The Smooth Fox Terrier is one of the two different breeds of Fox Terrier (the other breed is the Wire Fox Terrier) which originated in the British Isles in the 19th century. These dogs probably descended from earlier varieties of English hunting dogs or British Terriers.
The first standard for the Smooth Fox Terrier was established in 1876, setting it apart from the Wire Fox Terrier. Despite that, some clubs still consider the two as one breed having different coat features.
The Fox Terrier Club of England was established in 1876. Nine years later, the American Fox Terrier Club was also established, becoming the first breed speciality club to become a member of the AKC.
Both the Smooth and Wire Fox Terrier were acknowledged by the American Kennel Club in the year 1885 and were separated since 1984. Fox Terriers are very good when it comes to hunting, tracking, guarding and performing various tricks.
Traits and Behavior
The Fox Terriers were originally bred and trained for fox hunting. They are lively, loyal, and intelligent.
This dog can be trained as watchdogs but strong leadership skills on the part of the trainer must be shown to the dog to create a loyal response from the dog in recognizing the master’s voice and training steps.
In this way, this terrier will remain obedient and not exhibit aggression.
Because they are used frequently in chasing foxes, these dogs can be vicious and aggressive among small animals like rats or rabbits around them.
Socialization is the key to train them to be friendly to other domesticated animals like other dogs or cats. In some cases, they can be wary of strangers especially if they are not trained to be friendly to just anyone.
Fox Terriers are affectionate, happy-go-lucky type and can be great pet companions.
Pet Care and Diseases
For these dogs to maintain their alertness and stamina, regular exercises like running, walking, or chasing something must be regularly conducted. However, the owner/trainer must exert extra caution in freeing these dogs from their leashes. They may show aggression when on the loose.
Appearance
This dog may encounter certain health problems like epilepsy, nasal drip, lens luxation, distichiasis, cataracts, Legg-Calvé-Perthes syndrome and shoulder dislocation. They are also at risk for mast cell tumors.
The Wire and Smooth Fox Terriers look almost the same, except for the coat and markings.
The Smooth Fox Terrier has a flat coat that is dense, hard and smooth to touch.
The color of the coats is similar to both dogs. They each have a base coat that can be either black and tan or tan with some occasional white spotting.
Both genders of the two breeds stand around 14–15 inches at the withers and weigh around 7-9 kilograms.
The head appears long and wedge-shaped. Their eyes are small and dark while the ears are v-shaped.
General Information
The Smooth Fox Terrier has a life expectancy of 12-15 years. The average litter size is 3-6 puppies. Other names: none.
Featured Video
Watch this video: “Breed All About It – Smooth Fox Terrier”