Fox Terrier

Important information about Fox Terriers

A Fox Terrier is available both as smooth-haired and rough-haired, but although their coats are different, their minds are the same. Both types are happy dogs with a high energy level and a big family heart.

Despite its original status as a hunting dog, it is now more of a companion dog. However, the hunting instinct is still in its nature and is reflected in its behavior. If you buy a Fox Terrier, you get a small and active dog that needs activation and is extremely loyal to its owner.

It is therefore no wonder that many families choose this particular breed of dog, as it is both agile, easy to learn and happy to play. A perfect dog for the active family.

Rough-haired or smooth-haired Fox Terrier

The rough-haired Fox Terrier originally comes from England. Its breeding pedigree is not 100% clear, but it is believed to be a cross between a white English Terrier, a Bull Terrier and a Beagle. The smooth-haired Fox Terrier's origin is clearer. It is bred from four different dog breeds: English Terrier, smooth coated black and tan terrier, Bull Terrier and Beagle.

Both types were bred on the basis that hunters wanted an agile and skilled hunting dog that was small enough to be able to access holes underground to hunt foxes from their holes. That is why it has also been given the name Fox Terrier.

The two have for many years been interpreted as the same breed (with two different fur types), as their nature, history and past behavior are very similar. But nevertheless, they are two different breeds. In this text they will be separated when it makes sense to describe the two types separately.

Know your Fox Terrier

Because of its former status as a hunting dog, the Fox Terrier is a very energetic and teachable dog. It is a dog that needs activation and training, but if you make sure you train it in a loving and consistent way, you will get a well-behaved, playful and loyal family dog.

The dog is by nature a lively, curious and energetic breed. Since it was bred for hunting, it comes with a good amount of gunpowder that needs to be burned off during the day. It is incredibly responsive, teachable and loyal. In modern times, it has also become a companion dog, which is happy with people of all ages, and easily adapts to activities and rhythms in a family.

However, in order to get a well-behaved Fox Terrier that suits your needs, you need to start training early. At the puppy stage, it is a good idea to train socialization, obedience and calling. This is because a Fox Terrier puppy is already eager to learn.

A good way to satisfy the energy needs of your Fox Terrier is to start sports training, agility or dog training when the dog gets older. These activities will ensure that it fulfils its need for activation. Other ways to activate a Fox Terrier are through play with family members or training at home. To support these activities, it is useful to acquire equipment such as a dog whistle, balls and/or a treat bag, as it loves rewards.

If you ensure an active everyday life, you will get a Fox Terrier who loves to play with you and your children, will do everything to meet your needs, looks after your land and loves being part of the family.

Fox Terriers physical characteristics and care needs

Fox Terriers are small dogs. They measure approximately between 36 and 48 centimeters and weigh between 6.5 and 8.5 kilos. They come in the colors white, black, white with markings of tan or tan/black. Both coat types are robust with long faces and ears that fold forward towards the snout.

A rough-haired Fox Terrier has a long and tough top coat with a soft undercoat. It needs to be trimmed 3-4 times a year. By that it is meant that only the harsh coat is pulled off. Conversely, if you cut this fur, the fur will become curled, gray and lose its ability to repel dirt and grime. It is therefore important to do this with the correct trimming tools.

A smooth-haired Fox Terrier, on the other hand, has short and smooth hair. Both Fox Terriers need normal care which includes washing, clipping nails and brushing teeth and other basic things. This is best done with products that suit the dog's coat and size.

In addition, it is a good idea to ensure that your Fox Terrier receives a diet suitable for its size and energy level. Then you ensure good health and quality of life.