The Smooth Fox Terrier is the “Gentleman of the Terrier World.” With his sleek coat, V-shaped ears, and fiery dark eyes, he is the picture of elegance and athleticism. But don’t let his refined looks fool you—beneath that polished exterior beats the heart of a tough, scrappy hunter who knows no fear.

He was bred to run with the hounds and flush foxes from their dens so the chase could continue. Today, he brings that same boundless energy and charisma to being a lively family companion. He is a dog who lives life at full volume: playing hard, loving hard, and always looking for the next adventure.

History and Origin: The Original Show Dog

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a breed with a deep history. Developed in England in the 17th and 18th centuries, he was an essential part of the British fox hunt. While the hounds chased the fox across the open fields, the terrier rode in a saddlebag or ran alongside the horses. When the fox went to ground (hid in a hole), the terrier was released. His job was to bolt the fox—to bark and harass it until it left the den—so the hunt could resume. He was never intended to kill the fox, only to move it.

A Show Ring Legend

The Smooth Fox Terrier was one of the first breeds to enter the show ring. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885. For a long time, the Smooth and Wire Fox Terriers were considered varieties of the same breed, but they are now distinct breeds with different ancestries (the Wire has Rough Black and Tan Terrier blood; the Smooth has Beagle and Greyhound in his background). The Smooth Fox Terrier is aristocracy in the canine world. He has won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show four times, a testament to his flashy appearance and showmanship.

Physical Characteristics: An Athlete in a Tuxedo

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a flat-coated, balanced dog who stands like a short-backed hunter covering a lot of ground.

• Height: Males should not exceed 15.5 inches (39 cm) at the shoulder; females slightly less.
• Weight: Males around 18 pounds (8 kg); females around 16 pounds (7 kg).

Distinctive Features

• Head: The head is long and wedge-shaped, with little “stop” (brow). It gives him a sleek, aerodynamic look.
• Ears: Small, V-shaped, and dropping forward close to the cheek. They are always alert, twitching at the slightest sound.
• Coat: Smooth, flat, hard, and dense. It should be abundant and cover the belly and inner thighs.
• Color: White must be the dominant color (to distinguish him from the fox). Markings are usually black, tan, or both.
• Tail: Traditionally docked, but natural tails are carried gaily and straight up (not curled over the back). It is often called the “stern.”

Temperament and Personality

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a livewire. He is not a dog for the faint of heart or the low-energy household.

The Comedian

He is funny. He loves to perform and be the center of attention. He is playful well into old age, retaining a puppy-like zest for life. He will invent games if you don’t provide them.

The Fearless Watchdog

He is absolutely fearless. He will bark at anything suspicious. He will not back down from a challenge, even from a much larger dog. He has a “big dog” attitude and usually forgets he only weighs 18 pounds.

The Digger

He is a terrier. He loves to dig. If he smells a mole or a chipmunk, your flowerbed is doomed. It is hard to train this instinct out of him, so providing a designated digging spot is often the best solution.

The Independent Thinker

He is smart, but he is not a “yes man.” He was bred to think for himself underground. This means he can be stubborn. He wants to know “what’s in it for me?” before he obeys a command.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: Motion is Life

This is a high-energy breed.

• Daily Needs: He needs vigorous exercise. A long walk, a run, or a game of fetch. A tired Fox Terrier is a good Fox Terrier.
• Mental Stimulation: He gets bored easily. Puzzle toys, trick training, and agility are excellent ways to burn off mental energy.
• Leash Laws: Because of his high prey drive, he should never be trusted off-leash in an unfenced area. If he sees a squirrel, he is gone.

Training: Keep it Fun

• Positive Reinforcement: He responds best to treats, toys, and praise. Harsh methods will make him shut down or fight back.
• Consistency: You must be consistent. If you let him get away with something once, he will try it forever.
• Socialization: Early socialization with dogs and people is crucial to curb any potential aggression or shyness.

Health and Lifespan

Smooth Fox Terriers are generally a long-lived, healthy breed, often reaching 12 to 15 years.

• Patellar Luxation: Slipping kneecaps can occur.
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: A hip condition common in small breeds.
• Cardiac Disease: Heart issues can occur in some lines.
• Eye Issues: Lens luxation, cataracts, and glaucoma.
• Deafness: Associated with the white coat gene, though less common than in some other breeds.

Grooming and Care

The Smooth Fox Terrier is the definition of “wash and wear.”

• Brushing: A weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or a hound glove keeps his coat shiny and removes loose hair.
• Shedding: He sheds moderately year-round and heavier twice a year.
• Bathing: Only bathe when he is dirty. His hard coat repels dirt naturally.
• Nails: Keep them short to prevent clicking on the floor.

Is a Smooth Fox Terrier Right for You?

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a classic breed for a reason.

Yes, if:

• You want a fun, active small dog. You want a companion for adventures.
• You have a sense of humor. You enjoy a dog with personality.
• You want a low-maintenance coat. You prefer brushing to clipping.
• You are an active person. You want a dog that can keep up.

No, if:

• You want a quiet, docile lap dog. He is too busy for that.
• You have a pristine garden. He digs.
• You have small pets. Hamsters and rabbits are snacks.
• You want a dog that obeys instantly. He has his own agenda.

If you can appreciate his spunk and handle his energy, the Smooth Fox Terrier is a loyal, entertaining, and deeply affectionate friend who will keep you laughing—and keep you on your toes—for years to come.