The Fox Terrier

The Fox Terrier’s function is that of a dog that will run with the hounds to worry and hold the fox at bay, or hunt by himself for foxes and other vermin. He is traditionally more white than any other color since, as a dog that ran with hounds, it was important that he be distinguishable from the fox. For centuries this dog has been bred “true” (with little variation in appearance or general structure). Long before he was ever in a show ring, this dog was a part of the hunting scene in Great Britain. He is one of the terriers that was bred to “go to ground” when giving chase to the fox.

In the late 1860s the dog became a regular entry in dog shows. At that time both the wirehaired and the smooth coated fox terriers were represented in one classification, but by 1876 the Fox Terrier Club was formed and the two coats began to be registered separately.

The smooth coat is exactly that, very short and dense and sleek in appearance. The coat in general is quite easy care and by nature the correct coat is waterproof. The smooth coated Fox terrier sheds normally twice a year. The “wire coat” is as the name implies, wiry and with a harsh texture. The wire coat also is one that will not shed out the dead hairs naturally, thus it must be “stripped” on a regular basis. Both dogs are generally white and may have black and tan markings or patches of brown or black. In appearance both dogs should show good muscle and strength of jaw. The chest should be deep and the legs straight. The tail is docked. Feet are tight and round. Nails need to be kept trimmed on a regular basis. The entire appearance should be that of balance and the movement should always be straight and true, the feet landing straight with no variation sideways. Good movement is always a sign of correct conformation.

The Fox terrier is highly alert and responsive to people. He makes an ideal pet, trustworthy and affectionate. He fits well into family life, undemanding and yet always aware of the members of his household, checking on his family regularly and being observant. Furthermore he usually is quite accepting of other dogs in the household, having been bred as a dog that will run with other dogs. He has excellent watchdog capabilities, giving loud warning of strangers , making such a clamor that he can not be ignored. This dog also makes the perfect “jogger’s dog” as he is hardy and has great endurance, able to run for miles without tiring. He is friendly and outgoing with children and loves to learn new games, often inventing his own games. Fox terriers are quite intelligent and can be easily trained to do tricks. Their size makes them adaptable for agility exercises and they are also a favorite in the sport of flyball. Obedience, utility dogs, show dogs, therapy dogs, dogs for the deaf and hunting dogs…the Fox terrier fits any one of these descriptions.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Dogs