If we are to believe the tale of the American Foxhound, we would be looking at the dogs that have descended from the hunting dogs of George Washington. General Lafayette, the French general that fought in the American Revolution has given George Washington French Foxhounds. George Washington had an important role in the history of American Foxhounds as it was from his French Foxhounds that this breed has originated.
American Foxhounds were bred to hunt in packs thus present day dogs have lived and worked in the same manner their ancestors did. American Foxhounds are keen hunters famed for their musical voice that can be heard for miles. Because of a high prey drive, it would be very difficult for these dogs to call off once they have found a prey. These dogs will constantly bay while following a prey and once the animal is found and cornered, the vocalization will change to signal the human hunters that follow on horseback .
An American Foxhound is a handsome breed. Anyone watching a American Foxhound will be impressed by the dog's lean body that is covered by a short white coat that has tan and black patches, the wide and long ears, the tail that is carried moderately high and the brown or hazel colored large eyes with a gentle expression. American Foxhound is a large breed but despite the size, the dog can be gentle and mild mannered even with children. American Foxhounds are loyal, sweet and easy going dogs. Is it possible to turn this keen hunter into a placid home companion?
American Foxhounds were bred to hunt in large packs. It is therefore expected that these dogs would be dogs oriented and not human oriented. American Foxhounds have continued the way of life of their ancestors. These dogs are pack oriented thus they would be in their natural element if allowed to live, play and hunt with other dogs. American Foxhounds though can adapt to the life of a home companion.
Apartment living is not for an American Foxhound because of its high exercise requirements. This dog would be an ideal pet for an owner that loves to run and to jog. Being a hound, it would have the tendency to show the typical stubbornness of hounds thus an owner has to be able to handle the dog. These dogs are generally affectionate but they have to be socialized and to be obedience trained at an early age to tamper the innate stubbornness and to mold them into an ideal home companion.
