English Foxhound
Also known as Foxhound Inglés
Great Britain, Scent hounds
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 58–69 cm
- Weight
- 29–34 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–13 yrs
- Sociable
- Friendly
- Energetic
- Scent-driven
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a British pack hound bred to hunt foxes across country, valued for stamina, nose and a gift for working in company. It is large, strong and muscular, with a short, dense coat, usually in tricolour. It is seldom kept as a single pet, and is happiest with other hounds and plenty of space.
Temperament
Friendly, sociable and outgoing, generally good with other dogs. It is independent and can be stubborn, with a strong drive to follow a scent. It tends to do best with company and lots to do.
Exercise
Needs plenty of vigorous daily exercise, well over an hour, ideally with secure space to run. It must be kept on a lead where there is a scent to follow.
Grooming
The short, hard coat is simple: a rubber brush once a week removes loose hair, and a towel is enough after rain.
Care & wellbeing
Bred to run with a pack, it can be lonely on its own, so company and a secure paddock help. Keep it lean, as a trim hound runs better and lives more comfortably.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 31.5 kg adult- Water
- 1.3 L–1.9 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,490 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a English Foxhound
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A British scent hound bred for generations to hunt foxes in packs, with stamina to follow hounds on horseback. It is a sociable pack dog rather than a typical house pet, and is usually kept by hunts.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Veterinary health check
Not every English Foxhound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–13 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a English Foxhound right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a English Foxhound get?
Adult English Foxhounds typically stand about 58–69 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 29–34 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do English Foxhounds live?
Typically 10–13 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a English Foxhound need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a English Foxhound need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are English Foxhounds easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do English Foxhounds shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are English Foxhounds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a English Foxhound live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do English Foxhounds have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia. Not every English Foxhound is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Scent hounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1955