The Pet Atlas

Breed Dogs Hound

English Foxhound

Classic pack hound with social stamina

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Exercise
High
Mental stimulation
High
Trainability
Medium
Vocality
High
Health sensitivity
High
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Large
Lifespan
10–13 years
Body weight
55–75 lb
Height
21–26 in
Apartment suitability
Not Ideal

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Can provide big daily miles and serious outdoor time
  • Enjoy sniff-heavy walks rather than tidy loops

Not ideal

  • Need a consistently quiet home with close neighbors
  • Prefer short outings to cover most needs on typical days

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Steady, social, and built for long distance; more trail-driven than toy-driven. Outside, scent often outranks attention.

Handling & social style

Friendly and easy with people, independent outdoors. Secure containment and patient training are key.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Pack-bred, friendly, and built for long, steady running—sweet-natured but not naturally suited to a low-activity home. Endurance and scent drive show up fast.

Environment & space

Usually best with space and a real exercise plan; apartment life is rarely ideal.

Daily routine

Significant daily activity (long walks/runs) plus time to decompress afterward.

Health sensitivities

Owners commonly focus on joint comfort, ear care, and maintaining an athletic condition.

Grooming / coat

Easy coat—simple brushing and baths as needed.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

England

Background

Developed in England in the 1700s for pack foxhunting, this breed was designed for steady speed and endurance over long runs. It’s built to keep going, day after day. In modern life, they’re often friendly and social, but they tend to feel restless if their routine is too quiet or too contained.