American Foxhound Feeding Guide
Published by DosageGuide · Reviewed
How much to feed your American Foxhound, daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
The American Foxhound is a beloved large breed from United States, ranked #149 in AKC popularity. America's own foxhound, personally bred by George Washington, whose melodious bay has echoed through American history for nearly four centuries. The American Foxhound is a member of the Hound Group, dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their high energy output on tracking days. An adult American Foxhound needs between 1501 and 1685 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
An adult American Foxhound weighing 60 to 70 lb needs about 1501 to 1685 kcal a day, around 1594 kcal for a neutered dog at a healthy weight with moderate activity. On a dry food of 380 kcal per cup that is 4-4.4 cups daily, roughly 422 to 464 grams, split into two meals; on wet food alone, 6-6.7 cans of 250 kcal; on a raw diet, 19-34 oz of food, about 2-3% of body weight. Weigh the ration rather than measuring it by cup, since kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, count treats inside that total rather than on top of it, and keep them under ten per cent of the calories. A American Foxhound that gains or loses weight on these amounts needs a vet's opinion, not simply a different scoop: these figures are a starting point for a healthy dog, and they assume the 11-to-13-year life stage and activity level described below rather than pregnancy, illness or working days.
Two of the conditions this breed is screened for change how it should be fed, and the less common one matters more here because it is the one a general feeding guide never mentions. With obesity, this breed gains easily, so the ration on this page is a starting point to be reduced as soon as the waist disappears; treats count towards it and are the usual reason a careful owner still ends up with a heavy dog. With ear infections, repeated infections in this breed are usually about ventilation and moisture rather than diet, but recurrent cases without an obvious trigger are among the situations where an elimination diet earns its place. Neither is a reason to choose a different food off the shelf; both are reasons to weigh the ration rather than estimate it.
A third predisposition worth knowing is hip dysplasia: every excess pound is carried by the joint, so the body-condition score matters more here than in a breed without the predisposition, and a dog kept one rib-width leaner has measurably less pain over its life. A American Foxhound that never develops any of these still benefits from the same habits, because the habits are simply good feeding practice made specific.
A short coat makes body condition visible, which is the one advantage that matters at feeding time: the waist and the ribs can be seen and felt without parting fur, so the weekly check takes seconds and needs no scale. For a American Foxhound, that is the check worth making weekly.
Males and females of this breed differ enough in size that one ration does not fit both: around 65 lb against 56 lb on average, a gap of 16 per cent. Feeding both from the same scoop overfeeds one and underfeeds the other, and the figures on this page should be read against the dog in front of you rather than against the breed average.
Daily food for an adult American Foxhound: 0.9–1.4 cups of high-quality dry food in two meals, budgeting $65–99/month. Puppies growing toward 60–70 lbs need three to four daily feedings until around six months old. One of the healthiest purebred breeds thanks to centuries of function-first breeding, though thrombocytopathy should be tested for., treats count toward daily calorie intake.
Daily Calorie Needs for American Foxhound
Adult
1501-1685
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1356
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
1001-1124
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for American Foxhounds
The American Foxhound's exceptional energy level demands a feeding strategy that prioritizes sustained fuel delivery. Split daily portions of 4-4.4 cups into two meals to prevent energy crashes, and consider a performance or active-breed formula with higher fat content (15-20%) for endurance. On especially active days, long hikes, agility training, or field work, you may increase portions by 10-15%.
Weight Management for American Foxhounds
Weight management is a critical health priority for American Foxhounds. To determine if your American Foxhound is at a healthy weight (60–70 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. An overweight American Foxhound carrying just 10-20% extra body weight faces significantly higher risks of joint problems, cardiovascular strain, and shortened lifespan.
American Foxhound Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
2-2.2 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
2-2.2 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for American Foxhound
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 4-4.4 cups | 1501-1685 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 6-6.7 cans | 1501-1685 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 19-34 oz | 1501-1685 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 4-4.4 cups
- Calories
- 1501-1685 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 6-6.7 cans
- Calories
- 1501-1685 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 19-34 oz
- Calories
- 1501-1685 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for American Foxhounds
The American Foxhound requires extensive daily exercise, typically 90+ minutes of vigorous activity. On high-activity days (hiking, running, dog sports), increase their food by 10-20% to compensate for the extra calorie burn. On rest days, stick to the baseline portion. Never feed a large meal within 30 minutes of intense exercise; instead, offer a small snack 2 hours before activity and the main meal 1 hour after.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for American Foxhounds, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Overfeeding because the American Foxhound always seems hungry
Some breeds appear perpetually hungry due to genetics or behavior. Stick to measured portions and use low-calorie treats like baby carrots, green beans, or ice cubes. If your American Foxhound inhales food, try a slow-feeder bowl.
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active American Foxhound that runs for 2 hours burns significantly more than one that had a lazy day. Track activity and adjust portions accordingly, up to 20% more on high-activity days, 10% less on rest days.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early, even at 1-2 years old, is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Not providing enough water alongside increased food
Active large breeds process significant amounts of food and need plenty of fresh water. Ensure your American Foxhound always has access to clean water, and consider adding water to kibble if hydration is a concern, especially after exercise.
American Foxhound-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in American Foxhounds, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Portion Control
This breed is prone to weight gain. Measure portions carefully, limit treats to 10% of daily calories, and avoid free-feeding. Consider a weight management formula.
American Foxhound Ideal Weight
To determine if your American Foxhound is at a healthy weight (60–70 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. Their coat type allows for relatively easy visual assessment.
Male American Foxhound
60-70 lbs
27-32 kg
Female American Foxhound
51-61 lbs
23-28 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
An adult American Foxhound typically needs 1501-1685 calories per day, which translates to approximately 4-4.4 cups of dry kibble daily, split into two meals. However, this is a starting point, your specific dog's needs depend on their exact weight within the 60-70 lb range, activity level, metabolism, and whether they're spayed/neutered (which reduces calorie needs by about 20-30%).
Adult American Foxhounds should be fed twice a day, ideally 12 hours apart (morning and evening). Some owners of large breeds prefer three smaller meals, which can help with digestion and energy levels throughout the day. Consistent meal times help regulate digestion, blood sugar, and make house training easier.
Look for a food that lists real meat (not meal or by-products) as the first ingredient, contains 22-30% protein, and is formulated for large breeds. Large breed formulas have controlled calcium (1.0-1.5%) and phosphorus levels to support skeletal health. Weigh the food rather than measuring it by cup: kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, so the same cup can hold 80 or 120 grams.
Some American Foxhounds have a genetic tendency toward increased appetite. Certain American Foxhounds have an increased food drive that may be breed-related. If your dog seems constantly hungry: ensure you're feeding the correct amount (4-4.4 cups/day), use a slow-feeder to extend meal duration, add low-calorie bulk (green beans, pumpkin) to meals, and rule out medical causes like hypothyroidism with your vet.
Given the American Foxhound's predisposition to joint issues, consider: glucosamine HCl (500-1000mg/day), chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fish oil (EPA/DHA). Green-lipped mussel extract is also showing promise in studies. Many premium dog foods already include glucosamine, check your current food's label before adding supplements. Start joint support early (1-2 years old) for prevention rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Always consult your vet before starting a supplement regimen.
Large breed American Foxhound puppies should transition to adult food between 12-15 months of age. The key is not to switch based on size alone, your puppy should be at or near their expected adult height. Transition gradually over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of adult food with decreasing amounts of puppy food. Choose a large-breed adult formula with appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels.
Raw (BARF) diets are an option for American Foxhounds, with proponents citing shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and better digestion. A typical raw diet provides 2-3% of body weight daily, for a American Foxhound, that means roughly 19-34 oz per day. The diet should include muscle meat (70%), raw meaty bones (10%), organ meat (10%), and vegetables/fruits (10%). However, raw diets carry risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalance if not properly formulated. Consult a veterinary nutritionist before switching.
A healthy adult American Foxhound weighs between 60-70 lbs (males: 60-70 lbs, females: 51-61 lbs). Use the body condition score (BCS) method: you should be able to feel ribs with light pressure but not see them, observe a visible waist when viewed from above, and notice an abdominal tuck from the side. If your American Foxhound exceeds 81 lbs or you can't feel the ribs, consult your vet about a weight management plan.
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.