Smart, friendly, quite energetic, not one to be timid, he will find a common language with anyone and after just 5 minutes of conversation he will set everything around him in motion - this is he, the Smooth Fox Terrier.
It's no wonder dog owners believe you'll never get bored with such a friend, as the Fox Terrier has long established itself not only as a hunting dog but also as a companion. This dog's personality allows it to get along easily with both adults and children, as long as you show respect for the animal.
From the history of fox terriers
The boisterous, lively, and spirited smooth-coated fox terrier is a gift from the imperturbable and majestic dog breeders of England. Its history begins in the mid-18th century, when this agile little animal emerged as a "burrow dog"—a dog that fearlessly penetrated the earth to reach predators and flushed them out of their burrows (the word "fox" means "fox"). This can be explained by the unprecedented popularity of fox hunting in England. Packs of hounds often encountered difficulties when attempting to penetrate the earth when the target was burrowing wild animals.
The breed's parents are the Bull Terrier, Black Terrier, and Brown Terrier. A breed similar to the modern one was developed in the early 19th century. However, before the breed was recognized in the 16th-18th millennia, red terriers were crossed with beagles, so the smooth-coated terrier we know today is fundamentally different from its ancestors: if not in character, then certainly in appearance—as can be seen in the photos.
In Great Britain, the Fox Terrier is still prized for its agility and courage, as these dogs are capable of digging burrows and pursuing prey with amazing tenacity, despite their small size.
Read also about toy terriers.
Description of the Fox Terrier breed
The muscular and energetic Fox Terrier generally has a well-balanced build and is not prone to excess weight. The Fox Terrier's coat can be pure white, with black, reddish, or black and gray markings.
Males stand 40 cm tall at the withers, while females reach no more than 38 cm. Adult dogs weigh a maximum of 8 kg. Other distinctive features include a short, upturned tail, medium-length legs, an elongated, square-shaped muzzle, and ears that hang down to eye level.
The Fox Terrier's activity will appeal to a young and active owner, but is unlikely to be suitable for the elderly or people who prefer passive recreation.
The character of fox terriers
Willful, obedient and friendly with age, they live a mega-active life, love attention, and are courageous in relation to other breeds.
They show extraordinary character:
- wonderful companions, think lightning fast;
- love to dig, search, explore;
- incredibly active, mobile animals with a cheerful disposition;
- constantly require a lot of physical activity and stimulation;
- They can get along with familiar cats, but at the same time show aggression towards other cats; but any small animals will always remain a target for terriers;
- they will not remain indifferent to poultry - it is better to isolate them in a timely manner, or to garden beds - they will dig up everything they can on the site, therefore the dog requires regular exercise (not just walking, but hunting);
- They do not always get along with their fellow dogs - their quarrelsome nature makes them pugnacious and unbridled in behavior;
- The tendency of smooth fox terriers to chew often causes dissonance in relationships with their owners;
- Fox Terriers are excellent guard dogs with a deadly grip and an impressive, loud voice;
- Such pets get along perfectly with children and quickly become engrossed in games;
- They are rarely touchy and angry, and their characters are easy to get along with.
Smooth Fox Terrier Training
The Fox Terrier's unbridled nature requires regular and immediate release of energy. Regular walks are essential, which means training will be a breeze. These dogs are quite intelligent and obedient, always interested in any game, and rarely passive.
The Fox Terrier is fairly easy to train, but tends to be stubborn and easily distracted. Therefore, success is possible only if the handler pays attention, is patient, and persistent. With good intentions and a positive attitude, this dog can be easily trained to perform even the simplest commands in a short time. And this dog's energy and temperament will last a long time.
How to properly care for the breed
This breed is very suitable for apartment living. As the name suggests, excess hair will not be a problem. Their coat is short but quite thick. Weekly grooming is recommended – brushing the thick undercoat with a wire brush every 7-10 days. A haircut every 10-14 months will keep the animal looking great and energetic. Daily brushing is only necessary during active shedding periods. Bathing fox terriers is not recommended, with the exception of apartment pets, which should be bathed once a week.
The owner must also monitor the condition of the ears (they are cleaned once every 2 weeks) and eyes.
Fox Terrier Menu
Experts recommend feeding Smooth Fox Terriers a balanced, premium diet. Up until the age of one and a half years, they require three meals a day, combined with natural foods (dairy and vegetables). A pet will be active, proactive, and playful only with a healthy and varied diet. Around two years of age, terriers are transitioned to two or one meal a day. Feeding twice a day is preferable, as small breeds have a fast metabolism.
Diseases
Dynamic and temperamental Smooth Fox Terriers can live up to 15 years without ever encountering health problems. The main diseases of the breed:
- myasthenia;
- cataracts (hereditary eye problems),
- distichiasis;
- goiter;
- idiopathic epilepsy.
Most often, breeders encounter luxating patellas, which can temporarily slip out of place. This is due to the active lifestyle of terriers, their lifestyle, and their temperament. Overall, smooth-coated terriers are near-perfect in health.
This dog requires freedom of movement and unrestrained activity. As a yard dog, the terrier is simply ideal. Fearless, feisty, agile, and quick, the Smooth Fox Terrier will leave no one indifferent. Easy care, a classic diet, and a small size make it an absolutely trouble-free breed for an active life. The key is to give this playful, intelligent, and, with age, even-tempered dog time and regular attention.
Read also about the breed Jack Russell Terrier And Jagdterrier
