Foxhoodle

by Mary Simpson

Published: January 2nd, 2018

About Foxhoodle

Weight

30-60 lb

Height

15-20 inches

Lifespan

10-13 years

Group

Not Applicable

Best Suited For

active families with kids and other pets, homes with fenced yards, those looking for a walking or running companion

Temperament

energetic, social, gentle, affectionate

Comparable Breeds

English Foxhound, Poodle

Foxhoodle Basics

The energetic Foxhoodle is a great addition to any family, bringing together the playful, intelligent Poodle with the fun, outgoing English Foxhound. This spirited pooch loves to hang out with his human pack where he can be the center of attention. He gets along well with kids, pets and new faces however his cautious nature means you can expect him to bark when strangers approach – so great watchdog potential here!

The energetic Foxhoodle brings together the outgoing English Foxhound and the playful Poodle.

Origin

The Foxhoodle is considered a Designer Dog and he likely dates back to the 1980s when breeders first began mating different pure-bred dogs to produce a pooch that was free of the health issues that often plagued their parents. In addition to a healthier dog, breeders also began developing dogs that were smaller, hypo-allergenic and a gentler form of a popular breed.

Pedigree

The Foxhoodle is a Designer Dog meaning he is considered a mixed breed and isn’t recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Both parent breeds however are AKC members; the English Foxhound joined the “hound” group in 1909 while the Poodle joined the “non-sporting” group back in 1887.

Food/Diet

Foxhoodles are a medium-sized, highly energetic dog that will need a nutrient rich food designed specifically for their age, size and activity level. Because he can be prone to digestive issues from the Poodle side of his family, opt for a low-fat variety that avoids fillers that may cause him to overeat. Plan to feed him 2 to 3 times a day versus free-feeding and ensure playtime and exercise are scheduled for at least 1 hour after eating to avoid a bout of bloat.

The Foxhoodle comes from two highly intelligent breeds that make training this sweet dog a snap.

Training

The Foxhoodle comes from two highly intelligent breeds that make training this sweet dog a snap – as long as it is engaging and keeps him motivated. His eager-to-please personality and ability to quickly pick up on commands means he will always be looking for something new to learn that is mentally challenging. A firm, consistent approach is ideal with this dog and in addition to the basic obedience commands try adding in some tricks and agility exercises to keep him interested. Of course, loads of praise and lots of treats go a long way in motivating this clever pooch.

Weight

The Foxhoodle’s weight will be dependent on whether the Poodle or the English Foxhound is more predominant. As a result, he can weigh as little as 30 pounds or as much as 60.

Temperament/Behavior

The playful, even-tempered Foxhoodle is a friendly social dog that loves to be front and center in all family activities. He gets along well with children and other animals however he can be stubborn and has a loyal, protective streak that means he is quick to bark when strangers approach. This lively, energetic dog is highly intelligent and can become bored easily so you may need to intervene with some active playtime and mental stimulation from time to time – puzzle toys are a great indoor option for this boy.

Common Health Problems

Typically, Designer Dogs are bred to side-step the health issues that may plague their pure-bred parents however it’s always important to know what your pup could potentially inherit later in life. With the Foxhoodle that can include joint and digestive issues that includes bloat, from the Poodle side as well as Addisons, Cushings and epilepsy.

Life Expectancy

Foxhoodles typically have a life expectancy of 10 to 13 years of age.

Exercise Requirements

The Foxhoodle comes from hunting stock so is highly active and quite likely to pick up a trail and take off. He will require long daily walks or runs as well as active playtime to help keep him physically fit, mentally stimulated and allow him to burn off energy. While off-leash parks are a great way for him to run, play and socialize, ensure they (and your backyard) are fully fenced to prevent him wandering off. For this same reason, walks should always be on lead.

The highly social Foxhoodle loves to be front and center in all family activities.

Recognized Clubs

Also known as the Foxhoundoodle and the Foxhoundpoo, the Foxhoodle’s designer dog status means he isn’t recognized by the Dog Registry of American, Inc. (DRA).

Coat

The Foxhoodle has a short, dense coat that can be curly or wavy similar to the Poodle and soft or rough to the touch. While he may have a single-coat like the Poodle it is also possible that he will inherit the thicker, double-coat of the English Fox Hound which means you should expect him to be a moderate shedder and require brushing 3 to 4 times a week. His floppy ears will require weekly inspection and cleaning to prevent a build-up of dirt and potential infection.

Puppies

Your Foxhoodle puppy possesses the DNA of a hound and that will make him wilful and determined when it comes to picking up a scent and ignoring your commands. Early obedience training will be important to keep him safe and responsive to your instructions. He will be highly active and while leash training can begin at a young age, be careful not to over-stress tiny legs as he has the potential to develop joint issues later in life.

Photo credit: RadulePerisic/Shutterstock.com; Csanad Kiss/Shutterstock.com

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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How Do I Introduce My Dog to Agility at Home?

Have you ever watched a dog on social media zoom through a tunnel or weave through poles with joy and happiness on their face? If so, you may be considering getting involved in dog agility.This exciting sport is a great way to bond with your pup while providing both physical and mental stimulation. But where do you begin? Many dog parents who are considering getting involved in agility quickly become overwhelmed with the costs and commitment required to compete in this sport professionally.In this article, I will guide you through everything you need to know to introduce your dog to agility in the comfort of your own home. From building simple obstacles to mastering basic commands, you can start exploring this sport with your best friend today.Can All Dogs Do Agility? If you have been watching dog agility events, you may have noticed that a few breeds often dominate the sport. Many of the top competitors are border collies, Australian shepherds, and golden retrievers. However, if you watch long enough, you will notice that even the professional competitors are enjoyed by a wide variety of different dogs, including many breeds and sizes. Whether your dog is a purebred border collie or a mixed-breed rescue, they can take part in (and love) agility. How Do You Know if Your Dog Will Be Good at Agility? While any dog can participate in agility, a few key traits distinguish casual hobby athletes from the top dogs in professional agility competitions. For dog parents who want to use agility activities as a fun bonding experience at home, top performance may not matter. However, if you are interested in getting into the sport professionally, you want to look for the following traits: Active and high-energy Good coordinationHighly trainable Ability to concentrate despite distractionsConfident Easily motivated Good health

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Are Mutts Healthier than Purebreds? New Study Says NO!

Are mixed-breed dogs really healthier? A new study of more than 27,000 companion dogs discovered that mutts are just as likely to experience health issues as their purebred counterparts. It turns out that a smaller gene pool doesn’t make purebred dogs more prone to common doggy ailments when compared to mixed-breed dogs. The study led by researchers from the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences found that while certain purebreds are prone to specific health problems, both purebreds and mixed-breeds are equal in terms of the overall frequency of health condition diagnoses. “There are several well-known diseases that frequently occur in specific dog breeds,” explained Dr. Kate Creevy, chief veterinary officer of the Dog Aging Project and a professor in the VMBS’ Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. “This has helped perpetuate the misconception that all purebred dogs are more prone to diseases, but that is not the case.”The study, which surveyed a total of 27,541 dogs, identified 25 breeds that made up around 60% of the purebred dog population within the Dog Aging Project. Those breeds include Labrador retriever, golden retriever, German shepherd, poodle, Australian shepherd, dachshund, border collie, Chihuahua, beagle, Pembroke Welsh corgi, boxer, shih tzu, miniature schnauzer, pug, Havanese, cavalier King Charles spaniel, Great Dane, greyhound, Boston terrier, Siberian husky, Shetland sheepdog, English springer spaniel, Australian cattle dog, and Doberman pinscher. Scientists found that within these 25 breeds, 53 medical conditions make up the top owner-reported medical issues. “The medical conditions reported by owners varied considerably,” said Creevy. “However, some conditions appeared frequently in the top 10 reported health conditions by breed.”The 10 health conditions most reported for purebred dogs include dental calculus (hardened plaque), dog bites, extracted teeth, giardia, osteoarthritis, seasonal allergies, ear infections, heart murmur, fractured teeth, and cataracts. For mixed-breed dogs, the top 10 conditions were nearly the same, with cataracts and heart murmur being replaced with torn/broken toenails and chocolate toxicity. Some maladies, such as dental calculus and osteoarthritis appeared roughly the same in purebreds and mutts. However, some conditions were more commonly seen in one than the other. For example, purebreds had more extracted teeth, and dog bites, while mixed-breeds had more ear infections. Out of 53 owner-reported medical conditions, 26 didn’t differ significantly between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. What’s more interesting is that 22.3% of owners of purebred dogs reported their canine companions having no health issues, compared to 20.7% of mixed-breed owners, meaning that purebred dogs were healthier than mixed-breed dogs. The most important finding of this study is that dog breed is just one aspect of pet health to think about when creating a dog care plan, or researching what kind of dog to adopt. “People should consider many factors when choosing a dog, including environment, lifestyle, social interactions and physical activity that will be available to the dog,” said Creevy. “Planning for both preventative care and medical care as the dog ages is also prudent. Dog owners should also talk with their primary care veterinarians about the kinds of medical problems to which their new dog might be particularly prone based on breed, size, sex, etc.” Researchers think that the main reason people believe mixed-breed dogs are healthier than purebreds is because certain breeds of dogs suffer from well-known health problems. For example, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, poodles are more likely to get glaucoma, and Great Danes are prone to bloat. The fact that some purebreds are susceptible to breed-specific diseases, while mixed-breeds aren’t has contributed to the myth that purebred dogs are more likely to get sick than their mixed-breed counterparts. We now know that’s not the case thanks to this new study. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Pairing Shelter Dogs Reduces Stress and Helps Them Get Adopted Faster

Dogs are social creatures who rely on companionship, especially in stressful situations. Having a companion doesn’t only diminish loneliness, it can also have a huge impact on dogs’ future, especially those waiting for a furever home.A new study, led by Erica Feuerbacher, associate professor in the Colledge of Agriculture Life Sciences’ School of Animal Sciences found that living with a roommate lowers stress levels in shelter dogs and helps them get adopted more quickly.According to ASPCA, approximately 3.1 million dogs enter shelters nationwide each year. This new study may offer a potential solution for overcrowded animal shelters that are overwhelmed by the surge in unwanted pets and longer waits for dogs needing adoption. “Despite being a social species, dogs are often housed alone in shelters to reduce disease transmission and possible injury from inter-dog conflict. But this social isolation can work against dogs’ behavioral health and adaptability,” said Feuerbacher. “We wanted to examine whether pair housing could be a useful intervention for improving shelter dogs’ welfare.”This groundbreaking study was published in the journal PLOS One. It is the first study to look into how U.S.-based shelter dogs cope when housed alone versus when they are living with a canine companion. This isn’t the first study that researched the benefits of co-housing dogs, but previous studies focused on laboratory beagles and veterinary school dogs. These dogs were housed in kennels long-term, usually for more than six months, for research and teaching purposes. On the other hand, shelter dogs spend an average of 35 days waiting to be adopted, and are, in most cases, used to social interactions prior to entering the shelter. For seven days, researchers studied 61 dogs at the Humane Society of Western Montana. Researchers placed half the dogs in co-housing with roommates who were picked through a compatibility test and brief introduction. The other half of the group was housed alone.Throughout the week, scientists observed the dogs and recorded common stress behaviors, including lip licking, pulling back their ears, and whining. They also took daily samples of dogs’ urine to measure cortisol and creatinine, which are biological markers of stress. “Dogs housed in shelters can face chronic levels of stress due to noise, confined kennel spaces, and limited access to social interaction,” said Feuerbacher adding that this can reduce a dog’s well-being, which may affect a dog’s adoptability. Scientists were happy to discover that dogs housed together showed fewer stress behaviors. Not only that, data showed that these pooches were adopted four days sooner than single-housed dogs. These results show that pairing shelter dogs may be a way for shelters and rescues to improve the quality of dogs’ lives, increase their chances of getting adopted, and shorten their stay in the shelter. Feuerbacher hopes that these findings will encourage shelters to pair dogs with suitable roommates to reduce dogs’ stress and showcase them at their best to potential adopters. “Many potential adopters might already have a dog or would like to engage in social activities with their dog,” Feuerbacher said. “Clearly exhibiting that a dog can successfully interact with other dogs might highlight those dogs as good matches - leading to more successful adoptions.” Dogs who get to have company while they are at the shelter aren’t just happier, they also get to behave more naturally and let their true personality shine through. Co-housing dogs is a win-win situation for everyone and an easy way for shelters to get more dogs adopted into loving homes. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is Dog Poop Compostable?

Dog owners often wonder if their furry friend’s waste can be “put to good use” and composted. After all, composting is an environmentally friendly way to reduce waste, be more efficient, and return valuable nutrients to the soil. But still, when it comes to dog poop, a question often comes up – is it safe and beneficial for composting? To find that out, we need to consider several key aspects.Is Dog Poop Compostable?In general, yes, dog poop can be composted. However, it is not so simple, as with general yard waste or food scraps. The main concern with composting dog poop and waste is the potential presence of harmful pathogens, such as bacteria and parasites. These microorganisms, such as Escherichia Coli or roundworms, can pose a risk to human health if the compost is not handled and processed properly. But when dog poop is composed the right way, it can break down safely and become a useful fertilizer for non-edible plants.To safely compost dog waste it is important to ensure that the composting process reaches high enough temperatures, which will kill all the harmful pathogens. This usually requires a special system known as hot composting, where temperatures in the compost pile must consistently reach around 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit). And it is these temperatures that help kill bacteria, parasites, and other nasty things found in dog poop. This then makes the compost safe for use. So here are a few basic steps to always keep in mind:#1 Always use a separate composting bin for dog waste, as this will help avoid contaminating regular compost. This is important for keeping dog poop out of compost that will later be used in gardens for growing fruits or vegetables. Also, make sure to use fully compostable dog poop bags that will disintegrate in the compost pile – plastic won’t do as it won’t break down as fast or fully.

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