History of the Smooth Fox Terrier Breed

The smooth fox terrier’s past is not well documented, however evidence of the breed goes back to the 1700s. A painting from 1790 depicts Colonel Thornton’s dog, “Pitch,�?a white smooth fox terrier. This breed was already popular before dog shows had begun showcasing the different breeds. The fox terrier was bred to hunt vermin. It accompanied foxhound packs to give chase to the foxes that took cover. Their white coloring made them easy to distinguish in dim lighting. Initially registered as two varieties of a single breed, the smooth and wire fox terriers actually had separate ancestors. The smooth is thought to have originated from smooth-coated black-and-tan terrier, the bull terrier, the greyhound, and the beagle. Wire fox terriers were a result of breeding the smooth with an unidentified wirehaired female dog. The smooth and wire were interbred extensively in order to give the wire fox terrier the white coat and more classical outline. The crossing was successful and has since ceased. The smooth fox terrier was one of the first breeds to enter the show ring, initially as a sporting breed due to its great tracking abilities and skill at driving foxes from their holes. The AKC separated the smooth and wire fox terriers into different classifications effective June 1, 1985.

Size and Appearance of the Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a small muscular breed of square proportion. It has a short back, narrow head, and strong jaw. Its compact body helps it to maintain a fast gallop for as long as needed during the hunt. The smooth gets most of its speed from its muscular hindquarters, and its tail stands straight up. This terrier has a short, fine undercoat with a thick, smooth outer coat in predominately white with tan or black markings.

Smooth Fox Terrier Temperament

This energetic breed cannot be stopped and is the center of attention. It is playful, mischievous, independent and bold. It is always ready to play with children, however it has been known to bite. Known to be determined and impulsive, this breed will kill birds and small animals if given the opportunity. It considers cats to be prey and may try to dominate other dogs. It is fairly reserved with strangers and is totally devoted to its family, making it an excellent watchdog.

Smooth Fox Terrier Recommended Maintenance

The smooth fox terrier is easy to groom, requiring regular brushing with a bristle brush. More care is needed during their twice yearly shedding. Bathe, clean teeth, and trim nails as needed. This terrier, like most terrier breeds, remains active and will exercise itself given the room. It enjoys games, walks, and free-play in the yard. As an active breed, it does best if raised in a house with a yard. It can live outdoors in warm climates, but may bark and try to dig its way out. Be consistent with training for this intelligent but stubborn breed. The Smooth Fox Terrier is easily housebroken.

Smooth Fox Terrier Health

�?Life span: 10 �?13 years
�?Major concerns: none
�?Minor concerns: lens luxation, distichiasis, cataract, Legg-Perthes, shoulder dislocation
�?Occasionally seen: deafness, patellar luxation
�?Suggested tests: eye