small Breed Dogs
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Smooth Fox Terrier
Average Weight:  Under 18 lbs. (8.16 kg)
Average Height: Under 15.5 inches (39.37 cm)
Pronounced:    Smouth  Faux    TEH-ree-er
Group:  Terrier
Life Span: 14 Years
Average Litter: 4
Origin: England

Description

This is a separate breed from the Toy Fox Terrier and is a separate breed than the Wire Fox Terrier.

The Smooth Fox Terrier has the appearance of a happy, lively, active dog.  He has bone and strength in a small body.  He stands like a cleverly made hunter, covering a lot of ground and yet having a short back.  His flat skull is moderately narrow, gradually decreasing in width to the eyes. The eyes are deep set, dark and full of fire and intelligence. 

The ears are V-shaped, small and thick, they drop forward and hang close to the cheek.  The tail is naturally long and is docked in some countries. 

Color Information

The colors of the Fox Terrier are white, black and tan in various combination that makes one wonder if any two ever look the same. White is the predominant color.

Personality

 Fox Terriers, in general, have a great sense of humor. And many make funny yawning noises to their owners.  If they find out that you think something is funny, they will do it again and again to amuse you.  Loving attention, but not being your shadow, they just love to perform. This is a very entertaining dog who loves to play.

Very affectionate with his human family, he can become jealous and is not afraid to show it.  He is energetic and playful, an owner should have the stamina to keep up with this small dog. He may need supervision when playing with young children due to a tendency to jump while happy.

This small breed dog is usually very territorial and will protect objects, places and food, even from his owner. 

Origin & History

For many years in the USA, the Smooth Fox Terrier was considered the same breed as the Wire Fox Terrier; it was thought that they only had different coats.  It is now widely accepted that this is a distinct breed that originated from a different source.   It is believed that the Smooth Coat Terrier's ancestors were the Black and Tan Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the Greyhound and perhaps surprisingly, the Beagle.  In 1984, the AKC approved separate status for the Smooth and Wire Fox Terriers.

Health

This is a generally an extremely healthy breed.   Issues the breed may be prone to are:
  • Post nasal drip
  • Lens luxation - The eye lens slips out of place
  • Distichiasis - A growth of extra eye lashes
  • Cataracts
  • Legg-Calves Perthes Disease -  A condition in which the hip joint is malformed
  • Shoulder dislocation
    Exercise

    This is a high energy dog who loves participating in many activites, including agility and flyball.  He loves to run free, so needs a safe place in which to exercise off of the leash.

    Grooming
      The Smooth Fox Terrier  has a short coat  that is easy to care for and should be brushed with a firm bristle brush to remove hair that is shedding.  Teeth are brushed 1 time per day, baths are given every 2-3 weeks and nails are checked for trimming every 6-7 weeks.

      Shedding

      This small dog is considered  a minimal shedder. Brushing will help to keep shedding under control.

      Care & Training

      Care must be taken to always walk with a leash, as he is apt to give chase to small creatures such as birds, squirrels, etc.  For this reason, an owner must be patience, firm, consistent and train with proper techniques.   


      If you are thinking about getting a puppy, you may wish to read some important information about purchasing a puppy. Just click here.

      If you already own a Fox Terrier or other small dog, you may wish to click here for more detailed are information.
                   
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