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Virginia does not have an official state animal, but the American foxhound, bred for fox hunting in colonial times, is considered the state dog. George Washington played a role in developing the breed, which is known for its genial nature and high energy. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1866. American foxhounds are still used for hunting and make good family pets with consistent training and ample exercise.
There is not officially a state animal of Virginia, although there is a state bird, a state fish, a state bug, a state bat, and a state dog. By default, Virginia’s state dog, the American foxhound, could be considered the state animal. This dog was bred by landowners in colonial times for fox hunting. The diaries of George Washington, the first president of the United States, refer to his development of a foxhound stock from English and French dogs. This foxhound breed remains popular as a working hunting dog and family pet into the 21st century.
The American Kennel Club recognized American foxhounds as a breed in 1866. This breed is taller and faster than other foxhound breeds and is relatively rare outside of Maryland, Tennessee and Virginia, where it has been designated a dog of was in 1966. It comes in several different coat colors, including red, tricolor, black and tan, and blue.
In addition to being a state animal of Virginia, the American foxhound is prized for its genial nature. He’s a gentle dog that can be an excellent choice for families with children. American foxhounds enjoy being around people and other animals and will become stressed if left alone for long periods of time.
A house in a rural setting with a large fenced yard is an ideal environment for an American foxhound. They are high energy animals that need to be able to exercise. An owner living in an apartment or other urban environment will need to provide ample recreational opportunities for his pet.
The story behind Virginia’s default state animal begins in the 1650s, when Robert Brook imported a pack of English foxhounds for breeding. He had three breeds of English foxhounds that were bred together to create a complete and improved hunting breed. It is reported that Washington participated in the breeding process and is known as the father of the American foxhound. His breeding efforts were assisted by the gift of a French greyhound. The introduction of that genetic stock into the three English lines resulted in the American foxhound.
These dogs have a short, coarse coat that needs little grooming. They can be kept outdoors in temperate climates. American foxhounds require consistent training with an owner who understands the breed. They are best exercised in open spaces that are enclosed or under the close scrutiny of their human companion.
Virginia’s canine state animal is still a working dog in many cases. American foxhounds are used as pack dogs for fox hunting and other hunting pursuits. They have also successfully made the transition to being family pets, a task for which they are temperamentally suited.
