Fox Terrier (Smooth) — Breed Profile
"Alert, eager, quick, keen"
Smooth operator with terrier attitude
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Active families and individuals who enjoy outdoor activities, hunters, experienced dog owners who can provide firm training, people living in houses with yards
Not Ideal For
First-time dog owners seeking low-energy companions, apartment dwellers without yard access, households with small pets, people unable to provide consistent exercise and mental stimulation
Health Considerations
Lens luxation, patellar luxation, dislocation of the shoulder, Legg-Perthes disease, deafness
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,000
Breed History
The Smooth Fox Terrier was the first fox terrier breed to receive official recognition from The Kennel Club in 1884. Originally developed in Britain for traditional foxhunts, it shares close ancestry with the Wire Fox Terrier. The breed was selectively bred to have the agility, intelligence, and courage needed to pursue foxes into burrows and above ground.
Fun Facts
- Known as the 'gentleman of the terrier world' despite their mischievous devil-may-care attitude
- The breed is an ancestor to many modern terrier breeds
- Smooth Fox Terriers were popular in foxhunting circles and remain significant in terrier history
- Their short coat requires minimal grooming compared to their Wire Fox Terrier cousins
- They have an exceptionally high prey drive and will chase small animals
Famous Fox Terrier (Smooth)s
Bootlegger and Trouble (owned by President Richard Nixon), Asta from 'The Thin Man' films