Smooth Fox Terrier
Quick Summary
Energetic, intelligent terriers best suited for active owners. Excellent watchdogs requiring consistent training and exercise. Perfect blend of companionship and independence.
Contents
Weight Range
15-18 lbs
♂ Male: 18-18 lbs
♀ Female: 15-17 lbs
Height Range
38-38 inches
♂ Male: 16-16"
♀ Female: 16-16"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in England during the 19th century, these terriers excelled at fox hunting, particularly in driving foxes from their dens
Popularity
#123
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 15.5"-15.5" |
| Female Height | 15.5"-15.5" |
| Male Weight | 18-18 lbs |
| Female Weight | 15-17 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1500), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover quality food, routine vet care, and grooming supplies. Consider potential medical costs for breed-specific health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Smooth Fox Terriers exhibit typical terrier traits: alert, energetic, and sometimes stubborn. Their high prey drive and natural hunting instincts require careful management. Social and friendly with family but can be reserved with strangers.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular human interaction and mental stimulation. Generally good with other dogs but may show territorial behavior. Can tolerate short periods alone if properly exercised and trained.
Breed Overview
Smooth Fox Terriers possess a distinctive sleek white coat with black or tan markings, embodying elegance and athleticism. Their compact, well-balanced frame supports remarkable agility and strength. Alert expressions, V-shaped ears, and a confident stance reflect their spirited nature. These terriers combine independence with playful charm, displaying quick reflexes and natural hunting instincts.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Highly intelligent
- ✓ Low maintenance coat
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
- ✓ Athletic and agile
Cons
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Requires firm training
- ✗ High exercise needs
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Independent, Amusing |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including vigorous play, walks, and mental stimulation. High-intensity activities like agility training or fetch are ideal. These energetic terriers need structured exercise to prevent boredom and maintain good behavior.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active metabolism demands protein-rich diet. Special attention needed to prevent overfeeding while maintaining energy levels for this active breed.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level and age. Include protein-rich foods to support high energy needs. Monitor weight to prevent obesity.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Thrives in environments offering both indoor comfort and outdoor activity space.
Minimum space requirements include secure outdoor area for exercise. Adapts well to various living situations if exercise needs are met. Fenced yard highly recommended due to hunting instincts and tendency to chase.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
British fox hunters developed the Smooth Fox Terrier in the 1800s for their exceptional ability to bolt foxes from their dens. The breed's white coat helped hunters distinguish them from prey during hunts. They gained popularity as show dogs while maintaining working abilities.
Historical Purpose
Developed in England during the 19th century, these terriers excelled at fox hunting, particularly in driving foxes from their dens. Their smooth coat allowed easy movement through underground burrows.
Fun Fact
Their distinctive white coat helped hunters distinguish them from foxes during traditional hunts!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming maintains coat condition. Regular exercise essential to prevent destructive behavior.