English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is described by the AKC as sociable, affectionate, gentle, a member of the Hound Group, originally from England.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 24 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 60-75 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–13+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Sociable / Affectionate / Gentle [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 187 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The English Foxhound is an easygoing dog but does need plenty of daily exercise and outdoor activity. The breed is a good one for an active family with plenty of acreage. English Foxhounds are not recommended for city or apartment living, as their space will be too confined. [1]
Grooming
The English Foxhound's short, hard, dense, and glossy coat requires minimal maintenance. A weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or a hound glove will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best, and an occasional bath (using a gentle shampoo) can help keep him from having a doggy odor. The ears should be regularly inspected and cleaned if needed with soft gauze and an ear-cleaning solution'¿the dog's breeder or the veterinarian can recommend a good brand to use. [1]
Health issues to budget for
English Foxhounds are generally healthy dogs. There are several health considerations owners should be aware of; large and deep-chested breeds are susceptible to gastric dilatation-volvulus, or bloat, a sudden, life-threatening stomach condition. English Foxhound owners should learn what signs to look out for and what actions to take should they occur. Low-hanging ears such as the Foxhound's can be prone to infection, so the ears should be checked regularly. [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 English Foxhound in 1909. [1]
- It ranked No. 187 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 184 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “English hound.” [1]
- The AKC lists England 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)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 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 English Foxhounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-13 years.
How big does a English Foxhound get?
AKC breed information lists height 24 inches and weight 60-75 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a English Foxhound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the English 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.