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HOUNDS

When the Grand Canyon Hounds was formed, one of the first tasks was to assemble a pack of hounds. Packs are built by the graciousness of member hunts of the Master of Foxhounds Association (MFHA). Originally the Grand Canyon Hounds obtained hounds from approximately 15 hunts and we started with many different breeds of foxhounds including American, English, and Crossbred.

Our pack is made up primarily of American bloodlines. We believe that a light framed hound performs best in the arid conditions of Northern Arizona. We also believe that a lower scenting hound performs especially well because of our dry scenting conditions. Most of our hounds have bloodlines that go back to the Potomac Hunt in Maryland. Larry Pitts, the longtime huntsman at the Potomac, has been extremely generous in sending us some quality hounds that are very intelligent and outgoing and have a forward way of hunting. These hounds cover the country well and are a real pleasure to handle, both in our kennel and out hunting.

There are a couple of other strains of American hounds that have been successful for us at the Grand Canyon Hounds. One strain we use is called a Penn-Marydel and they are well known for their great scenting ability, deep voices, accuracy on a line, and stamina on longer hunts. Jody Murtaugh, then huntsman of Rose Tree Hunt and now at Moore County Hunt, was very generous in drafting us a number of hounds that have proven to be fantastic hunters. One of these hounds, Rose Tree Ox, has been awarded the honor of being a "Centennial Foxhound" in recognition of his outstanding hunting during the Performance Trials of the 100-year celebration of the Masters of Foxhounds of America.

Another strain that we have been using is a type of American Hound called a Running Walker. These hounds are known for their extreme tenacity on a line, their durability and toughness, and their tolerance for hotter temperatures. We have been drafting these hounds from a third generation “hound man” in West Texas named Donnie Clifton. So far, they have been a great asset to the pack.

Our hounds have done well at hound shows organized each spring by member hunts of the MFHA. We have been particularly successful with each year's Pack Class. This class is judged by the accordance of the hounds and by their enthusiasm and bidibility.

Rose Tree Ox