Smooth Fox Terrier

February 5, 2023

2 8 3 minutes read

History

This small and seemingly unremarkable dog breed, the Smooth Fox Terrier, also called The Smooth-Haired Fox Terrier, in fact, has played a huge role in dog breeding. These dogs, along with the Greyhound, were among the first to take part in exhibitions. The Smooth Fox Terrier breed is very significant as it was the first in the Fox Terrier family to receive official recognition from the Kennel Club in 1875.

The origin story begins around the 18th century – the oldest factual confirmation is a portrait of a beloved fox terrier dog named Pitch, painted by its owner, Colonel Thornton in 1790. The brown terrier and smooth black terrier (these dogs are now extinct) can be considered the ancestors of the Smooth-Haired Fox Terrier, in addition, there are traces of the Bull Terrier and the Beagle in their DNA.

In the 18 – 19th centuries, the Smooth-Haired Fox Terrier was widely used for hunting foxes, as their name suggests. They are capable of burrowing and pursuing their prey with surprising tenacity, especially considering the small size of this dog. Nowadays, they are rarely used for such purposes, though. However, in England, this type of hunting is still popular with some avid hunters.

The American Kennel Club recognized the Smooth Fox Terrier in 1885, the breed standard was drawn up a year later – in 1886. Among other things, the Smooth Fox Terrier is the “founding father” of many modern terrier breeds.

An interesting fact about these dogs – back in the 18 – 19th century, among hunters, white-colored Smooth Fox Terriers were more valued, since it was easy to see the dog and not accidentally confuse it with a fox.

Description

This is a small dog with the right physique – muscular, fit, and not prone to obesity. The legs are medium-length. Its tail is short and bent up. The neck is slightly longer than average. Their muzzle is elongated, and their ears hang down on the cheekbones. Color can be pure white, or white with black, black, tan, or red markings.

Personality

The Smooth Fox Terrier has a very friendly and open character and generally treats people well. Whether it’s a stranger or a close family friend, the dog will be okay with them, and will likely try to make friends in the first hour of interaction. If not in the first 10 minutes.

This breed has a huge amount of energy, they love to walk and spend time outside in a variety of games and entertainment, including with other dogs. Due to a large amount of internal energy, as well as a tendency to stubbornness, many dog breeders do not recommend getting this breed if you are an inexperienced owner who has not had dogs before.

They are quite smart and have some independence and it so happens that their instincts and desire to play and fool around outweigh the owners’ commands and need to train. This is especially true if it smells something interesting, or decides to run after a cat. Children are perceived well if they show respect and do not harm the dog.

The Smooth Coated Fox Terrier is always happy to play, go for a walk, and generally spend time together as long as it is interesting for it. Since these dogs have strong hunting instincts, it is best to socialize them with cats from a very young age. In addition, do not forget to socialize them with humans, different situations and environments, as well as smells.

Training

Despite its small size, this breed is able to learn various commands. However, you need to choose the right approach – playfulness, a positive attitude, kindness, and patience are your best friends here.

In addition, do not forget to make training sessions varied, as this breed tends to get bored very quickly. The dog will lose attention, you will get nervous, and no training will work. Screaming and beating should be forgotten about entirely in the training process.

In general, the Smooth Fox Terrier takes learning well and finds interest in it, as it is food for their mind. In addition to training and teaching commands, behavior corrections and obedience development are required.

Care

The Smooth Fox Terrier has a short coat that requires little to no grooming. It is enough to brush your pet once a week. Also, check the eyes daily, and don’t forget to clean the ears. Bathe your pet at least once a week.