Mary Allen
The Fox Terrier is a keen hunting dog from Great Britain that is now also popular as a family pet. In the profile, you get information about the origin, the character, and the attitude of the British dog breed.
History of the Fox Terrier
Centuries ago, hunters used particularly clever and active dogs to hunt foxes and badgers. They accompanied the mounted “Foxhound Masters” on the hunt. The dogs’ task was to follow the prey into the burrow and shoo it out. They, therefore, needed an obedient but courageous and defensive hunting dog. The name fox terrier is made up of the words “fox” (fox) and “terra” (earth). In the beginning, there were only smooth-haired dogs. The wire-haired representatives of the breed only followed years later.
To maintain today’s standards, breeders crossed in dachshunds, beagles, and probably bull terriers. In the 19th century, the British Kennel Club established an official standard for terriers. In the beginning, the breed was mainly bred in pure white, so that the dogs could be easily distinguished from the wild. In 1880 the first representatives of the breed came to Germany. Prince Albrecht zu Solms-Braunfels devoted himself to breeding at the time. Nowadays the FCI divides the fox terrier into smooth-haired and wire-haired breeds. Both breeds belong to FCI Group 3 “Terriers” and in Section 1 “Tall Terriers”.
Essence and Character
The fox terrier is a smart and spirited dog for the whole family. He is playful and affectionate, which makes him an ideal companion for children. On the other hand, the dogs are courageous and intelligent hunting dogs that provide loyal service to their owner. The terrier is short-tempered towards other dogs and tends to fight if poorly trained.
He treats strangers in a distant or disinterested manner. At home, however, the dog is a dutiful guard who likes to bark a lot. You have to get the terrier with a strong hunting instinct used to other pets early on so that he does not see them as prey. So, in typical terrier fashion, he’s a brave, daring dog who’s full of energy.
The Appearance of the Fox Terrier
Both Fox Terrier breeds differ largely in the coating structure. Bone structure and coat color are the same. The smooth-haired has a smooth, close-lying, and soft coat. The coat of the Wirehaired Pointer, on the other hand, is dense and very wiry. The coat color can be white with black or tan markings. The medium-sized dogs are built almost square, with the legs going straight down. The tail should stand straight up. The small ears are V-shaped and kinked. His overall appearance is alert and the dog is tense.
Education of the Puppy
The upbringing of the stubborn and self-confident fox terrier is only suitable for assertive people. If there is a lack of consistency or a sign of weakness, the terrier takes the opportunity and develops into a four-legged tyrant. He has a mind of his own and never submits completely. With experience and a lot of consistency, however, the dogs are easy to train. It is particularly important for relaxed walks to get the pronounced hunting instinct under control. Early socialization is also a must if you meet other dogs along the way. Visiting a puppy school is recommended.
Activities with the Fox Terrier
Despite its small size, the fox terrier is anything but a well-behaved lap dog. He is lively and wants to have adventures, preferably every day. He prefers to be outdoors and does not get tired of playing and romping. The Fox is at his best when he gets a meaningful job and can do something good for his owner.
When bored, the lively dogs quickly find their own occupation. Since they naturally love to dig in the ground, they will dig up your garden, for example. If you want to prevent this, you can alternatively inspire the dog for almost any sporting game. It is suitable for many dog sports, such as cross-country running, agility, or dog dance.
Health and Care
The care required for the Fox Terrier depends on the coating structure. The coat of the smooth variant is effortless, but it needs your support during the change of coat. The wire-haired fox, on the other hand, does not naturally change its coat and should therefore be trimmed regularly. Visiting a dog groomer is not mandatory, but recommended for the first few times. To keep the coat healthy for the rest of the time, you should groom it regularly. In terms of health, the small terrier is a very robust breed with no hereditary diseases worth mentioning. Bad weather or cold don’t bother him.
Is the Fox Terrier Right for Me?
Before you get yourself a fox terrier, you should know that the breed is one of the most active and lively around. The dogs remain active into old age, often living to over 14 years of age. So you bind yourself to the lively bundle of energy for a long time and should ensure daily employment. A family that wants to integrate the dog into many activities, such as hiking or cycling, is, therefore, best suited – and that in any weather. Alternatively, it is excellent for its original purpose – hunting.