When it comes to pet dogs, English Foxhounds are the marathoners of the dog world. The breed got its initial start in England for precisely what their name suggests: fox hunting. Even today, they are known for their incredible endurance and love for long distances, making them excellent companions for active families.
Often, when people are considering adopting a new pet, they have a few basic thoughts in their mind: size, temperament, and of course, health. The question on everyone’s tongue is, “Is the English Foxhound a healthy dog?”
Let’s dive in.
Surprisingly, English Foxhounds are one of the healthiest breeds around. Although no breed is completely free from health issues, this breed has fewer known health problems compared to others. Even so, there are a few conditions they may be more prone to, and this is where we’ll focus our attention.
First up, we dive into the ticker – the heart. English Foxhounds, due to their high activity levels, inherently, have a lower risk of heart disease compared to more sedentary breeds. However, no breed is immune, and responsible breeders always test their dogs for any signs of heart disorders.
Hip and elbow dysplasia can creep up in the English Foxhound. These painful conditions involve a malformation of the joints and can cause arthritis and lameness. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.
Although rare, another condition that can present in English Foxhounds is renal disease or kidney disease. These trusty early detection methods can help manage the disease if it does manifest. It’s essential to lookout for changes in your pet’s behavior, like increased thirst or urination, which can suggest kidney problems.
Insider tip: annual vet visits are integral to maintaining your English Foxhound’s health. They will not only help detect early signs of disease but can also ensure your Foxhound always has immunity from common doggy diseases.
As for maintaining your English Foxhound’s health? Keep them active and maintain a healthy diet. Known for their athleticism, English Foxhounds will thank you for regular long walks, runs, or games of fetch. Not enough exercise can lead to obesity, which brings another set of health complications.
Just like humans, maintaining a balanced diet for your English Foxhound is crucial in keeping them healthy. A cave-like setting doesn’t suit them. A high-quality dog food—properly portioned, of course—is the way to go, supplemented with your vet’s advice.
Additionally, due to their long, droopy ears, English Foxhounds are more susceptible to ear infections. Regular checking and cleaning of their ears is crucial in preventing these from manifesting and becoming a bigger problem.
While English Foxhounds are indeed a healthier breed than most, they’re not invincible. As loving pet owners, it’s our responsibility to ensure we do everything we can to grant them a healthy, happy, and long life.
It may sound a bit daunting, managing your pet’s health, but here is the aspect many owners of English Foxhounds adore: these dogs are generally a hearty lot, and the few health quirks they might be prone to can be managed quite effectively with proactive care. They want to be your loyal running companions for many years, willing and able to join you on your fitness journey.
If you have plenty of open space, love outdoor activities, and want a companion to share these moments, introducing an English Foxhound into your life could be hugely rewarding. Their hardy nature, combined with the correct care, can ensure you’ll have a healthy and active friend by your side.
So to summarize: Is the English Foxhound a healthy dog? The answer is a resounding yes. As with any breed, there may be health challenges you may face, but given their active nature and generally robust health history, an English Foxhound stands a strong chance of being a long-lived, loving member of your family.
In the end, remember this: all dogs, no matter what breed, benefit from a good diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care. Be sure these three aspects are covered, and your furry friend is sure to feel like a lottery winner lucking out on an owner like you.
