Smooth Fox Terrier -
Light-Hearted And Eager To Please!
Background And Description:
The Smooth Fox Terrier was bred to run with the hounds and horsemen on fox hunts. Its job was
to pursue the fox both above and below ground until he was able to successfully bolt it out
of the den. They have also been known for their entertaining abilities as circus performers,
and some still are today.
It is a fairly old breed from England - one early record depicts
its likeness in a painting from 1790.
Other breeds thought to be instrumental in its
development include the smooth-coated Black and Tan Terrier, the Beagle, the Greyhound, and
the Bull Terrier.
Well-balanced and athletic in appearance, this canine epitomizes the image
of a dog. Some will be familiar the RCA trademark picture of him, shown below, as the dog
listening to "His Master's Voice" through a gramophone.
Appearance:
The Smooth fox terrier stands 15.5 inches in height and weighs
between 16-18 lbs, with coat colors mostly white or all white and often with tan or black
markings.
Coat and Care:
The coat is smooth in appearance and abundant. Its texture is hard and it lies flat. Shedding
is moderate. Brush and comb to remove loose hair. Rubbing down with a chamois cloth will keep
the coat glossy.
Personality and Traits:
You have to get up pretty early to keep pace with a Smooth Fox Terrier. This is one dog both
quick of mind and body and a barrel of energy. Full of life and very affectionate, they love
to play and are happiest being the center of attention. Don't leave the Fox Terrier alone too
much as they can easily get bored and that often leads to mischief and barking.
They are very confident and intelligent dogs and like to be in charge. Owners should firmly
establish themselves as the boss. After that is understood, these smart guys can learn
anything. Early socialization is important to balance out their tendency to be dog-aggressive.
Their keen alertness makes them useful as watchdogs.
Activity Level:
Very active breed that requires a good amount of daily exercise. Any opportunity to run free
in a securely fenced area is great for them.
Space Needs:
The Smooth Fox Terrier is adaptable to any accommodations provided sufficient exercise is
given. This terrier has very strong hunting instincts so if you have property, boundaries
should be secure to prevent escape routes.
Children:
Good with older considerate children - will happily join in their games, but play should be
supervised at all times by an adult.
Elderly:
Although noted for their loyalty, the Smooth Fox Terrier is most likely too energetic for a
sedentary household.
Reading And Viewing Recommendations:
Smooth Fox Terrier, A Reliable HandbookCurrent resource covering breed history and
standard, characteristics and pet attributes, grooming, puppy care, housetraining, nutrition,
basic obedience training, health care and the potential disorders that may concern the breed.
Lots of color photos.
AKC Smooth Fox Terrier VideoA video presentation from the AKC covering aspects of the
breed standard, related to structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size,
etc. Does not cover training, breeding or care information. May be brief mention of
temperament. A good reference for those with interest in showing the breed.
Share Your Smooth Fox Terrier Pictures
Visit
Smilebox.com and create amazing greetings with your dog photos, videos, and music. Email them free.
If you are quick enough your might be able to photograph this lively dog as he flashes by!
If you do, he's a handsome dog well worth showing off your photos with family and friends.
Now there is a creative and easy way to pass along these family treasures using Smilebox, a system that lets you easily create amazing dog ecards
greetings or invitations, announce a new dog with a slideshow or e-postcard, make dog e-scrapbooks, send
dog e-birthday cards, thank you cards, and much, much more. Use it for family photos and
occasions as well.
Visit Smilebox.com and try this amazing free service today!
Go on, give it a try - you'll be glad you did!
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