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Fox Terrier (Smooth) Dogs
Breed Rating (2 Reviews)
| Appearance | |
| Friendliness | |
| Hardiness | |
| Garden |
History
The Smooth Fox Terrier first appeared in England in the mid-19th century. Their ancestry is thought to include Black and Tan Terrier, Greyhound, and Bull Terrier, and they were developed as fox and rat catchers, able to pursue quarry underground. The Smooth Coated and Wire Coated varieties were classed as the same breed until 1985, even though the Fox Terrier (Smooth and Wire haired types alike) was the first breed to be recognized by the English Kennel club in 1875.
Behaviour
SFTs are full of energy and love being around people, following their owners around and cuddling up with them on the sofa. They will want to sleep in your bed, and may even pine if you don’t let them. They can be reserved with strangers at first, but soon accept them as new friends. They are bold, as a result of their hunting origins, but seldom aggressive, and they also very quiet, usually. They have a tendency to chase cats, though, and need to be raised with them if this is not to become a problem.
These Terriers are clever and mischievous, and although they learn quickly, they often not do as they are told, and think everything is one long game. Unfortunately, this means that, until they are properly trained, they are prone to run away on games of ‘chase’ – even though you tell them in no uncertain terms that you’re not playing! Training takes time, patience and a sense of humor, but they are very obedient when trained. Games and positive reinforcement works well as part of the training program, with high energy games such as Flyball and agility appealing to them.
SFTs need plenty of walks and are full of inquisitive energy, so you need to train them to control their urge to dash down the nearest rabbit hole. The easiest option is a long leash, or walking in a safe area. SFTs tend to be aggressive to other dogs they meet when out and about, and seldom back down. Proper socialization at a young age (and older) will help this issue.
Their coats molt a lot, so the dogs need regular brushing every couple of days keeps it in good condition.
Temperament
The Fox Terrier (Smooth) is friendly, intense, and inquisitive. They insist on exploring every new place they visit, checking every corner of a room or scouting for rabbit and fox holes. They are lean and energetic, always up for a game and never ones to back down from a challenge. Early socialization is important, especially with other dogs.
Health Problems
They are healthy dogs and rarely suffer from problems, but, having said that, possible issues include Legg Calvé Perthes disease (degeneration of the femoral head which can lead to lameness and joint swelling), canine hip dysplasia (CHD), patellar luxation (dislocation of the knee cap), heart disease, eye disease, cataracts, deafness and blood clotting disease.
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
- Weight: 15 – 19 pounds
- Height: Up to 15.5"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Short
- Grooming Requirements: Once a week
- Town or Country: Either
- Minimum Home Size: Small House
- Minimum Garden Size: Small to Medium Garden
- Breed Type: Pest Control Dog
- Size: Medium
- Energy Level: High
- Exercise Required: Up to 1 hour
More to love
Fox Terrier (Smooth) Pictures
Latest Reviews For Fox Terrier (Smooth) (2 of 2)
Lovely family dogs - Nick,
We had two over last 20 years and they are perfect family pet. Good and loyal friends of the family. Very clever and funny. Like to dig if have opportunity. Will come with you everywhere. Like the kayak, boats long hard walks and will run for miles. Hardy dogs. Love camping snuggling up. They read your face and learn what clothes me you are going to do like a walk run or go work yes they know. Friends with cars but will chase if they run. Perfect
SFT x pointer crossbreed - Janet,
My first dog was a SFT x Pointer, she lived to be 15, was massively energetic and didn’t tolerate any other dogs as l lived in a rural area and she didn’t socialise early. She would never learn recall and would incessantly chase hares! I used to cycle with her on the lead or walk through the woods to the beach and she loved swimming and would insist on dragging the biggest tree branch all the way home then leave it outside the gate! She could easily leap a 6 foot fence and would greet me from the school bus by waiting in the bus shelter having legged it out of the garden every day! A fabulous terrier who chased everything and would be hard work for anyone wanting a quiet or placid dog! A very good looking lady she was black white and spotted. You cannot tire this breed out, whatsoever, ever, an extremely loyal dog, aggressive towards all other dogs and furries, not suitable with small animals and other dogs.