Imagine a sunny afternoon in the rural realms of England. You are on top of a hill, feeling the cool breeze on your face; the smell of fresh cut grass is hanging in the air. Suddenly, you hear a distinct sound echoing through the valley. It’s not a bird, not the rustling leaves, but a clamorous symphony of howls and barks. You look down towards the source of this harmonious uproar and you see them – a group of splendid dogs elegantly trotting, their coats of black, brown, and white gleaming in the sun. They are English Foxhounds, an amazingly energetic, amiable, and intelligent breed of dogs.
Now, when it comes to picking a dog for the first time, an English Foxhound might not be the most obvious choice. Yet it is precisely their uncommonness that makes them worth considering. In this article, we will delve into the world of these dignified hounds to answer the question – Is an English Foxhound a good first dog?
It’s important to clarify from the outset that, like humans, every dog breed has a personal character. Some traits, however, are prominently embedded in specific dog breeds, and English Foxhounds are no exception.
Traditionally used for hunting in large packs, English Foxhounds are born with a strong pack instinct. This means they naturally get along well with other dogs, they’re extremely friendly and sociable. So if you already have other pets or if you’re considering getting more in the future, an English Foxhound could be an excellent choice as they’re likely to form a close bond and get along well with their fellow pet siblings.
As hounds bred for long hunts, English Foxhounds are full of boundless energy, endurance, and agility. These athletic dogs love nothing more than a good run or play session and are happiest when they’re able to stretch their legs. If you enjoy outdoor activities and have enough space at home, or have access to a local park, these dogs will be the perfect companions for long hikes, runs, or just playtime at the park.
Children and English Foxhounds can be a match made in heaven. The foxhounds not only have the energy to keep up with even the most energetic of youngsters but their true pack nature means they are often protective and gentle with younger members of their “pack”. That being said, it’s always essential to supervise any interaction between an animal and children to ensure safety for both.
Bear in mind, English Foxhounds, with their rich history of running miles across fields in pursuit of foxes, have an inherent need for physical activity beyond the average run-of-the-mill pet dogs. Therefore, an idle or sedentary lifestyle won’t suit them. They are perfect for active individuals or families.
Their pack-hunting heritage also lends English Foxhounds the ability to follow instructions well. After all, these dogs were bred for coordinated hunting efforts, which required them to obey commands. With a bit of patient training, English Foxhounds can pick up a variety of commands and tricks.
However, it’s essential to note that while this breed is massively intelligent, they are not as eager to please their owners as other breeds might be. Training an English Foxhound will require a bit of patience and creativity. But with positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats or praises, this breed can indeed be trained quite efficiently and effectively.
When it comes to their health, English Foxhounds are known for their robustness. With fewer genetic diseases than many other breeds, these dogs tend to live relatively long and healthy lives, given the right care and regular check-ups.
Every prospective dog owner should know that English Foxhounds are not apartment dogs. They do best in places where they have a large safe space to roam and run. If they are confined in a small area, their hunting instincts could lead to unwanted behaviour like excessive barking, digging, or chewing.
In terms of grooming, these dogs are relatively low maintenance. Their short coats need only occasional brushing to keep them looking their best, and they do not have the same ‘doggy odor’ that afflicts some other breeds.
In conclusion, the decision to adopt or purchase any pet should not be taken lightly. It involves a commitment to their health, well-being, and happiness. The English Foxhound, with its boundless energy, friendly demeanor and herculean endurance, is an excellent choice for individuals who are avid outdoor enthusiasts and want an active, sociable, and relatively low-maintenance pet.
This extraordinary breed embodies loyalty, friendliness, and the enduring spirit of man’s longstanding partnership with dogs. For those willing to take up the pleasures and responsibilities that these dogs bring, acquiring an English Foxhound as a first pet could prove to be a decision well-made and truly rewarding!
