Mary Allen
Introduction: The English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a breed of dog that originated in England in the 18th century. It was primarily bred for fox hunting and is known for its exceptional stamina and scenting abilities. The breed is highly regarded for its loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature, making it a popular choice for families and hunters alike.
General Characteristics of the English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a medium to large size dog, weighing between 55-75 pounds and standing 21-25 inches tall. It has a muscular, athletic build, with a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, tan, and tri-color. The breed is known for its deep, melodious bark, which is used to alert hunters to the presence of prey.
Barking: Natural Instinct or Behavioral Issue?
Barking is a natural instinct in dogs, and the English Foxhound is no exception. However, excessive barking can be a behavioral issue, and it is essential to understand the reasons behind it. English Foxhounds were bred to bark while hunting, so it is not uncommon for them to bark more than other breeds. However, if the barking becomes excessive, it may be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or lack of exercise.
Frequency and Loudness of English Foxhound Barking
English Foxhounds are known for their loud and frequent barking, which can be heard from a distance. They have a deep, melodious bark that is used to alert hunters and other dogs to the presence of prey. While this barking may be desirable in a hunting situation, it can be problematic in a residential area or around people.
Factors that Influence English Foxhound Barking
Several factors can influence English Foxhound barking, including boredom, anxiety, lack of exercise, and separation anxiety. Additionally, the breed’s natural instinct to hunt and bark can also contribute to excessive barking.
Training Techniques to Reduce English Foxhound Barking
Training techniques to reduce English Foxhound barking include positive reinforcement, citronella collars, and addressing separation anxiety. Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior and ignores bad behavior. Citronella collars are another option that releases a harmless spray of citronella when the dog barks, which can help reduce barking. Addressing separation anxiety can also help reduce barking, as dogs who are anxious when left alone may bark excessively.
Positive Reinforcement: An Effective Training Method
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior and ignores bad behavior. This technique involves rewarding the dog with treats, praise, or playtime when it exhibits desirable behavior, such as not barking excessively. This method can be used to teach the English Foxhound to bark less and can be combined with other training techniques.
Using Citronella Collars to Control English Foxhound Barking
Citronella collars are another option to control English Foxhound barking. These collars release a harmless spray of citronella when the dog barks, which can help reduce barking. The scent of citronella is unpleasant to dogs, but it does not harm them. This method can be effective for some dogs but may not work for all.
Addressing Separation Anxiety in English Foxhounds
Separation anxiety can be a significant factor in excessive barking in English Foxhounds. Addressing separation anxiety can include crate training, providing plenty of exercise, and gradually increasing the time the dog is left alone. Additionally, leaving the dog with toys or treats can also help reduce anxiety and barking.
Socialization: Minimizing English Foxhound Barking Around People
Socialization is essential to minimize English Foxhound barking around people. This includes exposing the dog to a variety of people, places, and situations from a young age. Socialization can help the dog feel more comfortable and confident in different environments, which can reduce anxiety and barking.
Conclusion: English Foxhounds and Barking
English Foxhounds are known for their loud and frequent barking, which can be problematic in a residential area or around people. However, with proper training, socialization, and addressing behavioral issues, excessive barking can be reduced. Positive reinforcement, citronella collars, and addressing separation anxiety are effective training techniques to reduce English Foxhound barking.
References: Cited Sources on English Foxhounds and Barking
- American Kennel Club. (n.d.). English Foxhound. Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/english-foxhound/
- Hare, B. (2017, September 11). Understanding Separation Anxiety in Dogs. American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/separation-anxiety-in-dogs/
- SPCA of Texas. (n.d.). Barking: How to Get Your Dog to Quiet Down. Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://www.spca.org/page.aspx?pid=401
- Wag! (2018, August 24). English Foxhound Barking – Can You Stop It? Wag!. https://wagwalking.com/training/train-an-english-foxhound-to-stop-barking