Smooth Fox Terrier

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Spirited and bold terrier originally bred to bolt foxes from their dens, the Smooth Fox Terrier brings real working drive into a compact companion.
• Highly intelligent and quick to learn, but also independent and cheeky, which keeps training fun and sometimes challenging.
• Athletic, springy build with a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for and does not trap much dirt.
• Very people focused and often clownish at home, yet can be intense around small animals due to a strong prey instinct.
• Needs proper exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent boundaries to thrive as a confident and happy family dog.

Appearance & Coat

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a small to medium sized terrier with a lively and alert expression. At first glance the breed looks athletic and well balanced, without being heavy or coarse. Males generally stand around 39 centimeters at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller. Weight is usually in the range of 7 to 8 kilograms, although it is better to think in terms of condition rather than numbers. A fit Smooth Fox Terrier should feel lean and muscular under your hands, with a natural springiness in movement.

The outline of the breed is slightly longer than tall, but the impression is one of compact power. The head is long, flat, and wedge shaped with a fairly narrow skull and a strong, clean muzzle. Eyes are dark and full of mischief, never large or staring. Ears are V shaped and fold forward, giving the dog a sharp and attentive look. The neck is clean, of good length, and flows into a straight, strong back and deep chest. Legs should be straight and sturdy, with tight feet and thick pads that can cope with rough ground. Overall, a good Smooth Fox Terrier looks ready to move at any moment.

The coat is one of the breed’s most practical features. It is short, smooth, and dense to the touch, lying close to the body. The hair should not be soft or silky. Instead it feels firm and slightly harsh, which helps protect the skin during work in undergrowth or on tough terrain. The breed is predominantly white, with black, tan, or black and tan markings. Many Smooth Fox Terriers have classic tan points on the face and ears, or well placed patches on the body and base of the tail. Heavy brindle, red, or liver coloring is not typical for the breed.

In terms of coat care, the Smooth Fox Terrier is relatively low maintenance but still benefits from a regular routine. A weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt helps remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny. Because the coat is short, it does not mat, and it dries quickly after rain or a muddy walk. However, the short hair does shed and can work its way into fabrics, so a consistent grooming schedule makes life easier for owners. During seasonal changes, daily brushing for a few minutes can help control shedding.

Bathing is only needed when the dog is genuinely dirty or has rolled in something smelly. A mild dog shampoo is enough, and a thorough rinse is important to avoid skin irritation. Check ears and nails as part of the grooming routine. Ears should be clean and dry with no strong odor, while nails need trimming if they click on hard floors. Some owners lightly trim stray hairs between the pads to reduce trapped dirt, especially if the dog is very active outdoors.

Because the coat gives so little protection from extreme cold, a light, well fitting dog coat can be useful in winter for dogs that feel the chill or for older Smooth Fox Terriers. In warm climates, shade and fresh water are essential, as the close lying coat and active temperament can make them prone to overheating if pushed too hard in the midday sun.

Temperament & Personality

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a classic terrier in temperament. Lively, confident, and often bursting with enthusiasm, this breed rarely fades into the background. Many owners describe them as “larger than life” dogs in a compact body. They love to be at the center of household activity and tend to form close bonds with their people. A well bred and properly socialized Smooth Fox Terrier is outgoing and friendly, curious about visitors, and ready to investigate anything new.

At home, they often show two distinct sides. On one hand, they can be affectionate and cuddly with their family, enjoying sofa time and close physical contact. On the other, their working terrier heritage is always present. They are quick to react to movement or unfamiliar sounds and will often rush to windows or doors to check what is going on. This alert nature makes them effective watchdogs, because they rarely ignore something unusual around the home.

With children, Smooth Fox Terriers can be excellent companions if both dog and child are taught how to behave around one another. Their playful nature, energy, and sometimes clownish behavior appeal to kids, and many will happily join games in the garden or fetch toys for extended periods. However, this is a sturdy, independent minded terrier, not a soft toy. Young children need supervision so that rough handling, grabbing, or teasing does not occur. In return, owners should guide the dog to respect boundaries and to calm down when play gets too excited.

When it comes to other dogs, socialization is extremely important. Smooth Fox Terriers often display same sex rivalry or a strong sense of self confidence that can lead to arguments if not managed. Early exposure to other dogs of various sizes and ages, in positive settings such as well run puppy classes or controlled group walks, helps them learn polite canine manners. Many live successfully with other dogs, but they are generally more suited to households where they are either the only dog or paired carefully with a compatible companion.

With cats and small pets, caution is essential. This breed has been developed to go after quarry, and that instinct remains strong. While some individuals can be raised with a resident cat and learn to accept it, there is usually a clear difference between “our cat” and any other small animal. Free running rabbits, hamsters, or birds are almost always viewed as prey. Future owners who keep small pets should plan carefully and accept that a Smooth Fox Terrier may never be fully trustworthy alone with them.

Common challenges with the breed mostly stem from the combination of intelligence, energy, and instinct. Bored Smooth Fox Terriers can become noisy, destructive, or inventive in ways that are not always welcome. They may dig in gardens, chase wildlife, or practice creative escape artistry if fencing is not secure. They are also quite vocal and can become enthusiastic barkers without consistent training. For many people, these traits are part of the breed’s charm, but they do mean that the Smooth Fox Terrier is not an ideal choice for someone who wants a very quiet, low effort companion.

Despite these challenges, the reward is a vivid, engaging, and loyal friend. In the right home, with owners who enjoy training and can laugh at a bit of terrier stubbornness, the Smooth Fox Terrier becomes an unforgettable character that fills daily life with energy and personality.

Training & Exercise

Training a Smooth Fox Terrier is both rewarding and, at times, humbling. These dogs are quick thinkers and pick up new commands rapidly, but they also question whether following a command is worth their while. A heavy handed or harsh approach will usually backfire and create resistance. Instead, they respond best to training that uses:

• Clear, consistent rules
• Short, varied sessions
• High value rewards such as small treats, toys, or praise
• Plenty of fun and movement

Their working background prepared them to make decisions independently underground and at a distance from the handler. As a result, they are not naturally wired to check in constantly for instructions. Using games that encourage attention, such as “look at me” exercises or recall games with frequent rewards, helps build the habit of staying connected to the owner.

Early training should focus on the essentials that make day to day life easier. Reliable recall is particularly important, as their prey drive can be powerful. Teaching a strong recall is best started in quiet, fenced areas, gradually moving to more distracting environments only when the dog is consistently successful. A long line can be a valuable tool during this period. Other priority skills include loose lead walking, a solid “leave it,” and calm behavior around other dogs and people.

In terms of exercise, the Smooth Fox Terrier is an active and athletic breed that needs more than a short stroll around the block. For a healthy adult, one to two hours of activity per day is a reasonable starting point, split between walks, off lead play in safe areas, and mental stimulation. Many thrive with a mixture of:

• Brisk walks or jogs with plenty of sniffing
• Fetch or tug games
• Scent games, such as finding hidden treats or toys in the garden
• Training sessions that challenge their mind

Dog sports can suit the Smooth Fox Terrier very well. Many enjoy agility, flyball, obedience, rally obedience, and tracking. These activities channel their natural energy into structured work and bring a sense of partnership between dog and owner. Their speed, enthusiasm, and love of problem solving often make them impressive competitors when handled consistently.

It is important, however, not to overdo high impact exercise, especially with growing youngsters. Puppies and adolescents need controlled activity with rest periods to protect developing joints. Free running on soft surfaces, gentle play, and basic training are usually enough in the early months. Intense jumping or repetitive ball chasing should wait until the dog is physically mature.

Some owners underestimate the importance of mental exercise for this breed. A Smooth Fox Terrier left alone for long hours with no opportunity to use its brain can become bored and frustrated. Food puzzle toys, stuffed chew toys, and simple training tasks before leaving the house can all help. Rotating toys and enriching the environment with sniffing opportunities on walks also contribute to a more content dog.

With the right balance of physical and mental activity, the Smooth Fox Terrier relaxes more happily at home. An exercised dog is far less likely to bark excessively, dig, or try to redesign the garden. For active people and families who enjoy the outdoors, this breed can become a tireless and enthusiastic companion, ready for almost any adventure but also able to settle once the day’s work is done.

Health

Overall, the Smooth Fox Terrier is considered a relatively robust and long lived breed. Many individuals reach 12 to 15 years of age, and some remain active and playful well into their senior years. Responsible breeders aim to produce dogs that are both physically sound and mentally stable, and modern health testing helps support this goal.

There are, however, some health issues that prospective owners should be aware of. Like many purebred dogs, the Smooth Fox Terrier has a few conditions that appear more frequently within the breed. Sensible breeding practices and careful choice of puppy can reduce the risk, although no dog can be guaranteed completely free of health problems.

Commonly discussed health concerns in Smooth Fox Terriers include:

• Eye conditions, such as lens luxation and cataracts
• Certain hereditary deafness, particularly in mainly white lines
• Legg Calvé Perthes disease, which affects the hip joint in young dogs
• Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place
• Occasional skin allergies or sensitivities

In many countries, breed clubs and kennel clubs recommend specific health tests for breeding dogs to help identify carriers of certain conditions. These may include eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist, hearing tests (BAER testing) to detect deafness, and clinical checks for joint problems. When looking for a puppy, it is wise to ask breeders which health tests they perform and to request to see documentation.

A good breeder will be happy to discuss the health of their lines, including any problems that might have occurred in the past. They will also explain how they match breeding pairs to reduce the risk of hereditary issues. Buyers should be cautious of breeders who dismiss health concerns, cannot present any test results, or produce frequent litters without clear planning.

Beyond genetic conditions, general health care plays a large role in how well a Smooth Fox Terrier lives. Routine vaccination, regular worming and parasite prevention, and annual veterinary checkups help detect early signs of disease. Dental care is another important aspect, as small to medium breeds can develop tartar and gum disease if teeth are not brushed regularly. Starting tooth brushing early in life, using a dog specific toothpaste, can turn this into a simple and accepted part of weekly care.

Weight control is crucial. Because the breed is naturally lean and athletic, even a modest weight gain can put unnecessary strain on joints and internal organs. Owners should be able to feel ribs easily under a light layer of fat and should see a defined waist when viewing the dog from above. Measuring food, monitoring treats, and adjusting portions to match activity levels help maintain a healthy figure.

As Smooth Fox Terriers age, they may slow down a little, but many remain keen on walks and games. Older dogs benefit from joint supplements, comfortable bedding, and more frequent but shorter outings. Regular blood tests, dental checks, and monitoring for lumps or changes in behavior all help catch age related problems early. With attentive care and sensible breeding, most Smooth Fox Terriers enjoy a long life filled with activity and companionship.

History & Origins

The Smooth Fox Terrier has its roots deep in the traditional fox hunting culture of Britain. Before modern firearms and vehicles, hunters relied on packs of hounds to track foxes across the countryside. When a fox went to ground and disappeared into its earth, another type of dog was needed. This is where terriers came in. Small, brave, and willing to face a cornered animal underground, they were sent into dens to flush the fox back out to the waiting hounds and riders.

By the 18th and 19th centuries, many estates in England kept a team of terriers for this work. These early fox terriers varied in size, coat type, and color. Over time, huntsmen began selecting for specific traits. They wanted a dog that was predominantly white, so it stood out clearly from the red fox and from the hounds. The dog needed a strong but fairly narrow head to enter earths, good legs to keep up with the horses, strong teeth, and great courage.

The Smooth Fox Terrier as a distinct type took shape during the 19th century. Breeders blended different terrier strains from around England and possibly added some other breeds to improve movement and head shape. Dogs from well known kennels became the foundation for the modern breed, and the Smooth Fox Terrier was among the earliest terrier breeds to be shown in the emerging dog show scene. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom recognized the Fox Terrier in the late 1800s, and for some time smooth and wire haired varieties were considered two coats of the same breed.

Eventually, as coat type and breeding lines diverged, the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier were recognized as separate breeds in many countries. The smooth variety kept its close, dense coat and somewhat cleaner outline, while retaining all the feisty character of a working terrier.

As fox hunting traditions declined or changed, the role of the Smooth Fox Terrier shifted too. The breed found a new place as a lively companion and show dog, still carrying the unmistakable workmanlike attitude that had defined it in the field. Breed enthusiasts around Europe and beyond helped establish the Smooth Fox Terrier in their own countries, adapting the breed to new lifestyles while preserving its core attributes.

Today, Smooth Fox Terriers can be found living in city apartments, rural homes, and suburban houses. Some still work as vermin controllers on farms or estates, where their natural skills are valued. Others shine in dog sports, obedience rings, or conformation shows. Many more simply share everyday life with their families, providing entertainment, affection, and a spirited reminder of their heritage every time they zero in on a rustle in the hedge or a movement in the grass.

Although the world that created the Smooth Fox Terrier has mostly vanished, the breed itself remains unmistakably true to its roots. Its alert expression, fearless attitude, and boundless curiosity still echo the days when a small, brave terrier was an essential partner in the field.

Living with the Breed

Sharing your life with a Smooth Fox Terrier is rarely dull. These dogs bring a noticeable presence into any household. Before choosing this breed, it helps to think realistically about your lifestyle, energy level, and expectations. A Smooth Fox Terrier is not a decorative accessory or a low key lap dog. It is an agile, intelligent terrier that thrives on interaction and activity.

Time commitment is a key consideration. On a typical day, a Smooth Fox Terrier will need at least:

• Two reasonably brisk walks or one long outing, totalling around an hour or more
• Short training or play sessions scattered through the day
• Some mental enrichment, such as food puzzles or sniffing games

For people who work long hours away from home, regular dog walkers, doggy daycare, or a trusted family member may be essential. A bored Smooth Fox Terrier left alone for extended periods may bark, chew, dig, or attempt escape. Secure fencing is also important. These dogs can be surprisingly agile, so fences should be high enough and checked regularly for weak spots or gaps.

Financially, owning a Smooth Fox Terrier involves similar costs to other small to medium purebred dogs. Annual expenses typically include:

• Quality food appropriate for the dog’s age and activity level
• Routine veterinary care such as vaccinations and parasite prevention
• Insurance or a savings plan for unexpected veterinary bills
• Occasional grooming supplies, such as brushes, nail clippers, and shampoo
• Equipment like harnesses, leads, toys, and bedding

Over a year, these costs add up. While the Smooth Fox Terrier’s easy care coat saves on professional grooming fees, active dogs may require more durable toys and gear. Investing in strong, well made leads, secure harnesses, and safe chew toys often works out cheaper than frequently replacing damaged items.

Useful equipment for life with a Smooth Fox Terrier includes a comfortable, escape proof harness for walks, particularly in busy areas where good control is vital. A sturdy collar with identification tags is important as a backup. At home, a well fitting crate can be a valuable training aid, giving the dog a safe “den” for rest and helping with housetraining. Many Smooth Fox Terriers learn to love their crate if it is introduced positively and never used as punishment.

Because the breed is intelligent and easily bored, a collection of interactive toys pays real dividends. Food dispensing balls, stuffable rubber toys, and puzzle feeders encourage the dog to think and work for rewards. Rotating these toys so that not everything is available all the time keeps them fresh and interesting. Simple household items, such as cardboard boxes filled with scrunched paper and hidden treats, can also provide enrichment under supervision.

Living with a Smooth Fox Terrier also means living with a certain level of noise and opinion. Many are keen barkers, particularly when excited or when they spot something outside. Early training to reward quiet behavior and to respond to a “quiet” cue helps, but complete silence is unrealistic. People in very noise sensitive environments, such as thin walled apartments, should consider carefully whether this is the right match.

On the positive side, the breed tends to be affectionate, loyal, and full of character. They often choose a favorite person but usually bond well with all family members. Travelling with a Smooth Fox Terrier is often straightforward because of their manageable size and short coat. They can adapt to a variety of living situations, from countryside homes to city flats, as long as their need for exercise and stimulation is met.

Ultimately, living with a Smooth Fox Terrier suits people who appreciate a dog with spirit, humor, and a bit of mischief. If you enjoy training, have time for active walks, and like a companion who participates fully in family life, the Smooth Fox Terrier can be a deeply rewarding choice. With clear rules, kind guidance, and plenty of opportunities to use its brain and body, this little terrier returns the investment with loyalty, entertainment, and a lively presence that makes every day more interesting.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does the Smooth Fox Terrier have with family and strangers?

This breed is lively, bold, and often quite clownish with its family, yet can be reserved or alert with strangers. Many are affectionate and people oriented but retain a strong independent streak. Early and consistent socialisation helps channel their natural confidence into stable behaviour around guests and in public.

Are Smooth Fox Terriers good with other dogs and small pets?

They were developed to hunt and bolt foxes, so they tend to be highly prey driven and may not be safe with small pets such as rodents or rabbits. With other dogs, they can be assertive and sometimes quarrelsome, especially with dogs of the same sex. Careful introductions, good training, and supervision are important in multi‑pet households.

How much exercise does a Smooth Fox Terrier need each day?

Despite their small size, they are an energetic working terrier that usually needs at least 60 to 90 minutes of brisk exercise daily. This should include both physical activity, such as walks and play, and mental work like scent games or training. Without enough outlet for their energy, they can become noisy, restless, or destructive.

Do Smooth Fox Terriers bark a lot and are they good watchdogs?

They are naturally vocal, quick to announce visitors, unusual sounds, or perceived threats. This makes them effective watchdogs but also means they can become nuisance barkers if not trained and sufficiently exercised. Teaching a reliable “quiet” cue and managing triggers helps keep noise to a reasonable level.

What grooming does the smooth coat actually require?

The short, dense coat is low maintenance and generally needs a weekly brushing to remove loose hair and keep the skin healthy. They do shed, particularly seasonally, but much less noticeably than many longer‑coated breeds. Occasional baths, nail trimming, and ear checks round out the routine.

Are there common health problems in Smooth Fox Terriers I should know about?

They are generally robust but can be prone to certain issues such as deafness, lens luxation and other eye diseases, patellar luxation, and some skin and allergy problems. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions and avoid affected dogs. Regular veterinary check‑ups and prompt attention to changes in hearing, vision, or movement are important.

Is a Smooth Fox Terrier a good choice for first‑time dog owners?

They are intelligent and eager but also independent, energetic, and quite tenacious, which can be challenging for a novice. A first‑time owner who is prepared for consistent training, plenty of exercise, and firm but fair boundaries can do well. Those seeking a very easygoing or low‑energy companion may find this breed demanding.

Can a Smooth Fox Terrier live happily in an apartment?

Apartment living is possible if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met reliably every day. Their tendency to bark and their high energy can be problematic in close quarters without training and structure. Access to daily outdoor activity and interactive play is more important than yard size alone.

How trainable are Smooth Fox Terriers and what training challenges are typical?

They are quick learners and enjoy engaging with people, particularly in short, varied sessions that prevent boredom. At the same time, they are independent terriers that may test limits, ignore recalls when chasing, or become fixated on scents. Consistent, reward‑based training that starts early and focuses heavily on recall and impulse control is essential.

What kind of home and lifestyle suits a Smooth Fox Terrier best?

They thrive in active homes where they can participate in daily walks, games, and training or dog sports such as agility or earthdog work. A secure, well‑fenced outdoor area is important because many will chase wildlife or roam if given the chance. Families who enjoy interaction and can offer structure, time, and engagement usually find this breed most rewarding.

Sources

• Kennel Club (UK)
• Svenska Kennelklubben (Swedish Kennel Club)
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
• Deutscher Foxterrier-Verband e.V. (Germany)
• Société Centrale Canine (France)