Foxhound
The English Foxhound is one of Britain's most storied dog breeds, developed over centuries for the demanding work of hunting foxes across the countryside.
Bred to work in large packs, these dogs were carefully selected for their stamina, cooperative nature, powerful scenting ability, and distinctive deep voice used to communicate during the hunt.
29-32kg
Weight
Large
Size
13-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Foxhound
Today, they remain a striking sight, standing 58 to 64 centimetres tall and weighing 29 to 32 kilograms, with an athletic build and short, easy-care coat typically featuring the classic hound tricolour of black, white, and tan. In temperament, Foxhounds are genuinely sociable and good-natured dogs. Their pack heritage means they typically get along well with other dogs and greet people with genuine warmth and a wagging tail. However, potential owners should understand that this is an active, independent-minded breed that requires substantial daily exercise, well over two hours on most days, and a securely fenced space where they can run freely. The Foxhound's strong hunting instincts and occasional wilfulness mean that consistent training and patient handling are essential. While some hounds are rehomed from hunt kennels, they are best suited to experienced, very active owners who can provide the lifestyle these energetic dogs genuinely need.
Foxhound at a Glance
- Group
- Hound
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 29–32 kg
- Height
- 58–64 cm
- Lifespan
- 13–14 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- More than 2 hours per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Foxhound Temperament
The Foxhound is an active, alert and friendly breed with a good-natured temperament that makes it a warm and affectionate companion. Bred for life in a pack, it is sociable by nature and tends to be friendly and welcoming towards people, usually greeting strangers with a wagging tail. It is an energetic breed that requires plenty of daily exercise and benefits from having space to run. The Foxhound can be strong-willed and independent, so early training and consistent handling are important. It generally gets on well with other dogs, particularly in a multi-dog household. For owners who enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle, the Foxhound is a loyal and enthusiastic partner.
Foxhound Lifestyle
The Foxhound is a breed that needs a bigger home to thrive and is happiest with plenty of outdoor space at home. They tend to do best out in the countryside.
Dog Food for Foxhound
Top-rated foods for Large breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Foxhound
Foxhound Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Foxhound weighing around 31 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£5.36 - £5.71
Per month
£161 - £171
Per year
£1955 - £2083
Foxhound Characteristics
The Foxhound is an active breed that needs a lot of exercise and is highly trainable and learns new things fast. They are very patient and gentle with kids, but are fine alone for moderate amounts of time. The coat is reasonably straightforward to keep well-groomed and sheds steadily throughout the year. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Foxhound Pros & Cons
Pros
- Retired Foxhounds can make excellent companions in the right hands with patient, consistent training
- Well suited to homes with ample outdoor space and active owners
- Generally healthy, with fewer inherited conditions than many other breeds
- Naturally sociable and good with children when supervised
Cons
- Strong prey drive requires experienced handling and secure garden fencing
- Needs high levels of daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay settled
- A vocal breed, with a tendency to bark and howl
- Not usually the right fit for novice owners or smaller living spaces
