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Fox Terrier (Smooth) Dogs
Breed Rating (2 Reviews)
| Appearance | |
| Friendliness | |
| Hardiness | |
| Garden |
History
The exact origin of the Smooth Fox Terrier is uncertain, but it dates back to the 1800's. They were mainly white dogs that could be seen in fading light to hunt and dispatch quarry on farms. They were probably crossed with Black and Tan Terriers, Greyhound and Bull Terriers to produce the breed we know today. They were excellent fox and rat catchers. Smooth Fox Terriers soon entered the show ring and it's popularity soared. The Wire Coated and Smooth Coated were classed as the same breed until 1985. The Smooth Fox Terrier was the first breed recognised by the English Kennel club in 1875.
Behaviour
SFTs are energetic and plucky little dogs who love to be around people. They bond quickly with their owners and like to be close to you and follow you around. Cuddling up on the sofa is their favourite pastime and it's best to not even try to stop them sleeping on your bed. They are affectionate and devoted to their family and like playing with respectful children. They can be a little reserved with strangers at first, but soon accept them in to your home. They are bold but not aggressive towards people. They have a tendency to chase cats, so should be raised with them to prevent problems at home. Smooth Fox Terriers are clever, mischievous and will try to get one over on you. They learn quickly, but will often not do as they are told, just because they like to play. Training takes time, patience and a sense of humour, but they can learn and are very obedient when trained. They need firm, consistent training to get the best out of them. They like to be around you and hate being ignored, so games and positive reinforcement works well to train them. Their high energy levels make them ideal for Flyball and agility which has the added benefit of keeping them mentally as well as physically stimulated. SFTs are active and need plenty of walks. They make good hiking partners if you can control their urge to dash off down the nearest rabbit hole (good luck with that, best kept on a lead). Walking in a safe area is advised, but this breed has a tendency to be dog aggressive and will not usually back down. Proper socialisation at a young age (and older) will help. They like to explore their surroundings and get into trouble, so need a close eye kept on them at all times. Their small bodies allow them access to rabbit and fox holes, so owners need to be aware of this; they will find them.
Their coats moult quite a bit, so regular brushing prevents fur all over your home. Brushing every couple of days keeps it in good condition. They are healthy dogs and rarely suffer from problems, however lens luxation, cataracts and deafness are sometimes seen.
Temperament
The Fox Terrier (Smooth) has an intense and inquisitive temperament. They absolutely must explore every new place they visit often seen checking every corner of the room for something to hunt. These bundles of energy and lean muscle are always up for a game and never back down from a challenge. Early socialisation is important especially with other dogs.
Health Problems
Health problems that may affect Fox Terriers (Smooth) 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 and blood clotting disease.
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
- Weight: 6.8 - 8.6 kg
- 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.