The Smooth Fox Terrier, called the “gentleman of the terrier world,” is a lively, gregarious terrier with a devil-may-care attitude, originally developed for Britain’s traditional foxhunts. They are close relatives to
Fox Terriers are spunky, fearless, loyal dogs who adore the outdoors as much as they enjoy people. They were developed to work as part of fox hunting parties, bolting foxes from their dens out into the open where Foxhounds and hunters then took over. Their small size allowed them to get into the foxes dens, and t heir long legs helped them keep up with the hounds. Today, Fox Terriers still enjoy running and digging, and are happy to do so alongside kids of all ages. They are active dogs who require a family who is committed to exercise, but for experienced owners, these terriers make a great family pet.
The Smooth Fox Terrier should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
The Smooth Fox Terrier’s short but hard, dense coat should be groomed weekly with a thick brush or hound glove. A bath every month or so should be sufficient—unless the dog follows his nature and ends up digging a hole in the mud, in which case “bathe as needed” is the guidance that applies. Nails should be kept trimmed and neat. The ears should be checked weekly to remove any excess wax and or debris, which can cause ear infections, and the teeth should be brushed as often as possible.
Like most terriers, the Smooth Fox Terrier is lively and athletic and requires ample exercise. Long walks with his owner, chasing a tennis ball in the backyard, or playtime in a large, securely fenced area are all great ways to exercise your dog and keep him mentally and physically fit. Never allow your Smooth Fox Terrier to run off-lead, as he is likely to take off if he catches sight of a small animal he perceives as prey.
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: lens luxation, distichiasis, cataract, Legg-Perthes, shoulder dislocation
Occasionally seen: deafness, patellar luxation
Suggested tests: eye
Life span: 10-13 years
Foxhunting in its traditional form is now banned in England, but for generations it was the passion of the British gentry. A full-dress foxhunt, with all its pageantry and ritual, was an arresting sight: dozens of hunters and horses, huge packs of hounds, and tenacious fox terriers, all thundering across the vast, rolling estates of the very rich. The terriers rode in saddlebags and were released when the fox went underground. After terriers routed the fox, the horses and hounds would resume the chase.