Looking for a new four-legged member to add to your family? How about adding an aristocrat from a line of distinguished hunters that has roamed English countryside for hundreds of years, working closely with humans since the late 16th century? Step aside cats and bulldogs. Let’s talk about the English Foxhound, an elegant, friendly, and energetic breed that you may not have heard much about.
A blend of Greyhound, Fox Terrier, and Bulldog, the English Foxhound is a unique breed of dog that exudes not just unparalleled charm, but also an impressive level of friendliness and adaptability. These traits are just some of the reasons why the breed has remained in the hearts of dog owners for centuries.
Despite their history of hunting and tracking, English Foxhounds are much more than hunting dogs. They are also wonderful companions that are known for being social, gentle, and loving. To put it simply, they’re a bundle of joy that would make an excellent addition to any household.
However, before you welcome an English Foxhound into your family, there are a few things you should know to ensure they will fit perfectly into your lifestyle.
1. A Delight to be Around: Households with other dogs and children may find having an English Foxhound a pleasure. This is due to the breed’s inherent friendliness and tolerance. They’re not known for aggressive behavior, and generally, get along well with other animals, particularly dogs. It is, however, worth noting that they may occasionally show an interest in smaller pets due to their hunting heritage.
2. Energy to Spare: These pooches are geared up with an abundance of energy. Therefore, they need to have lots of daily exercise to keep them happy. This is because of their breeding for long hunts, which means inactivity can often lead to boredom or weight gain. Regular trips to the park, backyard play sessions, and even joining you on a jog can keep an English Foxhound in good shape – both physically and mentally.
3. Training is a Must: Their high energy levels and natural hunting instincts mean English Foxhounds require training. This should ideally begin at a young age to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults. And while they are intelligent creatures, their degrees of stubbornness are similarly high. This can sometimes make training a bit difficult, but with patience, consistency, and lots of positive reinforcement, they can pick up all manners and commands efficiently.
4. Teddies with a Bark: English Foxhounds love human company. They were bred to hunt in packs, and this pack mentality means they thrive on interaction and can be quite vocal. They are known for their unique deep, loud barks and melodious howls, especially when they are bored, which might not be a catch for those looking for a quiet pet or living in apartments.
When it comes to diet, grooming, and medical care, English Foxhounds are relatively low maintenance compared to other breeds. However, they can be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia and kidney disease, so it’s crucial to keep regular veterinary check-ups.
In short, if you’ve got an active lifestyle and plenty of time to devote towards playtime and training, then an English Foxhound might be the perfect fit for you. Their loving nature and dogged determination can be endearing. They’re not just hunting dogs; they’re family dogs as well. And to answer the question “Is an English Foxhound a friendly dog?” An English Foxhound is more than friendly; it is an affable, reliable companion, all rolled into one.
So, next time you’re thinking about becoming a pet parent, remember the English Foxhound. You might just find that this lesser-known breed becomes your best friend. Its charm, friendliness, and overall jolly demeanor have a knack of winning hearts and filling homes with delight. Embrace an English Foxhound, and you embrace a bit of English history.
