SMOOTH FOX TERRIER

Description:

It is believed that the Smooth Fox Terrier is one of the oldest breeds of the terrier family. This dog was developed in England in the 18^th century and was originally used for hunting foxes and rodents. Although other breeds of terriers may be more popular today, Smooth Fox Terriers fully deserve their share of love and acceptance. Nowadays, this breed is not only a hunter but a wonderful pet. The Smooth Fox Terrier was officially recognized by the American Kannel Club in 1885.

Height: 14-16 inches  Weight: 15-19 pounds  Lifespan: 10-15 years

Characteristics:

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a well-proportioned, active and independent dog. He is elegant, incredibly brave and somewhat impatient. Smooth Fox Terriers are cheerful, energetic dogs, valued not only for their beautiful looks but for their intelligence. Comparable Breed: The Lakeland Terrier and Welsh Terrier.

Character:

Faithful and very loyal, the Smooth Fox Terrier is loving and affectionate dog breed. This pet requires constant human attention, and he enjoys being around children. Hence, and if you neglect it, it can become very frustrated and even develop separation anxiety. Since the Smooth Fox Terrier is a very aggressive breed, he is not recommended for families that already have other pets. Smooth Fox Terriers are not suitable for people who are apathetic by nature. In addition, they are not suitable for inexperienced people who lead a sedentary life. This terrier of medium size shows great distrust of strangers, which makes it an excellent watchdog.

Coat / Care:

The Smooth Fox Terrier has a short, straight hair which has a very smooth texture. It is quite dense and covers the whole body, including the abdomen and the back side of the rear legs. The coat color is usually white with black or brown markings. This breed sheds moderately. Smooth Fox Terriers require periodic cleaning with a stiff brush. Also, professional trimming is needed at least twice a year. When necessary, you can bathe your dog or use a dry shampoo instead.

Health Problems:

The Smooth Fox Terrier is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to Deafness, Post Nasal Syndrome, Cataracts,  Legg-Perthes Disease, Lens Luxation, Distichiasis, Post-Nasal Drip and Shoulder Dislocation. The Smooth Fox Terrier has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. In general, smaller dogs live longer than larger.

Weight / Height

The male Smooth Fox Terrier dog breed’s height is around 14 – 16 inches and weighs around 15 and 19 pounds. Female Smooth Fox Terrier dogs can reach a size from 13 – 15 inches and weighs between 13 and 18 pounds.

Training:

Dogs of this breed require intensive and extensive socialization and obedience training at very young age. The Smooth Fox Terrier tend to question any authority, and he strives to capture dominance. Since these terriers are prone to excessive barking, the owner should be sufficiently experienced. Hence, he must have a steady hand, as rough or heavy-handed methods will be absolutely ineffective. Education should be based on firmness, fairness, consistency and patience. Smooth Fox Terriers demonstrate special talent in agility, tracking and hunting.

Activity:

Furious and playful, Smooth Fox Terrier requires daily exercise and mental stimulation. He gets Enjoy long walks with his master on a leash, all kinds of family events, ball games and flying a plate, as well as from free walks in a fenced or in a safe place where he can, as they say, “off” and run for their pleasure. If you pay enough attention to the dog, its character may change for the worse. It can endlessly bark to attract attention or to start to spoil the surrounding objects. Provided sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation feel good and in a normal city apartment.

Photo credit: 46137/Flickr; 46137/Flickr; 46137/Flickr