Breed Category: Terrier
Country of Origin: England
Average Size: 35-40 cm (at the withers)
Average Weight: 6.5-9 kg
Average Life Span: Â 13-15 years
Grooming Requirements: Medium
Exercise Requirements: Medium
History
The Fox Terrier is a type of terrier dog that encompasses two similar, yet distinct breeds: the Wire Fox Terrier and the Smooth Fox Terrier. Though terriers have been around for many centuries, the Fox Terrier only dates back to the 1800s and is a result of the mating of several terriers native to the England. Other breeds, including the Dachshund, English Bulldog and the Beagle may have helped in the development of the Fox Terrier.
Since its inception, numerous other terrier breeds are thought to have come into existence as a result of the Fox Terrier, also referred to as the Foxy. These breeds include the popular Jack Russell Terrier and the Rat Terrier. Though they were initially considered the same breed, the Wire Fox Terrier and the Smooth Fox Terrier are now separate types of dog. Their biggest difference is their appearance, as both were originally bred to assist in hunting foxes.
Their use in hunting has declined dramatically and they are now considered an endangered breed, as they are rare in and outside of their native England. Though they may still be used in hunting, they are now most commonly kept as companion dogs.
Appearance
The Wire Fox Terrier and the Smooth Fox Terrier have similar colouring. Both have coats with white as a base colour and black, tan or brown as an accent colour. The coat of the Wire Fox Terrier is long and wiry, but not curly. It has a beard and long fur around its eyes. This breed requires hand-stripping to keep the coat in good condition. Conversely, the Smooth Fox Terrier has a short, coarse coat that only requires brushing.
The Fox Terrier has a long, narrow head and perky, triangular-shaped ears. Their eyes are round, dark and always alert. Its thick tail is medium in length and stands straight up.
The Wire and Smooth Fox Terriers are an average of 35-40 cm in height and 6.5-9 kg in weight.
Temperament
The Fox Terrier generally has a great temperament towards humans. It tends to get along well with adults and children and enjoys a playful, mischievous and affectionate relationship with its family. It is, however, prone to dominant or aggressive behaviour towards other dogs if not properly socialised. This is a breed that needs to be introduced to dogs and cats at a young age in order to help discourage hostile behaviour. Training will also help keep its stubbornness and willfulness in check. Its prey drive may be piqued by small animals such as hamsters or gerbils.
This is a naturally active breed that requires regular exercise and activity in order to be happy, healthy and well-behaved. They love a long walk, but they need to be on their leash, as they have a prey drive that could cause them to run. The Fox Terrier is also intelligent, so it excels at agility and obedience exercises. If this dog spends unsupervised time outdoors, it is important to have a securely fenced yard, as this breed is skilled at digging.
The Fox Terrier also makes a good watchdog, as it alerts its family to intruders and expected company alike. It may be prone to excessive barking if this behaviour is not discouraged.
Health
Several health conditions have a history of affecting this breed. These include allergies, cataracts, a nerve and muscle disorder called myasthenia gravis, a vision disorder called lens luxation and a joint condition called Legg-Perthes disease. It may also become obese if it is not fed a healthy diet or if it is not sufficiently exercised.
The Fox Terrier is a relatively small and resilient breed of dog, so it has a greater longevity than many breeds. It lives to be an average of 13-15 years of age.
Fox Terrier or Foxy Organisations in Australia
No club information listed
Fox Terrier or Foxy Organisations in the UK
The Wire Fox Terrier Association
Fox Terrier or Foxy Organisations in the US
Mini Foxie Club of Australia Inc
FOX TERRIER RESCUE NORTHEAST
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