How is the American Foxhound different from the English Foxhound?

When English Foxhounds were brought to America in the sixteen-hundreds, breeders began crossing them with French and Irish hounds. The goal was to give the hounds better stamina so they could run longer distances. The result is today’s American Foxhound. Now a distinct breed, these hounds are bigger and faster than their English cousins.

These tan, black, and cream canines stand at about two feet and resemble an oversized beagle. Friendly, loveable pets, American Foxhounds need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. After all, they were bred to be hunters, so they have a strong pack instinct and prey drive. But when paired with an active family, American Foxhounds can make wonderful pets.

- Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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