Trailhounds look similar to Foxhounds and Beagles but are smaller/leaner in build than a Foxhound, but larger than a Beagle. Their origin is unclear although descent which includes the Foxhound is certain. Our own examination of several Foxhounds in our group show that Foxhounds are a thicker set breed, with smaller ears than a Trailie. They also seem to have a shorter mussle than a Trailhound, which is squarer in appearance.

Probably various out-crosses were tried many years ago before the present type evolved. They are closely linked with breeding from the Bloodhound, Greyhound and Foxhound, giving them their own unique characteristics, of speed, smell and stamina. Bred to race and track scent, a 10 mile trail takes between 25 minutes and 40 minutes for an adult dog and typically covers all types of terrain, from low-lying pasture to steep fell sides with streams, walls, ditches and even roads to be crossed in-between. A race meeting is an exciting event with noise, eager owners and spectators everywhere, following the race with binoculars as the dogs race into the distance. The finish is often akin to chaos.

Trailhounds come in variety of colours, although the most popular is tri-coloured, normally, white with black and tan markings. that said, there are also some very dark coloured dogs, predominately black with tan and white, or the lovely light coloured dogs known as Lemon.

We have also seen several smoke coloured grey dogs, like Lucy 3 legs, so don't be surprised when looking at Trailhounds, some are easily confused with Foxhounds and Beagles.