The smooth-haired fox terrier: a bundle of temperament on four paws
Who is the smooth-haired fox terrier suitable for?
The smooth-haired fox terrier is perfect for active people and families who spend a lot of time outdoors. Due to its lively and energetic nature, it needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. This breed is less suitable for people who lead a rather quiet life or have little time for regular, long walks.
Character: A dog with personality
The smooth-haired Fox Terrier is known for its lively and cheerful character. They are curious, intelligent and extremely courageous. These dogs are also known for their playfulness and sharp mind, which makes them wonderful companions. However, they can also be strong willed and sometimes tend to be headstrong.
Appearance: Elegant and striking
The smooth-haired Fox Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a smooth, dense coat that is usually white with black or brown markings. Its build is compact and muscular, which gives it impressive agility. The eyes are dark and bright, and the ears are V-shaped and tilted forward.
Grooming: less effort, more fun
Grooming the smooth-haired Fox Terrier is relatively uncomplicated. Its short coat only requires occasional brushing to keep it clean and shiny. However, the ears and teeth should be checked and cared for regularly to prevent infections. The claws also need to be trimmed regularly.
Health: Robust and resilient
The smooth-haired Fox Terrier is generally a healthy breed with an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Nevertheless, they are susceptible to some genetic diseases such as hip dysplasia and eye diseases. Regular visits to the vet and a balanced diet are therefore essential to keep your Fox Terrier healthy.
Size and weight: Small but mighty
Male smooth-haired fox terriers reach a shoulder height of around 39 cm and a weight of around 8 kg. Females are often somewhat smaller and lighter. Despite their small size, they are extremely robust and hardy.
Exercise and activity: a bundle of energy
This breed needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks, games and training sessions are a must. The smooth-haired Fox Terrier is well suited to life in the city as long as it gets enough exercise and activity. A house with a garden would be ideal, but is not a must if enough time is planned for outdoor activities.
Training: consistency and fun
The smooth-haired Fox Terrier is intelligent and eager to learn, but can also be stubborn. Consistent and positive training is the key. Puppy school and early socialization are important to encourage good behavior and obedience. Due to their high energy levels, dog sports such as agility are also ideal.
Behavioral characteristics: Family dog and hunter
Smooth-haired Fox Terriers are very social and generally get along well with children and other pets. However, their strong hunting instinct can be a problem if they are not properly trained and socialized. Early socialization is therefore crucial to ensure that they are comfortable and behave appropriately in different situations.
Recognition by the FCI
Yes, the smooth-haired fox terrier is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and is listed in Group 3 (Terriers) and Section 1 (High-coated Terriers). This confirms its standards and helps to maintain breed compliance.
