Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier, developed in England, is a small-sized breed known for their alert and active personality. They were originally bred to hunt foxes and other small game.

Smooth Fox Terrier Breed overview

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a versatile and energetic breed that thrives on daily exercise and mental stimulation. They are highly trainable, intelligent, and eager to please, making them a great choice for active individuals or families who enjoy spending time outdoors. While they may be prone to some health issues and require consistent training and socialization, their loving and playful nature make them a great companion for those willing to invest time and effort into proper care and attention. Additionally, due to their low-shedding coat, they make a great choice for those with allergies or who prefer low-maintenance dog breeds.

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What To Expect When Caring For a Smooth Fox Terrier

Grooming

The Smooth Fox Terrier has a short, smooth, and glossy coat that is easy to groom and maintain. They require regular brushing and occasional baths to keep their coat healthy and shiny. They should also have their nails trimmed regularly and their ears checked and cleaned to prevent infections.

This breed sheds moderately and may require more frequent grooming during shedding season. They are considered to be a low-shedding breed, making them a good choice for people with allergies.

Health

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a relatively healthy breed but can suffer from certain health issues such as deafness, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation. They may also be prone to skin allergies, eye problems, and dental issues.

Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care can help keep the Smooth Fox Terrier healthy and prevent common health problems.

Training

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a highly intelligent breed that responds well to positive reinforcement training methods. They should be trained using reward-based training such as clicker training or treats, as they can be stubborn and respond poorly to harsh or negative training methods.

Early socialization and training is important to prevent behavior problems such as aggression, shyness, or excessive barking. Smooth Fox Terriers thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy learning new tricks and commands.

Nutrition

The Smooth Fox Terrier should be fed a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. They may have a tendency to become overweight, so it is important to monitor their food intake and give them regular exercise.

They should be fed a balanced diet that contains all the necessary nutrients and should be given fresh water at all times.

Exercise

The Smooth Fox Terrier is an active and energetic breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They should be given daily walks and playtime in a securely fenced yard or park. They also enjoy playing fetch, going on hikes, and trying new activities such as agility or obedience training.

This breed should never be left alone for extended periods of time as they may become destructive or develop behavioral problems.

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Smooth Fox Terrier Traits & Characteristics

The Smooth Fox Terrier has a wedge-shaped head with a strong jaw, dark eyes and v-shaped ears that fold forward. Their body is lean and muscular with a short, straight and level back. They have a docked tail and their legs are straight and well-boned. The breed standard also requires the Smooth Fox Terrier to be strong and agile while being well-balanced overall.

In the United States, the Smooth Fox Terrier is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and they have set certain standards for this breed. According to AKC's breed standard, the ideal Smooth Fox Terrier should stand between 14-16 inches at the shoulder and they should weigh between 15-20 pounds. They should be well-proportioned, athletic and muscular with a keen, alert and intelligent expression.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a highly affectionate breed that enjoys spending time with their family. They thrive on human attention and love to cuddle on the couch. Due to their strong bond with their owners, they may become jealous of other pets in the household, so it is important to provide plenty of one-on-one time with your pet.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Smooth Fox Terriers are a great choice for families with children. They have tons of energy and love to play, but are also patient and gentle with kids. Their robust nature also makes them a great match for older children who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and running.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Smooth Fox Terriers can be friendly with other dogs if they are socialized properly from a young age. However, they have a high prey drive and may not get along with smaller pets like cats, rabbits, or rodents. It is important to supervise your Smooth Fox Terrier around other pets until you are confident in their reaction.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Smooth Fox Terriers can be wary of strangers, but their friendly nature makes them quick to warm up to new people. Early socialization and training can help them feel more comfortable in new situations and around unfamiliar people.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Smooth Fox Terriers are incredibly playful and love to engage in games and activities. Fetch, running, and agility training are all great ways to keep your Smooth Fox Terrier entertained and active. This breed is perfect for active individuals or families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Smooth Fox Terriers are highly alert and make excellent watchdogs. They have sharp senses and a keen awareness of their surroundings, making them great for activities like hunting or tracking. They are also highly trainable and can learn a variety of tasks and commands.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Smooth Fox Terriers can be adaptable to new environments, but they may become stressed or anxious in unpredictable situations. Early socialization and exposure to new people, pets, and environments can help them feel more comfortable and adaptable to change.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Smooth Fox Terriers have a short, dense coat that sheds minimally. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove loose hair and keep their coat in good condition. This breed is great for people with allergies, as they produce less dander and shed less than many other breeds.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Smooth Fox Terriers have a low-maintenance coat that requires minimal grooming. A weekly brushing and occasional bath is all that is needed to keep their coat shiny and healthy. However, they do require regular nail trims and dental care to maintain their overall health.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Smooth Fox Terriers are not known to be heavy droolers, and they generally have a very dry mouth. This makes them a great choice for people who are put off by slobber and messiness.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Smooth Fox Terriers are a medium-sized breed, weighing between 15 to 20 pounds and standing 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. Their sturdy and muscular build makes them well-suited for athletic activities like running, agility, or hunting.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Smooth Fox Terriers have a high energy level and require daily exercise and play to keep them happy and healthy. They are perfect for active individuals or families who enjoy spending time outdoors, and their lithe and muscular build makes them great running companions.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Smooth Fox Terriers require plenty of exercise and play to keep them healthy and happy. Daily walks, runs, and active play can help meet their exercise needs and prevent destructive behavior or excessive barking.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Smooth Fox Terriers have a strong work ethic and make great working dogs. Their alert nature and high energy level make them a good match for activities like hunting, tracking, and agility training. Consistent training and socialization is key to ensure they learn and perform well in their work roles.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Smooth Fox Terriers were originally bred for hunting small game like foxes and rodents. They have a keen sense of smell and a high prey drive, which makes them excellent trackers and hunters. This breed is perfect for individuals who enjoy hunting and outdoor activities.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Smooth Fox Terriers have a high level of vigor and endurance. They are capable of maintaining high levels of activity and energy for extended periods, making them well-suited for athletic activities or working roles. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help maintain their strength and stamina.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Smooth Fox Terriers are generally healthy and long-lived dogs, but they are prone to a few health issues like hip dysplasia, deafness, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Smooth Fox Terriers are not particularly prone to obesity, but they do require regular exercise and a healthy diet to maintain their physique. Overfeeding or a sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain and related health issues in this breed.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Smooth Fox Terriers can tolerate colder temperatures well with proper precautions. Sweaters and jackets can help keep them warm during winter months, and it is important to ensure they have a warm and comfortable place to rest indoors.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Smooth Fox Terriers can tolerate hotter temperatures with proper precautions. It is important to keep them cool and hydrated during summer months, and to ensure they have access to shade and water when playing or exercising outdoors.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Smooth Fox Terriers are not a great choice for apartment living due to their high energy level and need for exercise. They are best suited for families with a house and a yard, or individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Smooth Fox Terriers can be prone to wanderlust and may require extra supervision and training to prevent them from running off. A securely fenced yard and regular exercise can help keep them happy at home.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Smooth Fox Terriers can be sensitive to negative reinforcement or criticism. Positive reinforcement techniques, like rewards and praise, work best with this breed to ensure they respond well to training and remain obedient.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Smooth Fox Terriers can become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods of time. They thrive on human interaction and attention, so it is important to provide them with ample exercise, mental stimulation, and quality time with their owners.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Smooth Fox Terriers can be vocal and may bark when they are bored or anxious. This breed is best suited for families who live in a house or have a backyard, as they may become noisy in an apartment or other close living situation.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Smooth Fox Terriers require mental stimulation and engagement to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Puzzle toys, games, and agility training are great ways to keep this breed mentally active and engaged.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Smooth Fox Terriers can be a good choice for novice dog owners, but consistency in training and socialization is key. They are highly trainable and eager to please, but may become stubborn or unresponsive to harsh training methods.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Smooth Fox Terriers are highly intelligent and responsive to training. They are known for their eagerness to please and can learn a variety of tasks and commands quickly. Positive reinforcement techniques work best with this breed, as they may become stubborn or unresponsive to harsh training methods.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a highly affectionate breed that enjoys spending time with their family. They thrive on human attention and love to cuddle on the couch. Due to their strong bond with their owners, they may become jealous of other pets in the household, so it is important to provide plenty of one-on-one time with your pet.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Smooth Fox Terriers are a great choice for families with children. They have tons of energy and love to play, but are also patient and gentle with kids. Their robust nature also makes them a great match for older children who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and running.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Smooth Fox Terriers can be friendly with other dogs if they are socialized properly from a young age. However, they have a high prey drive and may not get along with smaller pets like cats, rabbits, or rodents. It is important to supervise your Smooth Fox Terrier around other pets until you are confident in their reaction.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Smooth Fox Terriers can be wary of strangers, but their friendly nature makes them quick to warm up to new people. Early socialization and training can help them feel more comfortable in new situations and around unfamiliar people.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Smooth Fox Terriers are incredibly playful and love to engage in games and activities. Fetch, running, and agility training are all great ways to keep your Smooth Fox Terrier entertained and active. This breed is perfect for active individuals or families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Smooth Fox Terriers are highly alert and make excellent watchdogs. They have sharp senses and a keen awareness of their surroundings, making them great for activities like hunting or tracking. They are also highly trainable and can learn a variety of tasks and commands.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Smooth Fox Terriers can be adaptable to new environments, but they may become stressed or anxious in unpredictable situations. Early socialization and exposure to new people, pets, and environments can help them feel more comfortable and adaptable to change.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Smooth Fox Terriers have a short, dense coat that sheds minimally. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove loose hair and keep their coat in good condition. This breed is great for people with allergies, as they produce less dander and shed less than many other breeds.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Smooth Fox Terriers have a low-maintenance coat that requires minimal grooming. A weekly brushing and occasional bath is all that is needed to keep their coat shiny and healthy. However, they do require regular nail trims and dental care to maintain their overall health.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Smooth Fox Terriers are not known to be heavy droolers, and they generally have a very dry mouth. This makes them a great choice for people who are put off by slobber and messiness.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Smooth Fox Terriers are a medium-sized breed, weighing between 15 to 20 pounds and standing 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. Their sturdy and muscular build makes them well-suited for athletic activities like running, agility, or hunting.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Smooth Fox Terriers have a high energy level and require daily exercise and play to keep them happy and healthy. They are perfect for active individuals or families who enjoy spending time outdoors, and their lithe and muscular build makes them great running companions.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Smooth Fox Terriers require plenty of exercise and play to keep them healthy and happy. Daily walks, runs, and active play can help meet their exercise needs and prevent destructive behavior or excessive barking.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Smooth Fox Terriers have a strong work ethic and make great working dogs. Their alert nature and high energy level make them a good match for activities like hunting, tracking, and agility training. Consistent training and socialization is key to ensure they learn and perform well in their work roles.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Smooth Fox Terriers were originally bred for hunting small game like foxes and rodents. They have a keen sense of smell and a high prey drive, which makes them excellent trackers and hunters. This breed is perfect for individuals who enjoy hunting and outdoor activities.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Smooth Fox Terriers have a high level of vigor and endurance. They are capable of maintaining high levels of activity and energy for extended periods, making them well-suited for athletic activities or working roles. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help maintain their strength and stamina.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Smooth Fox Terriers are generally healthy and long-lived dogs, but they are prone to a few health issues like hip dysplasia, deafness, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Smooth Fox Terriers are not particularly prone to obesity, but they do require regular exercise and a healthy diet to maintain their physique. Overfeeding or a sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain and related health issues in this breed.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Smooth Fox Terriers can tolerate colder temperatures well with proper precautions. Sweaters and jackets can help keep them warm during winter months, and it is important to ensure they have a warm and comfortable place to rest indoors.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Smooth Fox Terriers can tolerate hotter temperatures with proper precautions. It is important to keep them cool and hydrated during summer months, and to ensure they have access to shade and water when playing or exercising outdoors.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Smooth Fox Terriers are not a great choice for apartment living due to their high energy level and need for exercise. They are best suited for families with a house and a yard, or individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Smooth Fox Terriers can be prone to wanderlust and may require extra supervision and training to prevent them from running off. A securely fenced yard and regular exercise can help keep them happy at home.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Smooth Fox Terriers can be sensitive to negative reinforcement or criticism. Positive reinforcement techniques, like rewards and praise, work best with this breed to ensure they respond well to training and remain obedient.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Smooth Fox Terriers can become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods of time. They thrive on human interaction and attention, so it is important to provide them with ample exercise, mental stimulation, and quality time with their owners.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Smooth Fox Terriers can be vocal and may bark when they are bored or anxious. This breed is best suited for families who live in a house or have a backyard, as they may become noisy in an apartment or other close living situation.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Smooth Fox Terriers require mental stimulation and engagement to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Puzzle toys, games, and agility training are great ways to keep this breed mentally active and engaged.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Smooth Fox Terriers can be a good choice for novice dog owners, but consistency in training and socialization is key. They are highly trainable and eager to please, but may become stubborn or unresponsive to harsh training methods.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Smooth Fox Terriers are highly intelligent and responsive to training. They are known for their eagerness to please and can learn a variety of tasks and commands quickly. Positive reinforcement techniques work best with this breed, as they may become stubborn or unresponsive to harsh training methods.

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History of the Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier originated in England in the 19th century. They were bred to hunt foxes and other small game and were used as vermin control dogs. They are believed to be descended from various terrier breeds that originated in the British Isles, including the Beagle, Bull Terrier, Greyhound, and Black and Tan Terrier.

Smooth Fox Terriers gained popularity as show dogs in the late 1800s and early 1900s and became a popular breed among the British elite. They were also used as messenger dogs during World War I. In the 20th century, the breed started to decline in numbers and is now considered a rare breed despite their popularity in the past.

Smooth Fox Terrier Puppies

Smooth Fox Terrier puppies should be socialized from an early age to prevent them from becoming shy or aggressive later in life. They should be exposed to various sights, sounds, and people to help them become well-adjusted adults.

Early training is also essential to help them become well-behaved and obedient dogs. This breed is intelligent and responds well to positive reinforcement training methods such as clicker training or reward-based training.

Puppies should be fed a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. It is important to follow a regular feeding schedule and not to overfeed them as they have a tendency to become overweight.