeding forged into the perfect pack hunter
60–75 lbsWeight
21–25 inHeight
10–13 yrsLifespan
Very HighEnergy
Hound Group · Purebred · The aristocrat's hound — centuries of English breeding forged into the perfect pack hunter
Watch this video for a quick overview of the English Foxhound — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The English Foxhound is the original foxhound — a breed developed in England in the 16th and 17th centuries specifically for mounted fox hunting, where packs of hounds would pursue a fox across miles of countryside while riders on horseback followed. No breed in history has been more meticulously bred by a specific social class for a specific purpose: the English aristocracy maintained detailed stud books for Foxhound packs long before other breeds had any formal record-keeping at all. The Foxhound Kennel Stud Book, started in 1800, is one of the oldest canine registries in the world.
The English Foxhound is a study in athletic perfection — hard muscle, strong bone, excellent feet for covering ground at speed, and a coat of hard, close fur that sheds mud and water efficiently. They are sociable, pack-oriented dogs that thrive in the company of other dogs and are generally friendly with people, including children. However, they were bred to run 20–30 miles a day and are extraordinarily difficult to satisfy as house pets without serious daily exercise and stimulation. They remain one of the rarest AKC breeds in the United States.
Real English Foxhounds — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
English Foxhounds are known for being gentle at home but single-minded on the trail. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy breed, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
English Foxhounds can be trained with patience and consistency, though they may occasionally test boundaries. They are typically gentle and patient with children, making them a reliable family companion.
English Foxhounds are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
English Foxhounds have a dense double coat built for protection against the elements. They shed year-round with two major blow-out seasons in spring and fall. Regular brushing dramatically reduces the amount of hair around your home and keeps the coat healthy.
English Foxhounds are moderately trainable and respond well to patient, consistent positive reinforcement. They benefit from clear expectations and a calm, confident trainer who establishes routines early.
Keep sessions short — 10 to 15 minutes — and always end on a success. Enrolling in a puppy or adult obedience class provides structured learning and valuable socialization.
English Foxhounds are generally robust dogs but like all breeds they carry some genetic predispositions. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A English Foxhound fits well with families or individuals who can provide moderate daily exercise and consistent companionship. They adapt reasonably well to various living situations as long as their exercise and social needs are met. Not ideal for owners away from home for long hours without a pet care solution in place.
English Foxhounds need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a large-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Large-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your English Foxhound's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a English Foxhound is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a English Foxhound costs between $150–$300 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 8–12 year lifespan, a English Foxhound typically costs between $15,000–$28,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because English Foxhounds have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — English Foxhound crosses.
English Foxhound × Labrador. More trainable, affectionate family dog with hound stamina.
English Foxhound × Beagle. Compact, friendly, excellent nose — a natural size-down of the pack hound.
Two foxhound cousins — leaner, faster, tireless endurance runner.
English Foxhound × Pointer. Athletic, versatile, dual-purpose sporting dog.
English Foxhounds are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.