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The Smooth Fox Terrier is the quitessential Terrier. One variety of Fox Terrier, the other is the Wire, the Smooth Fox Terrier boasts and ancient history and enthusiastic following. Independent and quite feisty, the breed is not an ideal choice for many homes but for those that seek a companion of vitality and fire, they are a great match.
Overall Appearance: Compact and agile, square built dog of some sturdiness but never heavy. Lithe and nearly wiry.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: very high
General Nature:
friendly, fearless, alert, filled with expectation, reactive, high energy
with Children: highly variable, dependent on socialization, supervision and behavior of children
with other pets: not typically good
with dogs: highly variable
Socialization requirements: very high
Ideal home characteristics: One that enjoys the exuberant charm and entertaining qualities of the breed.
Temperament Notes: Bold to the point of foolhardy, oftentimes the Fox Terrier must be protected from their own impulsiveness.
Training requirement: moderate: socialization and basic manners
Trainer notes: Terriers in general may number among the most challenging to train, not because they lack intelligence (oh they have that in abundance) or good temperaments(rare that you will find a more confident and willing participant) but because their sense of intrigue, curiousity and independence will run circles around all but the most adept of trainers. The Fox Terrier is no exception. Keeping sessions short and EXTREMELY fun is likely the only way to maintain the attention of the Fox Terrier long enough to accomplish anything. Once the dog enjoys the task for the sake of the fun of it (such as Agility) it can become easier but never easy.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: ancient
Country of Origin: difficult to verify but known in ancient Rome
Original Function: hunter of fox and other vermin
History: Mentioned by Pliny the Elder (of Rome) in his Natural History. Clearly a breed of antiquity.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard:
Health Notes: Cushings disease, bloat, eye problems, tendency to ear infections,allergies, hip/elbow dysplasia
