Smooth Fox Terrier
Temperament:
The smooth-haired fox terrier is one of the two recognized fox terrier breeds. It also includes the so-called wire-haired fox terrier. Both breeds differ in their appearance. While the wire-haired Fox Terrier has a longer, wiry coat, the coat of the smooth-haired Fox Terrier is short and smooth. The fox terrier was originally bred for fox hunting.
Characteristics
As a dog breed recognized by the FCI, the smooth-haired fox terrier is also subject to a specific breed standard. Males can reach a shoulder height of up to 39 cm and a weight of up to 8 kg. Females are somewhat smaller and lighter. They reach a weight of around 7-7.5 kg.
In appearance, the Fox Terrier is a strong, muscular dog. It has a short back. While the front legs are very straight, the hind legs are angled at the knee and hock joints. The tail of the Fox Terrier is strong and bony and is carried upright.
Until a few years ago, tail docking was part of the breed standard. Even though you still see dogs with docked tails, this practice is now banned in Germany and Austria! Tail docking deprives the animal of the opportunity to communicate with other dogs.
The smooth-haired Fox Terrier comes in the colors white or white with brown or black spots. The head in particular is often brown or black in color.
The Fox Terrier was originally bred for fox and badger hunting. However, this sporty dog also cuts a fine figure as a family dog. However, the Fox Terrier is a very intelligent, agile and alert dog. It needs enough activity to keep it busy. Consistent training is also very important for this dog!
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
When choosing food, make sure that it contains high-quality ingredients, is balanced and meets your dog's requirements. Age, size or weight, activity and health status play an important role. You should follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the amount of food.
Treats should only be fed in moderation and deducted from the basic diet to avoid obesity.
Puppies can be fed 4-6 times a day. The number of meals should be gradually reduced to 2 per day until the dog is fully grown. A rest period should be observed after meals.
Fresh drinking water should be available at all times.
Health & Care
The smooth-haired Fox Terrier is very easy to care for due to its short coat. As with all dogs, the coat, eyes and ears should be checked regularly. In daily contact with the dog, you will quickly notice if anything changes anyway.
Consistent training and plenty of activity are important for a lively, bright dog like a fox terrier. Otherwise your pet won't feel at ease and may get into silly thoughts.
Sufficient exercise and activity for their brains should therefore be part of their daily program. Fox terriers are also suitable for many dog sports such as agility.
Suitable accessories
The fox terrier needs the usual "basic dog equipment": collar or harness with lead, dog basket or dog mat as a retreat, water and food bowl, tick tweezers, claw clippers, mild dog shampoo, brush and comb, toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs, transport box for transportation in the car and a first aid kit. Ask your vet what belongs in the first aid kit.
The playful fox terrier will also enjoy various toys, balls or frisbees. If you are lucky enough to have a garden, you can also buy a few small agility obstacles to keep your dog busy.
Origin & History
The smooth-haired fox terrier is a British dog breed. As the name suggests, the fox terrier was originally bred for fox hunting. He was supposed to track down the animals in their den. It is not known from which breeds the fox terrier originated.
The breed was first registered with the British Kennel Club in 1876, where a breed standard was also established for the first time. However, the Fox Terrier probably already existed before this.
The German Fox Terrier Club was founded in Germany in 1889. It still provides information today about current litters of the breed, competitions, exhibitions and breed tests. The breed standards are revised regularly (albeit only slightly) and can be viewed on the FCI website.
