Appearance

A large, handsome hound, The American Foxhound is a bit taller and lighter than his English cousin. The front legs are long and very straight. The ears are broad and pendant, are set close to the head and frame the face. The eyes of the American foxhound are brown or hazel in color, are large, wide set, soft and have the classic gentle, pleading expression of all hound dogs. The short, hard coat may be any color. The head is long with a slightly domed skull. The tail makes an upward curve, like a sickle.

Size and Weight

Males typically stand from 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder, and females stand slightly smaller, from 21 to 24 inches. Males weigh in from 65 to 70 pounds, while females generally weigh 60 to 65 pounds.

Coat and Color

American Foxhounds have a hard-textured, medium length coat that lies close to the body. The coat is designed to protect the dog from briars, burrs and brush that are encountered in the hunting field. “No good hound is a bad color,” is an old saying, and it's true. Color is of little importance by breed standard and the coat comes in many colors. All colors and markings are acceptable.

Grooming Needs

Grooming the American Foxhound is a breeze. They shed lightly year round, but weekly brushing with a hound mitt is enough to keep loose hair under control. Only bathe as needed, when the dog is dirty or begins to smell. Individual dogs will determine how often bathing is necessary.

Check the ears on a regular basis for signs of wax buildup, irritation or infection. Clean the ears with a cotton ball and a veterinarian-approved cleanser. Trim nails once per month, if the dog does not wear down the toenails naturally outdoors. Brush teeth weekly (or more) to prevent tartar buildup, promote gum health, and keep bad breath at bay.