Smooth Fox Terrier
Temperament:
The Smooth Fox Terrier is one of two recognized fox terrier breeds. Also included is the so-called Wire Fox Terrier. Both breeds differ in their appearance. While the Wirehaired Fox Terrier has a longer, wiry coat, the Smoothhaired Fox Terrier's coat is short and smooth. The Fox Terrier was originally bred for hunting foxes.
Characteristics
The Smooth Fox Terrier, as a dog breed recognized by the FCI, is also subject to a certain breed standard. Males may have up to 39 cm height at withers and weigh up to 8kg. Bitches are slightly smaller and also lighter. They reach a weight of about 7-7.5kg.
In appearance, the fox terrier is a strong, muscular dog. He has a short back. While the forelegs should be extremely straight, the hindquarters are angulated at the stifle and hock joints. The tail of the Fox Terrier is strong and bony and is carried erect.
Until a few years ago, it was part of the breed standard to dock the dogs' tails. Although you can still find dogs with docked tails, this practice is now banned in Germany and Austria! By shortening the tail, one takes away the ability of the animal to communicate with other dogs.
The Smooth Fox Terrier can occur in the colors white or white with brown or black spots. Often especially the head is colored brown or black.
The fox terrier was originally bred for fox or badger hunting. But also as a family dog, the sporty dog makes a good figure. Keep in mind, however, that the fox terrier is a very smart, agile and alert dog. He needs enough activity to be busy. Also a consistent education is very important with this dog!
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
The diet of the Smooth Fox Terrier is uncomplicated. You should make sure to buy food of high quality. In such high quality food mixtures are all the nutrients that your dog needs. Ready-made food mixtures are also available especially for puppies or senior dogs. Both groups have special needs when it comes to nutrition.
Treats may be given to the Fox Terrier in moderation. You can also use treats from time to time during training. But here too, make sure you use treats that are appropriate for the dog.
Smooth Fox Terrier Care
The Smooth 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. You will notice quickly anyway in the daily interaction with your dog if something changes.
Important for a lively, bright dog like the fox terrier is a consistent education and plenty of activity. Otherwise, your darling will not feel well and sometimes get stupid ideas.
Sufficient exercise and activity for the little head should therefore be on the daily program. Fox terriers are also suitable for many dog sports such as agility.
Suitable accessories
The fox terrier needs a conventional "basic dog equipment". Food and water bowl, a dog bed, collar or harness and leash. For trips in the car should be suitable security measures or a dog box.
In addition, the playful fox terrier will also enjoy various toys, balls or frisbees. If you are lucky enough to have a garden, you can also think about buying some small obstacles from the sport of agility to keep your dog busy.
Origin & History
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a British dog breed. As the name also reveals, the fox terrier was originally bred for fox hunting ("fox" = English fox). He was supposed to flush the animals out of their burrows. The breeds from which the fox terrier originated are not known.
The breed was first registered with the British Kennel Club in 1876, where a breed standard was first established. However, the fox terrier should have existed already before that.
In Germany, the German Fox Terrier Association was founded in 1889. This still maintains information on current litters of the breed, competitions, exhibitions or breed tests. The breed standards are revised regularly (even if only slightly) and can be read on the page of the FCI
