Smooth Fox Terrier Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you thinking about getting a new furry friend to add to your family? Have you considered a Smooth Fox Terrier? This breed is known for their energy, intelligence, and love of play. They are loyal and affectionate companions that make great family pets. However, before making any decisions, it’s important to do your research and make sure that the Smooth Fox Terrier breed is the right fit for you and your lifestyle. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, temperament, and needs of this breed to help you make an informed decision.

Breed Category: Terrier
Country of Origin: England
Average Size:36-41 cm
Average Weight:6-8 kg
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a breed of dog that has been around for centuries. It is believed that the breed originated in England in the 18th century, where it was used for hunting small game such as foxes and rabbits. The breed was developed by crossing various terrier breeds, including the Bull Terrier, the Greyhound, and the Beagle. The result was a small, agile dog with a keen sense of smell and a strong hunting instinct.

The Smooth Fox Terrier quickly became popular among hunters and farmers, who appreciated its ability to catch small game and keep their farms free of vermin. The breed was also used in dog fighting, a cruel and illegal sport that was popular in England at the time. However, as attitudes towards animal welfare began to change, dog fighting was outlawed, and the Smooth Fox Terrier was no longer used for this purpose.

In the late 19th century, the Smooth Fox Terrier was recognized as a distinct breed by the Kennel Club in England. The first breed standard was established in 1876, which set out the physical characteristics and temperament of the breed. The breed standard has been revised several times since then, but the basic characteristics of the Smooth Fox Terrier have remained the same.

The Smooth Fox Terrier was introduced to the United States in the late 19th century, where it quickly became popular among dog lovers. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885, and the first Smooth Fox Terrier was registered in the United States in 1886. The breed became even more popular in the United States in the early 20th century, when it was used in advertising campaigns for various products, including cigarettes and soap.

Today, the Smooth Fox Terrier is still a popular breed of dog, both in the United Kingdom and around the world. The breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and high energy levels, and it is often used in agility competitions and other dog sports. The Smooth Fox Terrier is also a popular companion dog, thanks to its friendly and outgoing nature.

In conclusion, the Smooth Fox Terrier is a breed of dog with a long and fascinating history. From its origins as a hunting dog in England to its popularity as a companion dog around the world, the Smooth Fox Terrier has played an important role in the lives

Size and Breed Category

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that typically weighs between 6-8 kg and stands at a height of 35-40 cm at the shoulder. They have a muscular and athletic build, with a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colours including white, black, and tan. Their head is wedge-shaped with a long, narrow muzzle and small, dark eyes that give them an alert and intelligent expression. The Smooth Fox Terrier is known for their high energy levels and playful nature, making them a popular choice for families with active lifestyles. They are also highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions.

The Smooth Fox Terrier is classified as a terrier breed, which means they were originally bred for hunting small game such as foxes and rodents. They are known for their tenacity and courage, which made them valuable assets to hunters in the past. Today, they are primarily kept as companion animals and are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature towards their owners. However, they still retain their hunting instincts and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, the Smooth Fox Terrier is a versatile and charming breed that makes a great addition to any household.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Smooth Fox Terrier is short and dense, with a glossy and smooth texture. The fur is typically white with black or tan markings, which are usually found on the head and ears. The black markings can range from a solid black to a black and white pattern, while the tan markings are usually a rich mahogany color. The fur on the body is usually white, with the black or tan markings appearing in a symmetrical pattern. The fur on the tail is usually white, with a black or tan tip. The fur on the legs is also white, with the black or tan markings appearing on the feet. Overall, the fur of the Smooth Fox Terrier is sleek and elegant, with a striking contrast between the white and black or tan markings.

The length of the fur on the Smooth Fox Terrier is short and uniform, with no feathering or longer hair on the ears or tail. The fur is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming, with a weekly brushing to remove any loose hair and dirt. The fur is also hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for people with allergies. The fur on the Smooth Fox Terrier is an important part of their appearance, as it helps to define their breed characteristics and gives them a distinctive look. Overall, the fur of the Smooth Fox Terrier is short, dense, and easy to care for, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance pet with a striking appearance.

Termperament and Trainability

Smooth Fox Terriers are known for their lively and energetic temperament. They are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also very intelligent and quick learners, making them highly trainable. However, their high energy levels can sometimes make them a bit stubborn and difficult to train, especially if they are not properly socialized from a young age. Despite this, with the right training and socialization, Smooth Fox Terriers can make excellent companions and are well-suited to a variety of lifestyles.

When it comes to trainability, Smooth Fox Terriers are known for their high levels of intelligence and quick learning abilities. They are highly motivated by positive reinforcement and respond well to consistent, reward-based training methods. However, they can sometimes be a bit stubborn and independent, which can make them a challenge to train for inexperienced owners. It is important to start training and socializing Smooth Fox Terriers from a young age to ensure that they develop into well-behaved and obedient dogs. With the right approach, these dogs can excel in a variety of activities, including obedience, agility, and even hunting.

Known Health Conditions

Smooth Fox Terriers are prone to a number of health conditions, including deafness, allergies, and skin problems. Deafness is a common issue in this breed, with around 20% of Smooth Fox Terriers being affected. This can be caused by a genetic mutation or as a result of an ear infection. Allergies are also a concern, with many dogs suffering from food allergies or environmental allergies such as pollen or dust. Skin problems are another common issue, with Smooth Fox Terriers being prone to skin infections and irritations. Regular grooming and bathing can help to prevent these issues.

Another health condition that Smooth Fox Terriers are susceptible to is Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, which is a degenerative condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain and lameness, and may require surgery to correct. Patellar luxation is another issue that can affect this breed, which is when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. This can cause pain and difficulty walking, and may also require surgery. Smooth Fox Terriers are also at risk of developing eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help to catch these issues early and prevent them from becoming more serious.

Openness to Strangers

Smooth Fox Terriers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature towards strangers. They are always eager to meet new people and make new friends. This breed is highly sociable and loves to be around people, making them great companions for families with children. They are also very affectionate and enjoy being petted and cuddled. Smooth Fox Terriers are not shy or timid, and they will often approach strangers with a wagging tail and a friendly bark. They are very curious and love to explore their surroundings, which can sometimes lead them to wander off in search of new adventures. Overall, the Smooth Fox Terrier is a very sociable and friendly breed that loves to interact with people and make new friends.

Smooth Fox Terriers are very adaptable and can easily adjust to new environments and situations. They are not easily intimidated by unfamiliar surroundings or people, and they are always eager to explore new places. This breed is very intelligent and quick to learn, which makes them great candidates for training and obedience classes. They are also very active and energetic, and they love to play and run around. Smooth Fox Terriers are very loyal and protective of their owners, and they will often bark to alert them of any potential danger. They are also very affectionate and love to cuddle with their owners. Overall, the Smooth Fox Terrier is a very adaptable and intelligent breed that loves to play and explore new places.

Playfulness Level

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their lively and mischievous nature, making them a popular choice for families with children. Their playful demeanor is often accompanied by a strong sense of curiosity, which can lead them to explore their surroundings with great enthusiasm. This breed is also known for their love of playtime, and they thrive on activities that challenge their physical and mental abilities. Whether it’s playing fetch, going for a run, or participating in agility training, the Smooth Fox Terrier is always up for a good time.

Despite their playful nature, the Smooth Fox Terrier is also a highly intelligent breed. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This makes them an excellent choice for owners who are looking for a dog that is both fun-loving and easy to train. However, it’s important to note that the Smooth Fox Terrier can be prone to boredom if they are not given enough mental and physical stimulation. As such, it’s important for owners to provide them with plenty of opportunities to play and explore their environment. With the right care and attention, the Smooth Fox Terrier can make a wonderful addition to any family.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Smooth Fox Terriers have a lively and energetic personality, making them a great companion for children who enjoy playing and being active. They are intelligent and quick learners, which means they can be trained easily and are eager to please their owners. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance pet for busy families. However, they can be prone to chasing small animals due to their hunting instincts, so it’s important to supervise them around other pets. Overall, Smooth Fox Terriers can make a wonderful addition to a family with children who are looking for an active and intelligent pet.

Exercise Needs

Smooth Fox Terriers require a moderate amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They are an active breed that enjoys daily walks and playtime in a secure, fenced area. A minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day is recommended, but they will happily engage in more vigorous activities such as running, hiking, and agility training. It is important to note that they have a high prey drive and should always be kept on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from chasing after small animals. Additionally, mental stimulation is crucial for this breed, and they benefit from interactive toys and training sessions that challenge their intelligence and problem-solving skills.

Smooth Fox Terriers are a breed that thrives on routine and consistency, and regular exercise is an essential part of their daily routine. Lack of exercise can lead to boredom and destructive behavior, such as excessive barking and digging. It is important to provide them with a variety of activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. In addition to daily walks and playtime, they enjoy participating in dog sports such as flyball and obedience trials. As with any breed, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount and type of exercise for your individual dog based on their age, health, and activity level.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Smooth Fox Terriers have a reputation for being highly energetic and playful. They are known to be very social animals and enjoy the company of their owners. When it comes to other pets, Smooth Fox Terriers can be quite territorial and may not get along with other dogs or cats. However, with proper socialization and training, they can learn to coexist peacefully with other animals in the household. It is important to introduce them to other pets slowly and under supervision to ensure a positive outcome.

Housing Requirements

Smooth Fox Terriers require a living space that is suitable for their energetic and playful nature. They need a home with a secure and spacious garden where they can run around and play. The garden should be fenced to prevent them from escaping and getting into trouble. Smooth Fox Terriers also require a comfortable indoor living space where they can rest and relax after a long day of playing. The indoor space should be well-ventilated and have enough room for them to move around freely. Additionally, they need a comfortable bed where they can sleep peacefully at night.

Smooth Fox Terriers require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and energy levels. They need a diet that is high in protein and low in fat to prevent obesity and other health problems. Their diet should consist of high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for their breed and age. Smooth Fox Terriers also require regular exercise to keep them healthy and fit. They need daily walks and playtime to burn off excess energy and maintain their physical and mental well-being. Regular visits to the vet are also necessary to ensure that they are up-to-date on their vaccinations and to detect any health problems early on.

Summary

Smooth Fox Terriers make great pets for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They are energetic and love to play, making them great companions for children. They are also intelligent and respond well to training, making them easy to teach new tricks and commands. With proper socialization, they can get along well with other pets in the household. However, they do have a high prey drive and may chase small animals, so caution should be taken when introducing them to cats or other small pets. Overall, Smooth Fox Terriers are a great choice for families who are looking for an active and intelligent pet.

Smooth Fox Terrier Dog FAQS