Smooth Fox Terrier Dog Breed Temperament, Health Issues, Grooming and Living Conditions

Description: The Smooth Fox Terrier is a medium sized dog, with the male dog standing 14-16 inches in height and the female bitches 13-15 inches, with the males weighing 15-20 pounds and the bitch 13-18 pounds. They have a flat skull which narrows a little towards the eyes and down the muzzle, to their black nose. With dark coloured eyes, and small V shaped ears that hang forward to the cheeks. They have a thick neck that is quite muscular, and straight legs. There is a high set tail which is commonly docked, in countries that allow this practice. Docking is illegal in most parts of Europe, except on medical grounds. Their coat is smooth feeling, and very dense. Their hair is mostly white with brown or black areas.

History: The Smooth Fox Terrier dog breed first originated in the 17th-century, in the British Isles, as a result of crossing the beagle, foxhound, and dachshund. They were bred specifically to hunt for vermin, and foxes, as both of these were a risk to farmers' livestock. They would locate animals and draw the attention of the farmer, or Hunter by scratching, digging, and incessant barking, until they either came out of their hiding hole or were dug out by the hunters, and destroyed. They were first accepted as a separate breed in 1876.

Temperament: The Smooth Fox Terrier dogs are particularly affectionate and devoted to their family, especially children. They love to play, and are very enthusiastic about it. Unfortunately, due to a strong hunting instinct, they do not do well with non-canine pets, especially smaller ones. They love to explorer and you could find them in all sorts of nooks and crannies, about your home. As long as they are introduced properly they do tend to get on well with other dogs in the house.

They are an intelligent dog and require mental exercise as well as physical. Playtime is important to them. They require firm consistent leadership, or can be subject to small dog syndrome. These dogs can become particularly problematic if they believe themselves to be in charge, they may become aggressive, destructive, and willful whilst also barking excessively they may become snappy and even start biting. Unless they know their place 100%, they are not safe to leave with children. However, should your dog start displaying these traits; it is your leadership that is at fault, and not really the dog.

Health issues. These dogs are prone to some eye diseases, and there is a risk of dislocations of the shoulder. In the mostly white coloured dog deafness is an issue, this does occur throughout the breed is most common in the whiter dogs. Apart from these few problems, the smooth Fox Terriers are generally healthy living to around about 15 years.

Grooming. The Smooth Fox Terriers are average shedders, and shed twice the year. Normally, the short coat is easily cared for with regular brushing with a firm bristled brush. Bathing as required, using either a bath or dry shampoo.

Living conditions. The Smooth Fox Terrier is a breed which is quite active indoors, and as long as sufficient exercise is given will adapt well to living in an apartment.