American Foxhound health: what owners should know

American Foxhounds are generally healthy, hardy dogs. Hip dysplasia occurs, ear infections are common because of the drop ears, and a platelet disorder (thrombopathy) that affects blood clotting has been reported in some lines. Responsible breeders hip score and ask about bleeding problems in their lines.

Keep your hound lean, check ears weekly and inspect feet after runs. See a vet if you notice head shaking or a smell from the ears, lameness that lasts more than a day or two, unexplained bruising or bleeding that is slow to stop, or a sudden drop in energy or appetite.