The specific role of master of the hounds was first mentioned during the reign of Edward III.
This tradition faded in the 17th century along with the feudal system, and the monarch instead selected the master of the hounds.
[1] In later years, it was a political office and appointed by the Prime Minister, so the holder changed with every new government.
In later years the position was always held by a nobleman who had rendered service to the party in control.
The Privy Buckhounds were created in 1528 by King Henry VIII to provide for a hunting pack overseen by a Royal appointee rather than a hereditary officer.