American Foxhounds are known for their distinctive howl. It is a natural behavior for them and can be quite loud, especially at night when the surroundings are quieter. If you are considering getting an American Foxhound as a pet, it is important to be aware of their tendency to howl and consider whether it will be a suitable fit for your living situation.
The howling behavior of American Foxhounds is deeply rooted in their hunting instincts. Historically, these dogs were bred for their ability to track and chase prey, often in packs. Their howling served as a means of communication with other dogs in the pack, helping them coordinate their movements and stay in contact with each other while on the hunt.
Even though American Foxhounds are now commonly kept as companion animals rather than working dogs, their instinct to howl remains strong. This means that even if they are not actively hunting, they may still howl in response to various triggers, such as certain sounds or scents, or simply due to boredom or anxiety.
It is important to note that howling is a natural behavior for dogs, and trying to completely suppress it is often not feasible or fair to the dog. However, there are some steps you can take to manage and minimize excessive howling:
1. Exercise: Providing your American Foxhound with regular exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce restlessness and boredom, which may contribute to excessive howling. Daily walks, playtime, and puzzle toys can all help keep them engaged and tired.
2. Training and socialization: Proper training and socialization from an early age can help your American Foxhound learn to control their howling and respond to commands. Teaching them a “quiet” command, for instance, can be helpful in redirecting their behavior when they start to howl.
3. Environmental enrichment: Creating a stimulating environment for your American Foxhound can help keep them occupied and reduce the likelihood of excessive howling. Provide them with plenty of toys, chew bones, and interactive games to keep their minds and bodies busy.
4. Desensitization: Gradually exposing your American Foxhound to the triggers that cause them to howl, such as certain sounds or being left alone, can help desensitize them over time. This can be done through controlled exposure and positive reinforcement, rewarding them for remaining calm in the presence of these triggers.
However, it is important to acknowledge that despite your best efforts, some American Foxhounds may continue to howl more frequently and loudly than others. This is a breed characteristic that may not be entirely trainable or controllable. If you live in close proximity to neighbors who might be disturbed by the howling, it is worth considering whether an American Foxhound is the right choice for your living situation.
American Foxhounds are known for their howling tendencies, which stem from their hunting instincts. While it is possible to manage and minimize excessive howling through training, exercise, and environmental enrichment, it is important to accept that it is a natural behavior for these dogs and may not be entirely eliminated. If you have neighbors in close proximity who may be disturbed by nighttime howling, it is worth considering other breeds or discussing the issue with them before bringing an American Foxhound into your home.