American Foxhound – A Versatile Dog Breed
American Foxhound – A Versatile Dog Breed
The American Foxhound bears a striking resemblance to the body build of a Beagle. The dog generally stands between 21 to 25 inches and weighs from 65 to 75 pounds. The streamlined athletic body is thickly covered with a short fur that ranges in color from tan and white, red and white and the impressive combination of black, tan and white. Well boned, straight and long legs give this breed its legendary speed.
The American Foxhound is believed to be in existence in the Crown Colony – long before it was given the name America. The breed originated from the pack of English hunting dogs that was brought to the Crown Colony by Robert Brooke in 1650.
In its country of origin, these dogs were acclaimed for being excellent hunters. The dogs were used by the British landed gentry to hunt foxes. Hunted in packs, the dogs will chase the prey while the hunters follow on horseback. A change in the deep melodious voice of the dog signifies that a prey is found. New World settlers utilize the dog in the same manner. American Foxhound is a ferocious breed thus it was rumored that the dog have been used by the colonizers to hunt Indians.
The American Foxhound was developed from the crossing of English hounds with the dogs of settlers from Ireland and France. This has resulted to the development of the American Foxhound.
The American Foxhound, first and foremost is a hunting dog. An American Foxhound would be in its element if it is chasing a prey. The breed is endowed with an excellent scenting ability, an impressive stamina and a courageous and intense drive. An American Foxhound is an intense hunter, once a prey is sighted, the dog will not stop until the animal is taken. As the breed name suggests, foxes are the usual prey of these dogs although these hunting dogs will not pass up the chance to run after any animal.That the dog will be highly valued by hunter is a given fact.
American Foxhounds are highly valued for their excellent hunting abilities. These courageous hunters though have a sweet and loving personality. American Foxhounds have gained a reputation for being courageous and tenacious hunters but in the company of its human family the dogs turn into gentle well mannered companions. This breed of dogs is not a one man dog. These hunting dogs form a strong bond with the family but these dogs are noted to bond closely with the children.
