Brief description of the breed
The appearance of the Fox Terrier has not changed much since the end of the 18th century, when the breed was bred. The breed itself is divided into two types: smooth-haired and wire-haired. Smooth Fox Terrier has a soft, smooth coat that gives the dog an elegant look. Wirehaired Fox Terrier has a more stylish look, but requires more attention in matters of hair care. Both varieties are very friendly and sociable, they are very active and inquisitive. The main difference between these two fox terriers is only the coat, and how to care for it. Otherwise, these dogs are almost the same.
The Smooth Fox Terrier has a smooth or rough coat that hardly sheds. The coat of these dogs is very dense. Its density in the normal state of the hair should be such that it is difficult for you to see the skin when parting the hair with your fingers. This is due to the fact that healthy dogs of this breed have a short but fairly dense undercoat.
Previously, white was especially valued among fox terriers of various varieties. Today, according to the official breed description, these dogs can be black, brown and black-brown in color with spotted patches. As a rule, representatives of this breed have a solid color, but, as already noted, blotches of a different color are allowed, so this color is also considered the norm. Most often, fox terriers have marks on the muzzle and ears.
But as for the brindle and red colors, such a color is not entirely desirable for dogs of this breed. The same applies to the fawn color. The presence of this color, respectively, is not an indicator of the "uniqueness" of the dog. The coloring will not affect the development of the dog and its condition in any way, but you should not pay extra to the seller for a "rare" color.
The smooth-haired fox terrier is somewhat less common. This may seem strange, because it was the smooth-haired, and not the wire-haired fox terrier, that was officially recognized as a separate breed by the English Kennel Club in 1875.
Fox terriers were indispensable assistants to hunters. These active dogs managed to pull the hidden fox out of the hole. Hunting took place in not very favorable conditions, so smooth-haired fox terriers were more vulnerable than their wire-haired counterparts. Today, the breed is practically not used during hunting, but the hunting instincts of the dog have not dried up. The owners of such pets will definitely notice with what pleasure the dogs dig holes, trying to find prey in them, for example, a mole.
The breed is distinguished by good health and endurance. Puppies, as a rule, are not particularly picky, they fit perfectly into the family. These are pets who love to play with children, they are active, and sometimes even picky about their fellows. Of course, fox terriers need timely socialization. The relationship of the dog with other pets will depend on this.
Fox terrier - confident and boundlessly curious dog. Such a craving for knowledge of everything around obliges the owner to take care of a reliable fence, which should become an obstacle to the pet's boundless desire to break out to explore the world. In addition, the activity of the dog indicates the insecurity of walking with a fox terrier without a leash, which will protect you from having to catch the chasing cat pet through the streets.
The sharp mind of the dog was the reason for the ease of training fox terriers. They just "grab everything on the fly." Pets will be happy to perform various commands and tricks, but training must be approached with full responsibility and professionalism.
Dogs of this breed need a lot of active exercise. Since the energy of fox terriers simply splashes out, it must be realized. If you want your dog to be healthy and obedient, then he must be tired from exercise. True, most likely, the owner will be the first to get tired, not the dog.
Fox Terriers make good watchdogs. The dog will bark until he sees the reaction of the owner. It is necessary to accustom the animal to watchdog skills from an early age. Only in this case, you can sleep peacefully, knowing that a reliable guard is standing guard over your home.
basic information
| Breed name: | Fox terrier |
| Country of origin: | United Kingdom |
| The time of the birth of the breed: | late 18th century |
| Type of: | terriers |
| The weight: | 6 – 8 kg |
| Height (height at the withers): | 35 - 40 cm |
| Life Expectancy: | 12 - 14 years old |
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ICF classification:
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Group 3, Section 1, Number 12/169 |
| Puppies price: | 120 – 1100 $ |
| Most popular nicknames: | list of nicknames for the fox terrier |
Assessment of breed characteristics
| Adaptability
(a definition meaning how easily a dog can adapt to changes in life) |
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| Shedding level
(Level and frequency of hair loss in the animal) |
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| Tenderness level
(The level and amount of tenderness and affection that the dog gives in return for attention to itself) |
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| Exercise needs
(Dog's daytime activity level) |
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| Social need
(The required number of contacts of the dog with other animals, as well as people) |
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| Apartment content
(A factor that determines the level of noise and other inconveniences that a dog can deliver to owners in relation to the size of the apartment to the size of the dog) |
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| Grooming
(The number of bathing, brushing, and the number of professional grooming sessions required for the dog) |
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| Friendliness in an unfamiliar environment
(Features of the behavior of a dog in a society with strangers or in an unfamiliar environment) |
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| Tendency to bark
(Tendency to bark and its frequency and volume) |
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| Health issues
(Potential health status of the dog) |
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| Territoriality
(The dog's tendency to protect his home, yard, or even his owner's car) |
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| Friendliness to cats
(The tendency towards tolerance for cats and decreased manifestation of hunting instincts) |
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| Intelligence
(The ability of the dog to think and solve emerging difficulties (not to be confused with learning!) |
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| Education and training
(The level of difficulty in training the dog to perform certain actions) |
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| Friendliness to children
(A factor that determines how friendly a dog is to children, whether he likes to play with them and tolerate some childish pranks) |
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| Game activity
(The concept is determined by its very name, and, as a rule, is found in almost all dogs) |
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| Observation
(The ability of a dog to detect the presence of a stranger on its territory) |
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| Friendliness to other dogs
(The tendency of the dog to find common language with his other relatives) |
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Fox Terrier photo:
The history of the origin of the breed
The history of the origin of the fox terrier is full of interesting events. These dogs were faithful companions of kings, entertained a crowded audience in the circus, were permanent participants in various dog shows.
When fox hunting in England reached its peak in the late 18th century, hunters realized that they needed a dog that could pull prey out of a hole. As a result, the smooth-haired fox terrier was bred.
There is no exact information about the first puppies of this breed. But, according to assumptions, the first fox terriers had a black and tan color. In 1790, a portrait of a certain Mr. Colonel Thornton was painted, in which he was depicted with a dog of this breed.
The breed has changed little since those distant times. Over time, breed selection has led to the appearance of wire-haired fox terriers. The main difference between the smooth-haired and wire-haired terrier was the coat itself, as well as the shape of the head, which differed slightly.
Researchers suggest that, despite the external similarity, as well as the same disposition, the smooth-haired and wire-haired fox terriers have different ancestors. There is an opinion that breeders did not initially show wire-haired terriers to the general public.
In 1876, the first Fox Terrier Club was formed in England. Members of this organization have developed a breed standard, which, despite the fact that more than a century has passed, remains unchanged. True, minor changes were made, but they concerned only the weight of the male, which was allowed to participate in various exhibitions.
Fox Terrier named Caesar was the favorite pet of King Edward VII. The dog wore a collar with the inscription "I - Caesar. I belong to the king." After Edward's death in 1910, the dog was very sad, and during the funeral ceremony, Caesar dutifully followed the owner's coffin with eyes full of pain.
Fox Terrier character
The confident and inquisitive nature of the fox terrier can bring some dirty tricks into family life. For example, there are cases of "raids" on the kitchen table or flower bed. Keep in mind that puppies are just as active as adult dogs. Therefore, you will need a lot of time and attention to educate these dogs.
Dogs of this breed are distinguished by their activity, responsiveness and intelligence. They are prone to mischief, while they are very charming and just as cunning. A fox terrier can outwit anyone, sometimes such tricks cause many outright laughter. The vigilance of these pets makes them excellent watchmen, but sometimes their vigilance can cause the dog to be annoying.
Fox terriers are very sociable and inquisitive, so these pets are very friendly to people, but without much hesitation sometimes start a fight with their relatives. Fox Terriers, like other dogs, need early socialization. They need to be taught to communicate with people, to introduce them to various objects, sounds, etc. Socialization - a guarantee that your pet will be fully developed.
Maintenance and care
To groom the Smooth Coated Terrier, you will need occasional brushing with a stiff bristled brush. This procedure will keep the coat in good condition. Wirehaired Terriers are less prone to shedding, but regular brushing is also necessary. This will prevent hair contamination and unpleasant odors.
To keep your pet's coat texture looking flawless and up to breed standard, it's best to seek the help of a professional groomer, although anyone can learn the grooming technique.
For those who like to trim their dogs, you should know that when trimming a fox terrier, its coat deteriorates, becomes softer, and the color may fade.
Caring for a dog's claws, in principle, never causes any particular problems. It is enough to trim the claws of the fox terrier as needed. Trimming nails, in addition to hygienic value, is also practical. Often dogs jump on the owner in a fit of tenderness. In such cases, untrimmed nails can scratch or tear clothing.
Training and education
Fox Terrier Health and Disease
Some interesting facts
- fox terriers - lovers of food, and therefore prone to obesity. Control your diet and give your dog enough exercise.
- It is difficult for an unprepared dog breeder to achieve results in training, so it is better to contact a specialist.
- Fox Terriers love to chase small animals. They are also not averse to starting a fight with relatives. When walking, it is better to use a leash.
- If the pet is not socialized, then it should not be left alone with other pets.
- Dogs This breed is very energetic. They need daily active exercise for up to 45 minutes. If the animal does not realize all its energy, then interior and decor items in your home may suffer.
- Despite the fact that fox terriers are very loyal and adore children, nevertheless, while playing with children, the dog, through negligence, can harm the child.
- Fox terrier - quite rare breed. Therefore, to purchase it, you will most likely have to spend a lot of time. Not even every kennel has a puppy for sale. You may need to order it in advance.
Nurseries and breeders
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