Foxhound Dog Owners Guide: How to Manage and Care for Your Foxhound

Foxhound Introduction

When it comes to choosing the perfect canine family member to add to your household, it can be a tough decision. With so many different breeds to choose from, it’s a good idea to narrow down what you’re looking for in a dog. Do you want a smaller dog? Maybe you want a dog who is good with kids. A dog who loves to go on runs may be important. Whatever traits you are hoping to find, being aware of the breeds that are known for these characteristics is always a good idea.

If you are looking for a loving, energetic, and smart dog, a Foxhound may be for you. These dogs are well known and loved for their ability to get along with other animals and kids given their gentle tendencies. Hunters and outdoor lovers greatly enjoy having a Foxhound join them on their various adventures.

One of the most important things to note about Foxhounds is their high energy level. They do great with other dogs and typically need at least one other canine companion to run around with on a daily basis. If they are the only dog in a home, their human family members will need to fill this need for exercise as playing with other dogs would.

Since Foxhounds are so active, they typically need about one to two hours of physical activity per day. They love being outdoors and do best with a very large yard to run around in, or even a few acres to explore regularly. Since they are a hound breed, their nose is very strong and they love to follow wherever different scents may lead them.

Foxhounds are also known for howling. Their voice is known to be musical and can carry for miles, meaning city living isn’t the best option for them. If you live in a rural area with ample land, a Foxhound is a perfect dog for you. The last thing any dog owner wants is to bother their neighbors with a loud pup.

Foxhounds are very smart dogs who are typically sweet and easygoing, though they may have moments of independence and stubbornness. This breed is meant to hunt with very little human instruction as they have in the past, meaning they may not understand why they need to do things as their owners tell them. Nevertheless, with a little training and consistency, Foxhounds can be very obedient and enjoyable when joining your family.

Foxhounds are short-haired dogs with smooth fur that come in a wide variety of colors and are relatively easy to maintain. Foxhound fur has a hard texture that helps to protect them from brush and briars when they are in the field. This breed doesn’t require much grooming and bathing compared to others. Once a week brushing with a firm bristle brush will remove dirt and promote skin oils that are essential for a healthy coat. Foxhounds only need to be bathed when they seem to have picked up a stink or they have gotten into something messy. This breed is not known for excessive shedding or being hypoallergenic, so you can expect some time to be spent cleaning up dog hair, but not an extreme amount.

One great thing about Foxhounds is that they can be indoor or outdoor dogs. When they have a good shelter and another canine companion, Foxhounds are happy living outdoors and exploring the land as they wish. If you don’t have another dog, it’s best to keep your Foxhound indoors with your family so that they don’t become lonely.

If you are looking for a dog to guard you and your family, a Foxhound is a great contender. Though they are relatively friendly, Foxhounds will alert you of potential threats. You can expect them to be warm with strangers that you welcome into your home but on the watch for those that may approach unexpectedly.

Foxhounds are very adaptable for different kinds of families. They are very patient and gentle, meaning a home with children would be a good fit for a Foxhound. Younger couples who can regularly exercise a Foxhound would also be an ideal home. Single people would be great owners for Foxhounds who can give them a lot of attention and activity. Homes with other dogs are ideal for a Foxhound, though they can also be the only dog within a home. Having a cat isn’t a problem for Foxhounds as they usually get along well. No matter the family dynamic, a Foxhound will fit right in.

Foxhound History

With Foxhound history, it’s a pretty clear story of where they came from and how this breed made its way into the hearts and homes of so many. Since the Foxhound breed is purebred, it’s easier to trace back their roots. With various crosses with different European hounds, the American Foxhound we know and love today was developed.

The story of the Foxhound breed begins overseas in the UK with the English Foxhound. These English Foxhounds were brought over to the US with early European settler arrivals. Specifically, a man named Robert Brooks introduced the Foxhound to the colonial United States. Upon spending more time in the US, people realized that given the very different landscape, Foxhounds would need longer legs to better keep up when hunting and covering the land. To achieve this, they were bred with other various European hounds until the American Foxhound was born.

George Washington is believed to have had a major part in the creation of the modern Foxhound. In 1785, George Washington began to work toward the creation of American Foxhounds when he owned both French hounds and English hounds. He received the French hounds from the French aristocrat and American military commander Marquis de Lafayette. This new mixed breed hound was later crossed with Irish hounds in search of a faster dog that could successfully hunt foxes in nearby areas.

The home states of the American Foxhound are Maryland and Virginia, where the modern Foxhound was first seen. They received their American Kennel Club recognition in 1886 and later became the Virginia state dog in 1966. Seven foxhounds were shown at the first Westminster Kennel Club event in 1877, but it was not until April 4, 1963, at Baton Rouge, La., that a representative of the breed was named Best in Show at an all‐breed event.

The history of the Foxhound is rich in hunting, given that is what their main purpose was for so many years. Along with hunting, Foxhounds have ample different abilities, both physical and mental. They were bred in hopes of having a stronger sense of smell than their English cousins, one thing they most definitely obtained. All of these taller, lighter, faster, and stronger sense adaptations better suited the hunt and terrain of their new home in the United States.

Nowadays, Foxhounds can be divided into four different categories. Field trial hounds are known for their high speeds and competitive nature. Slow-trailing hounds, on the other hand, are known for their musical baying and are most commonly used for hunting foxes on foot. Drag hounds, also known as trail hounds, often race or hunt using a lure rather than real, live prey. The final type, called pack hounds, are used by hunters on horseback and travel in large packs of 15 to 20 dogs.

All of these types of Foxhounds have various strengths and perform better at some tasks than others. Overall, Foxhounds are incredibly smart, agile, and able to complete some impressive tasks.

Foxhound Intelligence

When it comes to intelligence, the Foxhound ranks very highly. This is part of the reason that they have been trusted for such an extensive amount of time with hunting and racing. They are easily able to learn agility courses, join their owners on a hunting trip or even catch prey on their own without human direction.

Typically smart dog breeds are known for being extremely easy to train, but with the Foxhound, this isn’t known to be the case. Despite being very smart, Foxhounds aren’t exactly eager to please. They have lived for many years hunting and navigating the world without human direction, and they still feel by nature that they can do as they want rather than as humans want. This can make them rather stubborn during the training process, which can be discouraging to some Foxhound owners.

Though training isn’t a Foxhound’s strong suit, they can still become obedient and well-mannered dogs. It’s important to focus on positive reinforcement when training a Foxhound rather than punishment. Using treats, praise and pets are some of the best ways to motivate a Foxhound during training. Harsh words and actions may cause them to not want to participate in training at all.

Obedience training is strongly recommended for Foxhounds to ensure that they are enjoyable and friendly as they grow older. This type of training can be done in a professional environment or at home. No matter how you choose to do so, be sure to be consistent for the best results.

Cognitive Health of Foxhounds

As stated before, Foxhounds are very smart dogs. Their years of hunting, learning new landscapes and performing different jobs have all been thanks to their high intelligence levels. For such a smart dog breed, cognitive health is especially important. Without healthy cognitive functioning, Foxhounds wouldn’t be able to work alongside their owners or pack to accomplish the things that they love to do.

Unfortunately for both humans and dogs, aging is an inevitable part of life, and this aging process is commonly accompanied by impairment of cognitive functioning. While some dogs may experience more severe cognitive impairment than others as they age, it’s important to know the signs of this process and how it can impact your Foxhound’s life.

Canine Dementia

One of the most common cognitive health issues seen in Foxhounds is canine dementia. Also called canine cognitive dysfunction, this condition is seen in Foxhound adults who typically are 11 years or older. This condition is never seen in younger Foxhounds because it’s caused by components of the aging process. Specifically, plaque buildup in the brain that causes canine dementia comes from an accumulation of abnormal proteins. This buildup results in nerve damage, which impairs cognitive functioning and is recognized as canine dementia.

Canine dementia symptoms can often be written off as typical aging behaviors, which can make obtaining a diagnosis for this condition difficult. These symptoms usually have a slow onset, which can cause their relation to one another to go unnoticed. Typical symptoms of canine dementia in Foxhounds can include memory loss, forgetting learned behaviors, irritability, disregard for household rules and expectations, and impaired motor skills.

It’s very common for canine dementia to overlap with other conditions. Foxhounds with canine dementia may also have diabetes, cancer, arthritis, or kidney disorders. Because of these common other conditions, symptoms of canine dementia may be blamed on these known health issues rather than recognized as symptoms of a different cognitive condition.

Canine dementia is not an inherited disease, meaning that Foxhounds are not more likely to develop this condition than any other breed. All breeds have an equal risk of developing canine dementia as they age. The only dogs that seem to be more likely to experience canine dementia are spayed females and dogs over nine years old, regardless of breed.

Canine dementia can impact the life of a Foxhound in a variety of ways. Foxhounds who are experiencing canine dementia may become disoriented or confused more often than they used to before this condition developed. Foxhounds who are experiencing canine dementia may also have a more difficult time when finding toys or treats that they have dropped. They might even stop reacting to some of their favorite toys when you bring them out, where they would have usually become excited before this condition developed. All of these changes caused by canine dementia can impact the life of a Foxhound who is experiencing this cognitive condition.

Foxhounds with canine dementia can still live fulfilling and happy lives despite the impacts of this condition. Ensuring that your Foxhound is still doing all of the things that they love, such as exploring the outdoors and spending time with you, is the best way to provide them the best life that you can despite their canine dementia.

Unfortunately, there are no known treatments that can reverse this condition. Diet has been noted as one of the most promising ways to slow the progression of canine dementia in Foxhounds and all other dogs. Foods that have been specially formulated for senior dogs include extra antioxidants. Some of these antioxidants can include vitamin E, vitamin C, L-carnitine, alpha-lipoic acid, and carotenoids. In addition to antioxidants, senior dog foods are also formulated with additional omega-3 fatty acids. All of these agents are known to help improve brain function in dogs with or without canine dementia. Including these agents in your Foxhound’s diet is a promising way to ensure they maintain healthy brain function and combat canine dementia as they grow older.

Brain stimulation is another very promising way to prevent canine dementia in Foxhounds. Dog puzzles and food bowls that make Foxhounds work to obtain treats can help them use their brain and keep them sharp. Though canine dementia is only seen in older dogs, using these preventative methods with younger Foxhounds is a great way to keep them cognitively healthy as they grow older.

Foxhound Stress

Stress can impact both dogs and humans, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. Some dogs may be more prone to stress due to loud noises, while others may be more prone to stress that is caused by confusing commands. Identifying the common causes of stress for your Foxhound is the best way to reduce this experience and provide them with the healthiest and happiest life possible.

Stress is an inevitable part of life that all dogs, including Foxhounds, will experience. Reducing the amount of stress that your Foxhound feels is the best way to keep them healthy and avoid the unwanted behaviors that it can cause.

Foxhounds are very smart dogs who know what to expect from their owners and environments. Because of this, inconsistency can be a very common cause of stress for Foxhounds. Foxhounds and other dogs appreciate schedules and rules. They like to know when to expect certain activities and how they are expected to behave. Though Foxhounds can’t tell time, they still have an internal clock that keeps them used to doing certain activities at specific times. When these schedules change or aren’t followed, it can cause stress within your Foxhound. Sticking to specific schedules and activities throughout the day is a great way to prevent stress within Foxhounds.

Training can also be inconsistent, which can be another cause of stress for Foxhounds. For example, if your Foxhound is sometimes allowed to jump on visitors, but not always, this can be confusing for them. They may feel stressed about whether or not they will get in trouble for certain behaviors. Setting a clear set of rules and unaccepted behaviors is the best way to avoid this stress. Being consistent in schedules, rules, and expectations will allow your Foxhound to avoid becoming stressed out by their environment.

Foxhounds are highly intelligent dogs, and with this trait of intelligence comes a need to be stimulated. One of the most common causes of stress in Foxhounds is lack of mental stimulation. Foxhounds are very smart and active dogs, meaning they don’t like to sit around a lot. They prefer to be busy and focused on a task. Sitting in the home all day without anything to do can make them feel stressed.

One of the best ways to keep your Foxhound stimulated is through puzzle-like toys or feeder bowls. These toys typically have a treat inside that your Foxhound will have to try and get. During this process, they will use their brain to find different strategies to try and obtain the treat. In doing so, their brain will be very busy and keep them occupied. Feeder bowls, on the other hand, have many divots and gaps that their food falls into. Rather than just taking bites until they are done, they will have to work to get to their food. Doing so will keep them stimulated as they find new ways to reach their food. Feeder bowls also have digestive health benefits on top of being a preventer of stress.

Socialization is another great way to stimulate your Foxhound and keep them from becoming unnecessarily stressed. Meeting new dogs and people will keep them busy and thinking as they try to learn more about who they are encountering. This can easily be done when out and about and will also help minimize nervous behaviors that may arise in Foxhound puppies and adults who aren’t regularly socialized. Given how adorable Foxhound puppies and adults are, they are commonly approached by strangers outside. To make sure this isn’t a stressful situation for them, be sure to socialize your Foxhound as much as you can. Dog park visits, a daily walk, and other outings are easy ways to let your Foxhound meet new people, become comfortable around them, and keep their brain stimulated. All components of these activities will help prevent stress and keep your Foxhound as happy as it possibly can be.

When it comes to Foxhound stress, it’s important to remember that they are going to experience this more than once in their life. The best way to deal with it is to identify the cause of their stress and try to normalize it. Stimulation and consistency are great ways to avoid Foxhound stress. With some trial and error, you can help your Foxhound live a low-stress, enjoyable life.

Anxiety and Foxhounds

Anxiety is another thing that your Foxhound is very likely to experience more than once in their life. Like stress, anxiety can be triggered by a variety of things. Causes of anxiety can differ depending on the specific dog. Some dogs may be anxious about being left alone, while others may become anxious when they are around new people or animals.

No matter what causes your Foxhound to have anxiety, getting to the bottom of this experience is the best way to minimize their anxiety. With anxiety, life may not be as enjoyable for you or your Foxhound as it could be. Thankfully, there are a variety of ways to minimize anxiety in a natural, healthy way. Finding the strategy that works best for your Foxhound may take some trial and error, but with time you will be able to find a successful anxiety management plan.

Some common signs that your Foxhound is feeling anxious include pacing and restlessness. If you notice your Foxhound doing laps around the yard or your home, they may be feeling anxious. Whining and barking can be another indication of anxiety within Foxhounds. They may do so to try and vocally communicate their anxious state to their owner. One of the most obvious signs of anxiety in a Foxhound is an unwillingness to eat. Foxhounds that have been avoiding eating a full meal may be doing so because they are too anxious to stomach any food and should be taken to the vet immediately.

Anxious Foxhounds may also scratch and bite at their skin, causing hot spots. This can affect their skin coat and health in a negative way and even cause fur loss. If you notice your Foxhound chewing their skin when they are anxious, be sure to bring this up to your vet.

Anxiety can affect the lives of Foxhounds by making daily activities less enjoyable. When feeling anxious, walks and outings may become more stressful than fun for Foxhounds. They may be feeling concerned about their surroundings rather than enjoying being out and about with their owner. In addition, being outside and exploring their yard may become a negative experience when a Foxhound is feeling anxious. If they are more concerned about where their owner is than the things that they can discover, a Foxhound may not want to go outside at all.

Anxiety can be treated in a variety of ways. Brain stimulation is a great way to keep your Foxhound busy and avoid anxiety. Puzzle toys, feeder bowls, and socialization are great ways to keep your Foxhound focused on something productive and minimize anxiety. In addition to activities, various supplements have been shown to have a positive effect on reducing anxiety in Foxhounds. CBD is an increasingly popular supplement used for anxiety with dogs of all breeds. This naturally occurring compound helps to calm Foxhounds in a way that doesn’t affect their health. Dogs who get anxious during fireworks, such as on the Fourth of July, or who have bad separation anxiety commonly take CBD. This supplement is known to be one of the most successful in treating anxiety in both humans and dogs. Be sure to check with your vet before beginning any new supplements with your Foxhound.

Separation Anxiety

The most common type of anxiety for a Foxhound to experience is separation anxiety. This type of anxiety occurs when a dog has a very strong bond with its owner and doesn’t do well with being apart from them. Many breeds of dogs are more prone to this than some others, including Foxhounds. Foxhounds who are only dogs in a household and don’t have other canine companions living with them may be more likely to experience separation anxiety.

Foxhounds who are experiencing separation anxiety may chew at their skin or howl when their owner is away. This can be distressing for an owner, nearby neighbors, and the Foxhounds themselves. Brain stimulation, supplements, and even crate training can be a good way to combat separation anxiety.

Crate training provides Foxhounds with a safe, quiet place to retreat to when they are feeling anxious. This type of training can be done with Foxhound puppies or Foxhound adults. Be sure not to lock your Foxhound in their crate until they begin to choose to go in on their own so that they don’t make a negative association with their crate. Different Foxhounds may respond better or worse to various anxiety management strategies. Be sure to give a few different ones a try to see to which one your Foxhound responds best.

Foxhound Allergies

Allergies can affect dogs in a variety of ways. They can experience a variety of different allergies including food allergies, flea allergies, and skin allergies. While it’s possible for all breeds to experience allergies, some are more prone to them than others. It’s important to remember that just because a breed is prone to a condition, doesn’t mean it’s inevitable. Many dogs will go their entire lives without experiencing a condition to which their breed is prone.

Skin Allergies

Unfortunately, Foxhounds are very prone to allergies, especially skin allergies. These allergies can affect their lives in a variety of ways. Skin allergies are caused when a Foxhound comes into contact with a seemingly harmless substance, such as pollen, grass, or dust. While these substances aren’t innately harmful, the Foxhound immune system sees them as a threat. The immune system will then attack the substance, called an allergen, which triggers an allergic reaction. Since there are so many possible allergens in a Foxhound’s environment, pinpointing the exact one that they are allergic to can be difficult. Allergy testing that is performed by your vet is the best way to narrow down the exact cause of their allergic reactions.

Allergic reactions in dogs look different from human allergic reactions. Human allergic reactions typically include sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and even hives. For dogs such as Foxhounds, allergic reactions consist of itchy skin and even ear infections. A Foxhound who is experiencing an allergic reaction may scratch their skin repetitively. They may rub up against furniture or carpet in an attempt to scratch their itch. Licking or biting their paws and other areas of their body can be another indication of skin allergies. Even repetitive ear infections that seem to always come back after treatment can be because of allergies. If you notice any of these symptoms in your Foxhound, be sure to get them checked out by a vet for allergies.

These allergy symptoms can be very uncomfortable for a Foxhound and even distressing. A Foxhound with allergies may feel like they have one itch, or many, that can never be fully relieved. This may cause them to become stressed or even lethargic because of their immense discomfort. Foxhounds with allergy symptoms that lead to lethargy may no longer enjoy the things that they love to do because of this condition.

Ear infections can be another worrisome condition caused by skin allergies. These can be very painful for your Foxhound and impact their daily life if they continue to develop. To make sure that your Foxhound is living their healthiest life possible, be sure to keep an eye out for possible skin allergy symptoms.

While skin allergies can lead to discomfort, pain, and itchiness, they won’t shorten the life expectancy of your Foxhound. Foxhounds with skin allergies can still live normal, happy lives with their owners. There are a variety of ways to prevent and minimize allergy symptoms to make sure that they are healthy and happy. Treatments provided by your vet are one of the best ways to beat skin allergies, though you can still combat them at home.

One of the best ways to reduce symptoms of skin allergies is through supplementation and diet. Omega-3 fatty acids have shown to be a good way to combat Foxhound skin allergies when added to their diet. These fatty acids help to minimize or even eliminate allergy-related itching by reducing skin inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids can be added to Foxhound diets with specialized foods and supplements, including fish oil. As always, be sure to consult with your vet before beginning any supplementation.

In addition to dietary changes, specialized shampoos can be beneficial when reducing symptoms of skin allergies. Given how common skin allergies are within many breeds of dogs, shampoos specifically formulated for this condition are easy to find in your local pet store. These shampoos include ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and tea tree oil, which are known to reduce inflammation and itching by soothing the skin. If you are dealing with Foxhound skin allergies, consider adding this into their bathing schedule. Be sure to follow recommended bathing amounts and don’t bathe your Foxhound too often as this can lead to dry skin and worsen allergy symptoms.

Skin allergies can be a daunting and difficult condition for any Foxhound and its owner to navigate. Thanks to a variety of treatments and remedies available, you and your Foxhound can still live a healthy and happy life together despite skin allergies.

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Foxhound Gut Health

Gut health is an extremely important component of your Foxhound’s overall health. A large portion of the immune system is housed in the stomach. This means that if your Foxhound’s gut isn’t healthy, its immune system may not be functioning to its fullest potential. The last thing that any owner wants is for their Foxhound to be less able to fight off viruses and illnesses because of stomach health issues!

Knowing the most common gut health issues for a Foxhound to face is the best way to identify symptoms and get treatment in a timely manner. As always, just because a Foxhound is more prone to certain symptoms doesn’t mean that they are inevitable. Many Foxhounds will go their entire lives without experiencing any gut health issues at all.

Bloat

One of the most common gut health issues to affect Foxhounds is called dog bloat. Also known as Gastric Dilatation Volvulus or GDV, this condition can be fatal if left untreated, highlighting the importance of keeping an eye out for potential symptoms. Bloat typically affects large dog breeds such as Foxhounds, though no breed is immune to this condition despite a smaller size. Many things including size can contribute to the likelihood of a Foxhound experiencing GDV.

There are no known exact causes of gastric dilatation volvulus, though many factors are believed to contribute to this condition. Ingesting excessive amounts of food or water at once has been shown to lead to gastric dilatation volvulus. This highlights the importance of ensuring that your dog is receiving a recommended amount of food per day. Another factor that can lead to the development of gastric dilatation volvulus is delayed bowel movements. Always be sure to let your Foxhound outside on a regular basis and monitor how often they are having bowel movements and urinating. Excess exercise can also be a cause of gastric dilatation volvulus in Foxhounds, so be sure to keep up with recommended exercise for various ages, sizes, and breeds.

While the amount of food fed can lead to gastric dilatation volvulus, so can how often your Foxhound is fed. Feeding your dog more than once per day makes them much less likely to develop GDV. Experts recommend that adult dogs are fed at least twice a day, while puppies should be fed three or more times per day to prevent gastric dilatation volvulus.

Similar to bloating in humans, gastric dilatation volvulus causes your Foxhound’s stomach to obtain a very high amount of pressure and to expand because of it. Specifically, gastric dilatation volvulus is caused by a Foxhound’s stomach becoming twisted at both ends from spinning around itself. When this twisting happens, there is a blockage of gas, liquids, and other stomach contents that need to escape. Due to the blockage, this buildup will lead to your Foxhound’s stomach expanding similar to a balloon, which is called dilatation. This pressure and backup are what causes your Foxhound’s stomach to appear larger than normal and feel hard when pressed on, almost as if they had swallowed a bowling ball.

The most common symptom of gastric dilatation volvulus is a hard, bloated abdomen area within a Foxhound. If your Foxhound’s stomach seems larger than normal, check to see if it is relatively solid when you touch or poke it. If so, be sure to get your Foxhound to the vet as soon as possible.

Attempting to vomit with little to no success can be another sign of gastric dilatation volvulus within Foxhounds. Bloat will typically cause your Foxhound to have a difficult time laying down and becoming comfortable. Because of this inability to get comfortable, your Foxhound may begin to pace or become restless. Excess saliva, breathing changes, and heart rate changes can all be indicators of possible bloat.

Bloat can be fatal if left untreated, but once you have successfully managed this condition, your Foxhound will have a normal life expectancy. Bloat must be treated by a vet and cannot be treated at home, though preventative measures can be taken by an owner.

Slowing down rates of eating with feeder bowls is a great way to prevent bloat in Foxhounds. Following recommended amounts of daily food, water and exercise is another promising way to prevent bloat. Finally, feeding your Foxhound more than once per day is a good way to avoid bloat development. With these preventative measures and a reliable vet, you can ensure your Foxhound lives a long and healthy life despite their risk for bloat.

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Foxhound Eye Health

Good eye health and vision can be key to your Foxhound living a healthy life full of the things that they love to do. Healthy eyes allow them to chase a ball, spot other animals and catch a treat that has been thrown at them.

Unfortunately, just like with any body part, eyes can be subject to issues as well. There are a variety of different eye health issues that dogs can develop, though some are more common than others. Eye health issues may begin earlier in life or as a Foxhound grows older. Some Foxhounds will go their entire lives without eye issues, though knowing the most common ones and what they look like is always a good idea.

Glaucoma

One of the most common eye health issues for dogs to experience, including Foxhounds, is glaucoma. This condition is a disease of the eye where the pressure within the eye, called intraocular pressure, is increased. There are two types of glaucoma that can exist in dogs — primary glaucoma and secondary glaucoma.

Primary glaucoma is when there is increased intraocular pressure in a healthy eye. This occurs due to inherited eye structure abnormalities that affect drainage angle. Some breeds are more likely to get primary glaucoma, and thankfully the Foxhound is not one of them. This doesn’t mean that they can’t develop glaucoma despite not typically being genetically predisposed to it.

Secondary glaucoma is not inherited but rather caused by environmental factors. Eye disease or injury can result in a Foxhound developing secondary glaucoma. Secondary glaucoma is much more common than primary glaucoma. Some causes of secondary glaucoma can include inflammation of the interior of the eye, anterior dislocation of the lens, tumors, intraocular bleeding, and damage to the lens.

High intraocular pressure that exists with glaucoma causes damage or degenerative changes to take place in the retina and optic nerve. These changes can cause issues with the functions of the retina and optic nerve, such as converting images into nerve signals and carrying these signals from the retina to the brain.

The most common symptoms of glaucoma include eye pain, watery discharge from the eye, lethargy, loss of appetite, eye swelling, eye clouding, and even blindness. If you notice any of these symptoms in your Foxhound, be sure to get them to the vet as soon as possible.

Glaucoma must be treated by a vet in order to slow the progression of this disease. With proper and consistent treatment, Foxhounds can still live their normal life expectancy for many healthy years.

Cataracts

In addition to glaucoma, cataracts are another common eye issue for dogs to face. This condition can also be caused by genetics or by environmental factors such as age and other diseases. Foxhounds aren’t known to be prone to inheriting cataracts, though they can still be affected by them.

Cataracts can affect your Foxhound’s life by clouding their lens, making it impossible to distinguish anything in their vision besides extreme light and darkness. Though this disease does seem extreme, cataracts do progress slowly over time, meaning that Foxhounds can adjust to their vision loss as it worsens. In addition, cataracts aren’t painful, meaning that your Foxhound won’t be uncomfortable or have a lower quality of life if they develop this condition. Some Foxhounds with cataracts may always have functional vision thanks to slow progression and may not lose their vision completely. If Foxhound cataracts do become severe, medical intervention can be performed to slow progression down and reduce vision loss symptoms.

Unfortunately, there are minimal ways to prevent cataracts in Foxhounds. The best way to combat this condition is by having their eyes checked regularly for possible signs of cataracts. The sooner this condition is caught by a vet, the better they can be treated and possibly avoid total vision loss. Treatment will depend on the severity and rate of progression of cataracts that your Foxhound has. Cataracts can take place in one or both eyes and may begin at different times in different eyes.

In the case that your Foxhound does become blind from cataracts, they can still live a very fulfilling and happy life. Blind Foxhounds memorize the layout of the surroundings of their home in order to navigate without vision. You can help your Foxhound adjust to life without vision by making them aware of any changes in their environment, such as new furniture or furniture that has been moved. Despite this condition seeming scary, there are many ways to combat it and adjust to it with the help of your vet.

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Foxhound Ear Health

Foxhounds rely on their ears for a variety of things, especially since they like to be outdoors and explore every day. They use their ears to listen for predators or possible prey in their surroundings. Without good ear health, your Foxhound may feel they are unable to complete activities that they love to do, such as hunting and communicating with other canine companions.

Foxhounds are known to be more prone to certain ear conditions than other breeds, such as ear infections and inherited deafness. Knowing the signs and symptoms of these conditions can help you combat them in a timely manner and allow your Foxhound to live a healthy, happy life.

Ear Infections

Ear infections are a very common ear health issue for dogs, including Foxhounds, to face. Dogs with floppy ears are especially prone to ear infections that can be caused by this adorable feature. Floppy ears can cause a lack of airflow within the Foxhound ear, which can lead to excess moisture. Ears that are too moist are the perfect breeding ground for the unwanted bacteria that causes ear infections.

Ear infections are not an inherited condition but rather they are caused by environmental factors. Ear shape, allergies, and excessive swimming can all increase a Foxhound’s likelihood of developing an ear infection. One or both Foxhound ears can become infected, and both ears can become infected at the same or different times.

One common cause of ear infections, aside from excess moisture, is long ear hairs. These long hairs can trap dirt and debris which may lead to an ear infection. Skin allergies are another common culprit that causes ear infections. Since Foxhounds are prone to skin allergies, these should always be considered as a possible cause when an ear infection is developed. If you notice that your Foxhound has recurring ear infections despite proper treatment, consider getting them tested for allergies as the possible cause.

Symptoms of an ear infection are usually easy to spot as a Foxhound owner. Foxhounds that are experiencing an ear infection may shake their head a lot to try and ease the discomfort that they are feeling within their ear. Rubbing their ear with their paw to try and ease discomfort and pain may be another common thing for Foxhounds to do when they are dealing with an ear infection. A crust on the inside of the ear and the ear opening can be a very obvious sign that your Foxhound is experiencing an ear infection.

Ear infections need to be treated by a vet, though you can still prevent them at home. If your Foxhound is experiencing skin allergies, be sure to get them treated so that they don’t experience excessive ear infections. Though painful, ear infections can easily be prevented and treated so that your Foxhound lives a healthy and happy life.

Deafness

In addition to ear infections, Foxhounds are known to be at risk for inherited deafness. This deafness begins at birth and cannot be reversed. If you notice your Foxhound doesn’t respond to their name and other commands or loud noises, be sure to get them checked out for possible deafness. Even if you adopted an older Foxhound rather than a puppy, their deafness may have gone unnoticed before.

Some Foxhounds may only be deaf in one ear, while others may be deaf in both. Since this condition is one that’s caused by inherited genetics, it can’t be prevented. Deaf Foxhounds can still live very fulfilling lives. They can still play fetch, roughhouse, cuddle, and navigate their world successfully.

Deaf Foxhounds can still be trained to be obedient, loving dogs despite their lack of hearing ability. Hand gestures can be used for commands that you want your deaf Foxhound to learn. Sit, stay, come, and more can all be signaled through hand gestures that your Foxhound will learn to identify and understand.

While deafness can seem like a big condition to adjust to as a Foxhound owner, you and your dog can still live a fulfilling and happy life together. This condition won’t shorten their life expectancy and won’t cause them any pain or discomfort. Deaf Foxhounds are just as loveable, fun, and healthy as Foxhounds who have full hearing abilities.

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Immune Health of Foxhounds

One of the most important components of overall health is immune health. Without a healthy immune system, your Foxhound will have a much harder time fighting off viruses, infections, and other illnesses that they may encounter. The last thing that any dog owner wants is for their pup to be more at risk for illnesses because of impaired immune functioning.

Unfortunately, just like other bodily systems, the immune system can have problems of its own. These problems are known as autoimmune disorders and they occur when the immune system attacks its own body. These disorders can look very different and affect various areas of the body. All autoimmune disorders cause a decrease in overall immune functioning, putting individuals who have them at a higher risk for developing illnesses. Some breeds are more prone to autoimmune disorders than others, and knowing the ones that are most commonly seen in Foxhounds can help you get them the medical care that they need if one of these conditions develops.

Hypothyroidism

One of the most common autoimmune disorders for Foxhounds to develop is hypothyroidism. This condition is inherited, meaning the genes that cause it are passed down from generation to generation. As always, just because a condition is inherited, doesn’t mean that it is inevitable for every member of this breed. Many Foxhounds will go their entire lives without experiencing hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism occurs when a Foxhound’s thyroid glands don’t produce and release enough thyroid hormone into the bloodstream. This production offset is typically due to inflammation or shrinkage of the thyroid gland which is located in the neck of your Foxhound. This condition can reduce your Foxhound’s metabolic state and cause a wide variety of symptoms and health issues.

Hair loss, flaky skin, ear infections, and lethargy are all very common symptoms of hypothyroidism. Other symptoms that may be seen in a Foxhound who is experiencing hypothyroidism include unexplained weight gain, obesity, cold intolerance, lack of energy, and mental dullness. Hypothyroidism causes bodily functions to slow down, which contributes to the development of these symptoms.

Hypothyroidism may impact the life of your Foxhound with various symptoms, but thankfully it won’t shorten their life expectancy. Foxhounds with hypothyroidism can live normal, happy lives alongside their owner despite this serious diagnosis. In order to improve quality of life, proper treatment for hypothyroidism is important to reduce or eliminate the symptoms that are caused by this condition.

When hypothyroidism is left untreated, it can impact your Foxhound’s life in a variety of different ways. Foxhounds with hypothyroidism may no longer enjoy activities that they used to love due to the lethargy that this condition causes. If a Foxhound becomes obese due to untreated hypothyroidism, it may be at risk for other serious health conditions that can impact its life. If you suspect that your Foxhound may be showing signs of hypothyroidism, be sure to get them checked out by a vet as soon as possible.

Thankfully, Foxhound hypothyroidism is relatively simple to treat. This means that they can be back to being healthy and happy in a matter of no time. Some symptoms may take longer than others to resolve after treatment, such as hair loss and flaky skin. If you notice that these symptoms don’t go away immediately, don’t panic. With time, your Foxhound will be back to looking and feeling extravagant thanks to proper medical treatment for hypothyroidism.

While hypothyroidism does need to be treated by a veterinary medical professional, you can still help combat and prevent this condition at home as a Foxhound owner. Dietary changes and supplementation are a very promising way to support thyroid function in Foxhounds and to reduce the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Ashwagandha, some mushrooms, kelp, and schizandra berry are known to improve thyroid function naturally. This improved thyroid functioning will help minimize the symptoms that improper thyroid hormone production can cause. These agents can be included in your Foxhound’s diet through supplementation or specialized foods. They are relatively easy to incorporate and can have some great benefits when used consistently. As always, be sure to consult with your vet before beginning new supplements or making any changes to your Foxhound’s diet.

The best way to help your Foxhound adjust to hypothyroidism and live a happy life despite this condition is by sticking to recommended medications and treatments. In doing so, you can make sure that your Foxhound lives a normal, happy life with minimal symptoms and optimal health.

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Foxhound Joint Health

Joint health is essential in allowing your Foxhound to do all of the things that they love. Without healthy joints, Foxhounds may find playing fetch, roughhousing and even getting onto the couch challenging and difficult. This is why it’s important to do all that you can to ensure that your Foxhound’s joints are healthy and they are able to live life to the fullest.

Foxhounds are more prone to certain joint issues than other breeds, such as patellar luxation, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Just because Foxhounds are prone to these conditions doesn’t mean that they are destined to experience them. Many Foxhounds will never experience any joint health problems.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation takes place when a Foxhound’s kneecap becomes dislocated from its thigh bone. This condition can take place in either one or both of a Foxhound’s back legs, and it can be very painful and uncomfortable for them to experience. If you notice your Foxhound limping, avoiding putting weight on one of their legs, or holding their leg in an abnormal position, this may be due to patellar luxation.

Patellar luxation can be caused by traumatic injury to the leg, though it’s usually caused by abnormalities within the joint or limb structures. These structural abnormalities can be inherited, which is what causes Foxhounds to be more prone to patellar luxation than other breeds. A common patellar luxation abnormality is the groove of the femur being too shallow or the area where the kneecap attaches to the shinbone being displaced. These structural abnormalities cause pressure to be placed on unusual areas of the knee, which leads to patellar luxation.

Patellar luxation can vary in severity and necessary treatment. This condition can cause cartilage damage surrounding the joint, which is very painful for your Foxhound. Extreme pain and dislocation from this condition can cause increased lameness, impaired mobility, and reduced limb functioning. The most serious way that patellar luxation can impact your Foxhound’s life is through decreased physical abilities and pain. While this condition is serious, it won’t shorten the life expectancy of your Foxhound.

Besides vet prescribed treatments, there are ways that you can help combat patellar luxation at home as a Foxhound owner. Anti-inflammatory agents such as turmeric, ashwagandha, and kelp can help reduce pain and increase joint functioning. These agents can easily be added to your dog’s diet through food and supplements. Be sure to consult with your vet before adding any supplements or new foods to your Foxhound’s diet.

Another promising way to prevent patellar luxation in Foxhounds is through weight management. Ensuring that your Foxhound gets enough exercise and recommended daily food amounts is a great way to keep them at an ideal weight. Preventing your Foxhound from becoming overweight will avoid excess pressure on their knee that can lead to patellar luxation. When it comes to patellar luxation, be sure to consult with your vet to come up with prevention and treatment strategies that will work for your Foxhound.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

In addition to patellar luxation, Foxhounds can be prone to other joint health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Hip and elbow dysplasia takes place due to abnormal growth in the ball and socket of these joints as well as insufficient coverage. This causes the joint to become loose and unstable, which can lead to Foxhounds experiencing scar tissue around the joints that are affected by dysplasia.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are both inherited skeletal diseases that Foxhounds can be prone to. Some signs of these conditions include limping, obvious pain, decreased range of motion in hips or legs, audible clicking sounds when your Foxhound walks, avoiding high levels of activity, and slower rates of walking or running.

While hip and elbow dysplasia can’t be reversed or prevented, these symptoms can be managed in a variety of ways. Vet medications can be supplemented with at-home remedies such as anti-inflammatory agents and dietary changes. One study has even shown that dogs who consumed a fish-based, nutrient-rich diet had less severe cases of elbow and hip dysplasia than those who ate chicken-based diets. Some nutrient factors of fish-based foods may help slow the progression of elbow and hip dysplasia in Foxhounds. Be sure to check with your vet before beginning new supplements or dietary changes with your Foxhound. With their medical help, your Foxhound can still live a happy and healthy life with elbow and hip dysplasia.

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Foxhound Skin and Coat Health

Foxhounds have beautiful, hardy coats for which they are known and loved. These beautiful coats can vary in patterns and colors and are often very unique from one Foxhound to another. Keeping your Foxhound’s coat and skin healthy is the key to making sure that they have good overall health.

Like other bodily systems, the skin can have problems of its own. Knowing the most common skin and coat issues that Foxhounds experience is the best way to avoid these conditions becoming serious and possibly affecting other areas of their health. One of the most common skin and coat health issues for dogs to experience, including Foxhounds, is a dull coat.

Dull Coat

Foxhounds can experience a dull coat, though this condition isn’t inherited or disproportionately seen in Foxhounds as a breed. Still, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for possible symptoms of this condition so that you can get your Foxhound the treatment that they need if they do experience a dull coat.

Symptoms of dull coats such as skin irritation can also be accompanied by hair loss, inflammation, hot spots, and itchiness. All of these symptoms can make Foxhounds very uncomfortable and can affect Foxhounds of all ages and sizes. These symptoms can make your Foxhound distressed, more sensitive to cold, and they can even experience open skin sores.

Skin and coat problems such as a dull coat won’t shorten the life expectancy of your Foxhound, though it can still impact their life in a variety of ways. Foxhounds with a dull coat may no longer enjoy being outside during winter due to an increased intolerance of cold weather. Skin sores that are caused by a dull coat may become infected or pose other threats to your Foxhound’s health.

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In some cases, dull coats may be caused by various underlying conditions. If this is the case, their symptoms and life expectancy may also be affected by this underlying condition. Dull coats that are caused by underlying conditions should be managed in a case-by-case situation by your vet to find the best possible treatments.

One of the best ways to combat skin and coat issues in Foxhounds is through diet. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have a tremendous impact on improving Foxhound skin and coat health, and these can easily be added to the diet of Foxhound by their owner. This skin and coat health management is simple and won’t take a lot of steps or adjusting by an owner to be successful.

An important thing to note about adding omega-3 fatty acids to your Foxhound’s diet is that they are better added through fish sources or supplements from smaller fish than sources that are from a larger fish. Smaller fish have a higher concentration of omega-3s than larger ones, making them more effective in treating skin and coat issues such as a dull coat. Omega-3s can easily be added to your Foxhound’s diet through both supplements and specially formulated foods. These foods have a higher amount of omega-3 fatty acids than traditional foods, which will lead to better skin and coat health. Be sure to consult with your vet before beginning any new supplementations or dietary changes with your Foxhound.

While skin and coat issues can be stressful for both a Foxhound puppy or adult and their owner, thankfully they can usually be prevented and treated relatively easily. The best steps for a Foxhound owner to take to keep their dog’s coat and skin as healthy as possible is to feed a well-rounded diet and follow vet protocol. If your vet prescribes certain treatments or management strategies, be sure to follow them in order to obtain the healthiest skin and coat possible for your Foxhound puppy or adult.

With the help of your vet and various supplements when approved, your Foxhound puppy or adult is sure to live a healthy and happy life. Dry skin and dull coats don’t shorten the life expectancy of Foxhound puppies or adults, meaning you can still live many fulfilling years together. As always, not all Foxhound puppies or adults will experience dry skin or a dull coat just because they may be prone to them. Many Foxhound puppies and adults will live their entire life with excellent skin and coat health and complete avoidance of these conditions.