SMOOTH FOX TERRIER
APPEARANCE
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a small to medium sized dog with a sturdy build. He has an alert expression. The coat of the Smooth Fox Terrier is short, close fitting, and sleek. Coloring of the coat is white, and has black, tan, or black and tan markings. The Smooth Fox Terrier is around 14-16 inches in height for females, and around 15-17 inches for males. These dogs weigh in at around 15-18 pounds for females and around 18-20 pounds for males.
PERSONALITY
the Smooth Fox Terrier loves to hunt, and therefore should be on leash when in the company of other animals. They are extremely affectionate to their humans but can be jealous (which it shows openly), impulsive, and scrappy. In other words, it can exhibit its temperamental moods especially if not given the proper attention. The Smooth Fox Terrier can also be very possessive of his food and belongings, and is often manipulative if he thinks he can get away with it. Although small in size the Smooth Fox Terrier is not afraid to stand up for himself, or even pick a fight.
TRAINING
The Smooth Fox Terrier can be stubborn, independent, and wicket in terms of his sense of humor, and is best suited to those with experience of dog ownership who can be assertive and confident. In general though, the Smooth Fox Terrier is very loyal and intelligent, that it can even be trained for tricks and other useful commands.
EXERCISE
This breed loves to run free and whenever possible, should be allowed to do so as long as the place is safe. However, it can also be contented with long walks or a visit at the nearby park. These exercises are important or this dog can turn temperamental and destructive.
SOCIALIZATION
He can be bossy, quarrelsome, and even aggressive with other dogs of the same size, and will chase smaller animals including cats unless raised with them. These dogs do not like to be treated roughly or pestered, and are best suited to children that are gentle and older. Some will get along fine with strangers, whereas others may be reserved and even wary. Providing he receives consistent training from a confident yet patient owner, and has plenty of interaction and early socialization, the Smooth Fox Terrier can make an entertaining pet and companion.
LIVING CONDITIONS
This breed is active even indoors and can be happy living in an apartment even without a small yard. However, it should be taken out for walks.
GROOMING
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a low maintenance dog, which is perfect for those that have little time to dedicate to grooming. An occasional brushing of his coat will help to keep it looking sleek and in good condition. These dogs are medium shedders, and his coat does seem to shed all over the place so this is not the right choice of allergy sufferers.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Smooth Fox Terrier is 12-14 years. Some of the possible health problems to look out for with this breed, include: heart problems, Legg-Perthes, thyroid problems, luxating patella, digestive problems, and seizures. The parents of the Smooth Fox Terrier should have CERF and OFA certificates.
HISTORY
The Smooth Fox Terrier originates from England, and worked alongside foxhounds to lure foxes from dens and to hunt vermin. Bred in the mid-1800s, the breed was paired with the Wire Fox Terrier until the mid-1980s, at which point they became recognized as a separate group. The Smooth Fox Terrier was registered with the AKC in 1885.
