American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is described by the AKC as sweet-tempered, independent, easy-going, a member of the Hound Group, originally from United States.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 22-25 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 11–13+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Sweet-Tempered / Independent / Easy-Going [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 188 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Foxhounds were bred specifically to spend long hours chasing after prey. That's why an American Foxhound needs at least a solid hour or two of exercise every day'¿if he doesn't get it, he may become bored and destructive. If they get all the activity they need, they can fit in pretty much anywhere. [1]
Grooming
The American Foxhound's handsome coat is short and lies close to the body. The coat's hard texture protects the dog from the underbrush he courses through while on the hunt'¿and the coat also happens to be extremely easy to take care of. A short, once-a-week session with a bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove is usually all that is needed. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The American Foxhound is typically a healthy breed, and a responsible breeder will test breeding stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia and thrombocytopathy, which is a blood disorder. Long-eared breeds can develop ear infections, and a Foxhound's ears should be checked regularly to remove foreign matter and avoid a buildup of wax. Regular brushing will keep the hound's teeth healthy as well. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the American Foxhound in 1886. [1]
- It ranked No. 188 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 181 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Foxhound.” [1]
- The AKC lists United States as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 1 recommended health screening for breeding dogs, such as No recommended health tests. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 5/5
Common questions
How long do American Foxhounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 11-13 years.
How big does a American Foxhound get?
AKC breed information lists height 22-25 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female) and weight 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a American Foxhound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the American Foxhound, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.