Fox Terrier
Compiled and researched by Izelle de Klerk (BSc) - Dodgy Dogs & Crazy Cats
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Fox Terrier refers primarily to two different breeds of the terrier dog type - the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier, both of these breeds originated in England during the 19th century. Historically, they were used to "bolt" foxes when they ran into their hiding places and drive them toward the foxhounds and hunters. White Smooth Fox Terriers were highly prized because they were less likely to be mistaken for the fox. Wires were favored for hunting in rough country, their coats making them less vulnerable to injury than their smooth-coated counterparts.
For many years, Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier were considered one breed of two varieties, but this changed in 1985 when they were officially listed as two separate breeds. They were also originally commonly interbred, but this no longer occurs in pure-bred lines.
Both breeds are essentially the same except for differences in coats type and, to some extent, head shape. Both are white with coloured markings; the markings on either type can appear black at birth, but may lighten in adult life - the most common colours being tan and black.
Despite their similarities in size, shape and temperament, they likely had different ancestry.
Smooth Fox Terrier
Breeders didn't keep many records about the development of this breed, but it is likely that the original Smooth Fox Terriers were a blend of black and tan terriers with smooth coats, Bull Terriers, Greyhounds, and Beagles.
The Smooth Fox Terrier has a short, hard coat with a long, wedge shaped head, small dark eyes and v-shaped ears.
Wire Fox Terrier
Wire Fox Terriers are thought to have descended from rough-coated black and tan terriers from Wales, Derbyshire, and Durham. Early breeders then crossed them with Smooth Fox Terriers to give them more white pigmentation, a cleaner-cut head, and a more classical outline.
They have a hard and crisp double coat with a coarse texture underneath that provides protection from the cold. It should be so dense that the skin cannot be seen or felt and the individual hairs should twist, but are not curly. It has similar features to the Smooth Fox Terrier with small dark eyes and v-shaped ears.
Personality
Smooth Fox Terriers are sleek, elegant, and intelligent, while Wire Fox Terriers are handsome, happy, and quite stylish when groomed properly. Called Foxys for short, both are outgoing, active, inquisitive, with a devil-may-care attitude.These are alert, lively little dogs that live in the moment and enjoying whatever's going on. However they are prone to mischief and being charming but sly they can outwit you, yet leave you laughing at his antics.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
Despite being small dogs they are not suited to apartment life, they need at least a medium size yard where they can run off all their energy during the day. Make sure that the yard is securely fenced and periodically check your fence to make sure they haven't been digging an escape route. Fox Terriers are escape artists, they can jump higher than you might think and will dig holes or otherwise try to escape from their yards.
Because of their smarts and stamina, they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They have high energetic levels and need about 30 to 45 minutes of vigorous exercise each day, as well as plenty of off-leash play in the yard. They enjoy going for walks and make great jogging or running partners. They also love toys and will play fetch until they drop, many adore playing in water and can swim quite well. A good way to stimulate them mentally (as well as physically) is to participate in dog sporting events like agility, obedience, flyball and earthdog trails. If they do not get the physical and mental exercise they need they can develop destructive behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing and digging.
These dogs have strong hunting instincts and will chase anything that moves - they have no road sense and will run in front of a car while chasing a bird or cat. And, being Terriers, they have no trouble picking a fight with other dogs - even ones that is twice their size. Always keep them on lead unless you are in an area where it is save to let them off
Fox Terriers make excellent watchdogs, they will sound an alarm if they hear or see anything amiss in their territory. However, they can become nuisance barkers - especially if they are left alone for too long in the yard by themselves. They will also protect their families with all they have but will not necessarily protect the house if you are not home.
Like with all dogs, Fox Terriers need proper socialization when they're still puppies to help them grow into well-rounded adults as well as prevent aggression toward other dogs.
These little dogs have a lot of self-confidence and love to explore; they will dig, chase the cat, get mud prints all over your just washed floors, raid the kitchen table and breaking out of the yard. But despite this they make loyal companions that are small enough to take just about anywhere but big enough for rough and tumble play. They love people and need to be part of the family - they will not do well as outside dogs.
In a nutshell, a Fox Terrier is for you if you:
For many years, Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier were considered one breed of two varieties, but this changed in 1985 when they were officially listed as two separate breeds. They were also originally commonly interbred, but this no longer occurs in pure-bred lines.
Both breeds are essentially the same except for differences in coats type and, to some extent, head shape. Both are white with coloured markings; the markings on either type can appear black at birth, but may lighten in adult life - the most common colours being tan and black.
Despite their similarities in size, shape and temperament, they likely had different ancestry.
Smooth Fox Terrier
Breeders didn't keep many records about the development of this breed, but it is likely that the original Smooth Fox Terriers were a blend of black and tan terriers with smooth coats, Bull Terriers, Greyhounds, and Beagles.
The Smooth Fox Terrier has a short, hard coat with a long, wedge shaped head, small dark eyes and v-shaped ears.
Wire Fox Terrier
Wire Fox Terriers are thought to have descended from rough-coated black and tan terriers from Wales, Derbyshire, and Durham. Early breeders then crossed them with Smooth Fox Terriers to give them more white pigmentation, a cleaner-cut head, and a more classical outline.
They have a hard and crisp double coat with a coarse texture underneath that provides protection from the cold. It should be so dense that the skin cannot be seen or felt and the individual hairs should twist, but are not curly. It has similar features to the Smooth Fox Terrier with small dark eyes and v-shaped ears.
Personality
Smooth Fox Terriers are sleek, elegant, and intelligent, while Wire Fox Terriers are handsome, happy, and quite stylish when groomed properly. Called Foxys for short, both are outgoing, active, inquisitive, with a devil-may-care attitude.These are alert, lively little dogs that live in the moment and enjoying whatever's going on. However they are prone to mischief and being charming but sly they can outwit you, yet leave you laughing at his antics.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
Despite being small dogs they are not suited to apartment life, they need at least a medium size yard where they can run off all their energy during the day. Make sure that the yard is securely fenced and periodically check your fence to make sure they haven't been digging an escape route. Fox Terriers are escape artists, they can jump higher than you might think and will dig holes or otherwise try to escape from their yards.
Because of their smarts and stamina, they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They have high energetic levels and need about 30 to 45 minutes of vigorous exercise each day, as well as plenty of off-leash play in the yard. They enjoy going for walks and make great jogging or running partners. They also love toys and will play fetch until they drop, many adore playing in water and can swim quite well. A good way to stimulate them mentally (as well as physically) is to participate in dog sporting events like agility, obedience, flyball and earthdog trails. If they do not get the physical and mental exercise they need they can develop destructive behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing and digging.
These dogs have strong hunting instincts and will chase anything that moves - they have no road sense and will run in front of a car while chasing a bird or cat. And, being Terriers, they have no trouble picking a fight with other dogs - even ones that is twice their size. Always keep them on lead unless you are in an area where it is save to let them off
Fox Terriers make excellent watchdogs, they will sound an alarm if they hear or see anything amiss in their territory. However, they can become nuisance barkers - especially if they are left alone for too long in the yard by themselves. They will also protect their families with all they have but will not necessarily protect the house if you are not home.
Like with all dogs, Fox Terriers need proper socialization when they're still puppies to help them grow into well-rounded adults as well as prevent aggression toward other dogs.
These little dogs have a lot of self-confidence and love to explore; they will dig, chase the cat, get mud prints all over your just washed floors, raid the kitchen table and breaking out of the yard. But despite this they make loyal companions that are small enough to take just about anywhere but big enough for rough and tumble play. They love people and need to be part of the family - they will not do well as outside dogs.
In a nutshell, a Fox Terrier is for you if you:
- Don’t mind the dog barking
- Want a small energetic dog that that will do anything and go anywhere with you
- Are active and want a dog that can keep up
- Can give them the exercise they need
- Want a dog that is easy to groom (smooth coat)
- Want a dog that does not have a lot of health problems
- Want a good watch dog
- Are willing to spend the time socializing and training them
- Don’t mind a dog that can be quite a hand full and needs regular checking up on
- Don’t have small children
- Have a house with a yard
Where do I get my pup from?
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA). They have a list of breeders who have puppies available.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Fox Terrier?
These dogs will get along with most other dogs as long as they have been socialized properly from a young age.
The best option is a dog that is not very dominating or challenging; like a Pitbull or Staffie; as they will not back down from a challenge. Terrier breeds on average do not get on well with one another either.
Good breeds to go for will be one that is hardy and playful with a high-energy temperament; like another Fox Terrier, Boxer, Labrador, etc.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble - (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another. Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
Fox Terriers can do well with dogs and/or cats that they have been raised with, however, the terrier in them will not hesitate to pick fights - even with much larger dogs - and they will fight to the end.
They are not the best choice for homes with pets such as rabbits, hamsters, birds, guinea pigs, etc. because of their breeding they are prone to chasing and killing these pets. Even the family cat that they grew up with will be chased if the cat runes from the dog.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly on how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
While they're loyal to their families and friendly towards people and children, they are not recommended for families with small children.
Although they love playing with children they are too rough and energetic to play with young children. Also children's high-pitched voices and tendency to run can make them look like prey, inciting the Fox Terrier to bite in excitement. They can also be protective of their food and toys, which can cause problems. Always supervise any interactions between these dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear pulling from either party.
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA). They have a list of breeders who have puppies available.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Fox Terrier?
These dogs will get along with most other dogs as long as they have been socialized properly from a young age.
The best option is a dog that is not very dominating or challenging; like a Pitbull or Staffie; as they will not back down from a challenge. Terrier breeds on average do not get on well with one another either.
Good breeds to go for will be one that is hardy and playful with a high-energy temperament; like another Fox Terrier, Boxer, Labrador, etc.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble - (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
- Bond with each other to the exclusion of you
- Will stress without the other dog being around
- Fight with each other
- Be more destructive and boisterous
- Two pups together often leads to one being more assertive and the other more submissive. This could well end up in a situation where the more submissive dog will never develop its full potential.
- Mature later
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another. Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
Fox Terriers can do well with dogs and/or cats that they have been raised with, however, the terrier in them will not hesitate to pick fights - even with much larger dogs - and they will fight to the end.
They are not the best choice for homes with pets such as rabbits, hamsters, birds, guinea pigs, etc. because of their breeding they are prone to chasing and killing these pets. Even the family cat that they grew up with will be chased if the cat runes from the dog.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly on how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
While they're loyal to their families and friendly towards people and children, they are not recommended for families with small children.
Although they love playing with children they are too rough and energetic to play with young children. Also children's high-pitched voices and tendency to run can make them look like prey, inciting the Fox Terrier to bite in excitement. They can also be protective of their food and toys, which can cause problems. Always supervise any interactions between these dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear pulling from either party.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
Although they're highly intelligent, they're also willful, so Fox Terriers can be challenging to train. Be patient and keep your sense of humor handy. They thrive on consistency and routine, so providing clear rules and enforcing them in a firm and positive way will produce the most progress. Once you've unlocked the secret to motivating them, they can learn anything you can teach.
They can be hard to housetrain so crate training is recommended.
Grooming
Smooth Fox Terrier
They have a smooth, hard, dense coat that shed very little and only needs occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush to keep them looking neat. Bath only when necessary as regular bathing removes their natural oils and can cause the skin to dry out.
Wire Fox Terrier
They have a dense, wiry coat that shed very little but needs to be brushed regularly to keep their coats clean and odor-free.
To get the show-coat texture that they are known for, the coat needs to be hand stripped - meaning the hair is plucked out rather than cut with scissors or clippers. This is a job that most people turn over to a professional groomer, although you can learn to do it yourself.
Another option is to have your dog in a pet-coat, this is where the coat is clipped. You should know, however, that clipping the coat changes the wiry texture, making the coat feel soft, and may cause the colors to look pale - so if you are planning on showing your dog clipping is not recommended.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. You also need to clean their teeth about once a week as well as trim their nail if they don’t wear them down naturally. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
Fox Terriers are a hardy breed in general, with no major health concerns. However, some dogs are affected by the following conditions.
Life expectancy
A healthy dog can live for 15 years or more
Interesting Facts
Do`s and Don`ts of this breed
Do’s
Don’ts
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/smooth-fox-terrier.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fox_Terrier
http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/fox-terrier
Training
Although they're highly intelligent, they're also willful, so Fox Terriers can be challenging to train. Be patient and keep your sense of humor handy. They thrive on consistency and routine, so providing clear rules and enforcing them in a firm and positive way will produce the most progress. Once you've unlocked the secret to motivating them, they can learn anything you can teach.
They can be hard to housetrain so crate training is recommended.
Grooming
Smooth Fox Terrier
They have a smooth, hard, dense coat that shed very little and only needs occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush to keep them looking neat. Bath only when necessary as regular bathing removes their natural oils and can cause the skin to dry out.
Wire Fox Terrier
They have a dense, wiry coat that shed very little but needs to be brushed regularly to keep their coats clean and odor-free.
To get the show-coat texture that they are known for, the coat needs to be hand stripped - meaning the hair is plucked out rather than cut with scissors or clippers. This is a job that most people turn over to a professional groomer, although you can learn to do it yourself.
Another option is to have your dog in a pet-coat, this is where the coat is clipped. You should know, however, that clipping the coat changes the wiry texture, making the coat feel soft, and may cause the colors to look pale - so if you are planning on showing your dog clipping is not recommended.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. You also need to clean their teeth about once a week as well as trim their nail if they don’t wear them down naturally. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
Fox Terriers are a hardy breed in general, with no major health concerns. However, some dogs are affected by the following conditions.
- Deafness is often a problem with predominantly white dogs.
- Cataracts are an opacity on the lens of the eye that causes difficulty in seeing. The eye(s) of the dog will have a cloudy appearance. Cataracts usually occur in old age and sometimes can be surgically removed to improve the dog's vision.
- Legg-Perthes disease is a deformity of the ball of the hip. It causes wearing and arthritis. It can be repaired surgically, and the prognosis is good with the help of rehabilitation therapy afterward.
- Lens Luxation is when the lens of the eye becomes displaced when the ligament holding it in place deteriorates. It's sometimes treatable with medication or surgery, but in severe cases the eye may need to be removed.
- Hip dysplasia is a heritable condition in which the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Veterinary care includes supplements and medications to help lessen the pain of arthritis and, in some cases, surgery.
- Obesity, they like to eat and can become overweight. Be sure to monitor their food intake and give them regular exercise to keep them in shape.
Life expectancy
A healthy dog can live for 15 years or more
Interesting Facts
- Fox Terriers are a fairly rare breed. If you're buying a puppy, you may find it hard to track down a good breeder — and even when you find one, you may have to wait several months for a litter to be born.
- Caesar, a Wire Fox Terrier, was beloved of England's King Edward VII. He wore a collar with the inscription "I am Caesar. I belong to the King." When Edward died in 1910, a grieving Caesar marched behind his casket in the funeral procession.
- The most successful dog at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was Ch. Warren Remedy, who won the Best in Show title three times between 1907 and 1909. These victories were followed by a further Best in Show title for Ch. Sabine Rarebit in 1910. Despite the Smooth Fox Terrier breed winning the first four Best in Show titles at Westminster, it has not won again since.
Do`s and Don`ts of this breed
Do’s
- Start socializing and training while they are still puppies
- Give them lots of exercise and mental stimulation
- Include them in family activities
Don’ts
- Leave them alone for long periods of time
- Leave them unsupervised with young children or small pets
- Keep them indoors
- Let them off lead unless it is safe to do so
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/smooth-fox-terrier.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fox_Terrier
http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/fox-terrier