This article also relates to: Toy Fox Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier
Little is known about the early development of the Smooth or Wire Fox Terrier, although the speculation surrounding its ancestry is well documented. Whilst some classify the two varieties under the same breed, more recent evidence suggests that the two are genetically unrelated, having distinctly different forebears. Thought to have developed in the 18th century, the Fox Terrier is depicted in a portrait by Colonel Thornton in 1790, pin-pointing its very first reference. Thought to be the result of crossing between the Dachshund, English Hound and later the Beagle and Fox Hound, the Fox Terrier quickly established a concrete reputation for itself as a bold and willing fox hunter, bolting them from their den for the hunter to shoot or the hounds to track. The breed was officially recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
Muscular and athletic, despite its small to medium-sized frame, the Fox Terrier is an adaptable working dog, eager to please it master and family. With strong, straight legs, a high-set tail and a slightly sloping topline, the Fox Terrier is distinctive and functional, with a narrow frame that would have enabled it to maneuver into dens to bolt its quarry. Despite being an illegal practice across Europe, tail 'docking' is commonly observed in the breed. The coat is either smooth or wiry, depending on the breed variety, and is seen in white with black or brown markings. Only a moderate shedder, the Fox Terrier is a suitable choice for the house proud.
Inherently vigilant to change and threat, the Fox Terrier makes an excellent watch dog. Its prey drive and tendency to chase smaller animals is strong, so early training against this is imperative. Otherwise, the Fox Terrier possesses a friendly, fun-loving temperament that renders it well suited to active family life. In order to discourage destructive behaviours around the home, regular exercise, mental enrichment and human companionship is essential. Despite its varied ancestry, the breed boasts the attitude of a typical Terrier, being inquisitive, energetic, responsive and eager to please. On average, a healthy Fox Terrier will weigh 6-9 kg, with a life expectancy of 15 years - an expectancy that is often outlived.
Genetically very healthy, the Fox Terrier is susceptible to few breed-specific complaints. Those it does suffer from include optical abnormalities, hearing loss, seizures, and orthopedic complaints. Congenital heart conditions are also prevalent in the breed.
![[REDACTED] [REDACTED]'s Smooth Fox Terrier - Maisie](http://static2.viovet.co.uk/opt/s=kr/petphotos/23769_b14d6d6a01918a3a7f0ef292e3cbfd5a.jpg)
From Cornwall, United Kingdom
Ki loves to be close to me, where ever I go he goes to, literally. He sleeps with me, usually under the covers until he gets too hot and then I wrap him in his own covers on top of the bed but he must be touching me so he knows I am still there. Any slight movement from myself then he is straight off the bed/sofa or chair in readiness to follow me. He is so loyal and loves to be stroked and play with his toys even though he is getting older now he still acts like a youngster. He must have some Chihuahua as he has a very small snout. It is quite difficult to get a muzzle to fit when he goes to the vet as he does not like them very much. I found out after 3 months of having him that the breeder that I purchased him from went to prison for importing and exporting puppies, I strongly believe he is an import due to some dysfunctional behaviour that I have worked on for years but he is still insecure so cannot trust him fully with others as he looks to me for comfort. He constantly barks at the window if he hears a car or someones voice. If you love an animal which is full of energy, all the time. He needs to be taken out as much as some big dogs do. He is incredibly fast, he can get across a football pitch in a blink of an eye. He is a bit obstinate and training can be a hit and miss but it is a case of keep going as sometimes I think he is thick but he's not. You can almost see the cogs in his brain working when you look straight into those eyes. He is extremely loyal, even though I am retired so I am at home with him all day but for the little trip up the road, he gives me the best welcome and almost whimpers he is so pleased to see me, and that is only 10 minutes trying to find something in the car. He do not believe he suffers separation anxiety as I have set up gates at times to show him that I would be back. For example, before he could get up the stairs I would carry him as he was too small. Once big enough I would leave him downstairs whilst I made the beds, he would almost howl. I would pop my head over the banister to say hi but resume what I was doing until I was finished. One it taught him to climb the stairs but also taught him with other ways to that even though he could not see me, he was still ok. He still likes to be covered up, he as a large beanie and throw which I wrap him up on and that is his bed. If he gets out and want to get back, he gets his paw and scratches me to let me know that his blanket is messed up and I need to place it back so he can be wrapped up again, how funny this must sound. Anyway, he is my baby, and I love him with all of my heart. Whatever happened to him as a puppy, everyday I make sure he never feels like that again. He had a broken tail and a hernia, I believe he was not the age she said he was as he was tiny, sat perfectly in my hand and I have small hands. I also have had many animals in my life especially dogs when I was a child so I have a fair knowledge on them in general. I hope you enjoyed reading this, sorry if you didn't.