There are 2 kinds of Fox Terriers - smooth and wire. Smooth Fox Terrier is a member of the AKC Terrier Group. They were originally bred to be hunters of small game - fox and rat. These dogs have a strong, sturdy, clean little athletic body with a lot of spirit and personality (and that's an understatement).
Their instinct is to work alone without man's guidance. They love to be with us, but do not need our constant approval. They can and are often aggressive to other dogs - in fact with most other animals of any size.
A Smooth Fox Terrier should always be kept in a securely fenced yard or on a leash when being walked.
They are about 15 inches to 18 inches measured to the shoulder and approximately 15 to 23 pounds in weight and have a short, thick coat that needs only a quick brushing once a week. Many Smooth's live to be 15 or more years old.
Because of their distinct terrier instincts, these dogs loves to bark and dig. He has a tendency to be feisty and defiant at times and possesses a higher than normal prey drive. Socialization is crucial and training should start early!
Smooth Fox Information
The ideal home for this highly active dog breed is a home with a securely fenced yard, though an apartment is adequate as long as he is getting his daily exercise. Several walks a day is necessary for this breed as well as occasional runs.
Country of origin: England Lifespan: 12-15 years Colors: White with black or brown markings Known health problems: Deafness in predominantly white dogs, lens luxation, cataracts, Legg-Pethes
Enjoy a short dog video
Wire Fox Information
The Wire Fox Terrier is a member of the AKC Terrier Group. Wires are very lively little dogs - busy, bouncy, alert, active and always ready for fun.
When they're happy they don't wag their tails - they quiver all over. Another thing about that tail - it is strong enough to be used as a handle to pull them out of any kind of trouble that they may get in.
They have a very high prey drive (remember, they are terriers) and are more dog-aggressive than the Smooth Fox, overall, and can even be quite combative.
Typically, an adult male wire Fox Terrier should not be taller than 15 ½ inches at their shoulder - females are slightly smaller generally speaking. They weigh between 10 to 20 pounds.
See one of these guys in action
Keep in mind that they are a separate dog breed from the Smooth coated Fox Terrier, even though they are the same conformation wise.
This breed is lots of fun for older children (best ages at least 7 or older) who can give it lots of daily play and exercise but are not recommended for families with very young children.
He maintains a very saucy manner and a happy sense of humor even though they were originally used in England as a ratter and a bolter of foxes.
The Wire's coat is crinkled and wiry with a soft undercoat. He needs brushing twice weekly and clipping every few months. They are roughly the same size as the Smooth Fox too.
Apartment living or a small house is fine for this dog breed assuming he is given plenty of daily exercise. A securely fenced yard is another suggested recommendation for owners of this dog breed. Socialization and regular brushing are highly recommended as well.
Country of origin: England Lifespan: 12-15 years Colors: White with black or brown markings Known health problems: Deafness in predominantly white dogs, lens luxation, cataracts, Legg-Pethes, epilepsy, post nasal drip, skin problems
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