American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is a large impressive looking breed that closely resembles a Beagle in looks. 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. The strong, straight and well boned legs gave this breed immense speed and stamina.
The American Foxhound is a very old breed – older than America, the country it was named after. The American Foxhound breedhave evolved from the hunting dogs brought by Robert Brooke to the Crown Colony in 1650.
In Great Britain, these dogs were highly acclaimed for their excellent hunting abilities. The dogs were used by the British landed gentry to hunt foxes. In a fox hunt, hunters on horseback follow packs of American Foxhounds. Hunters will know if a prey is found by the change in the melodious barking of the hounds. New World settlers utilize the dog in the same manner. However, because of the ferocious tenacious nature, it was rumored that the dogs were utilized by the English military commanders to track and hunt Indians.
The English Foxhounds were crossed and re-crossed with the dogs of settlers from Ireland and France until a new breed that has adapted to the conditions of the new country has evolved. The American Foxhound, a versatile breed of dog was born.
The American Foxhound was actually developed to be a hunting dog. This dogs would love nothing more than to hunt. An ultra sensitive scenting ability, a remarkable staying power and a passionate desire to overpower a prey make this breed a notable hunter. An American Foxhound that has found an interesting scent will not let anything or anybody to stand in its way to bag the prey. 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.No wonder, the breed is highly valued as a hunting dog.
The breed’s excellent hunting prowess is basically the reason why these dogs are highly valued. However, apart from the hunting prowess, these dogs are valued as well for their loving and gentle nature. Highly energetic while hunting, this dog turns into a calm, gentle and sweet family companion. This breed 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.
Category: Articles
