Read About Fox Terriers

Fox Terriers are a lively, smart, energetic breed Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Fox Terriers - Facts

1. AKC Group:

   Toy Fox Terriers belong to the toy group and the Wirehaired Fox Terrier and the Smooth Fox Terrier are in the terrier group.

2. Size & Weight:

   The Fox Terriers are 10 to 16 inches tall and 3.5 to 20 pounds.

3. Coat:

   The coat will either be smooth, short, and thick or a short wiry coat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their heads are usually dome shaped and their muzzle is small and narrow. The ears on the Wirehaired and the Smooth Fox terrier are V shaped and fall forward. The ears on the Toy Terrier are V shaped and erect.

5. Body:

   It is a well-built dog that has a lot of strength. Their necks are muscular and thick.

6. Colors:

   Most all are white with either black and brown markings or white with brown markings.

7. Life Expectancy:

   The life expectancy on Fox Terriers is 13 to 15 plus years.

8. Popularity:

   All three of the Fox Terriers are quite popular.

9. Habitat:

   If exercised properly they make a good apartment dog and do not require a fenced backyard.

Fox Terriers - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   The Wirehaired and Smooth Fox Terrier originated from England and the Toy Fox Terrier from the United States in the 1930's.

2. Lineage:

   They are crossed from Dachshunds, English Hounds, Fox Hounds, and the Beagle.

3. Date Admitted to AKC:

   The Wirehaired and the Smooth Fox Terrier were admitted in 1885 and the Toy Fox Terrier was admitted in 2003.

4. Historical Information:

   The Fox Terriers job was to hoax foxes out of their holes by growling and lunging at the fox.

Fox Terriers - Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   They are very smart and train easily.

2. Temperament:

   They are fun, energetic, and very playful.

3. Child Friendly:

   They are good with children, but do have a tendency to bite.

4. Behavior:

   Their behavior problems are excessive barking, dominance, and guarding toys and food bowl.

5. Habits:

   They need to be kept on a close leash because they like to take off and explore.

Fox Terriers - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Some of the health issues the Fox Terriers have are epilepsy, deafness, skin problems, and Legg-Perthes disease.

2. Feeding:

   They do well with dry or moist food.

3. Exercise Needs:

   If you have a yard they will exercise themselves, if you don't have a yard then it's recommended to walk them daily.

4. Grooming Needs:

   Their coat is easy to take care of. You can brush and bathe them as needed.

5. Special Household Needs:

   There are no special household needs.

6. Travel Needs:

   It is advisable to have a dog crate or dog car seat when traveling with your pet.

7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

   They do not do well with other pets.

Fox Terriers - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for a lively, energetic puppy that is not shy. Make sure the coat is shiny and clean.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   You will want to have dog dishes, a bed, food, dog chews and treats, toys, grooming supplies, and a dog crate.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   It is best to keep all small and poisonous objects out of the reach.

4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

   It is important to interact and engage with your puppy daily.