Introducing the Fox Terrier

Find out everything you need to know about the Fox Terrier: its characteristics, its behavior, its education, its price.

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The Fox Terrier

The Fox Terrier, spirited and fearless

Originating in 18th-century England for hunting, the Fox Terrier is now beloved for its lively energy, intelligence, and loyalty. Known for its bravery, this versatile breed excels in hunting, sports, and as a devoted family pet.

Energetic and sociable, Fox Terriers bond deeply with their owners and are affectionate with children and other pets. With proper training, they become obedient, loyal companions.

Sturdy with a distinctive coat, the Fox Terrier is an ideal choice for active families seeking a spirited and adventurous dog.

FOX TERRIER FACT FILE

This section outlines the unique features of the Fox Terrier breed.

Group

The Fox Terrier belongs to the Terrier group, known for its tenacity, courage, and high energy, originally bred for hunting and pest control.

Size

Fox Terriers are small, sturdy dogs, standing 14-16 inches tall and weighing 15-18 pounds

Coat length

Fox Terriers have a short to medium-length coat, with the Smooth variety featuring a flat coat and the Wire variety a dense, wiry coat.

Coat color

Typically, Fox Terriers have a white coat with black, tan, or brown markings

Living environment

Fox Terriers adapt well to both urban and rural settings, thriving in homes with a secure yard.

Sociability

Fox Terriers are friendly and sociable, good with children and other pets, though supervision is needed around smaller animals.

Health

Generally healthy, Fox Terriers can be prone to allergies and joint issues common in small breeds.

Training

Intelligent and eager to learn, Fox Terriers are easy to train with a patient and consistent approach.

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Physical characterstics

The Fox Terrier, a lively and agile companion

Fox Terriers are small, well-balanced dogs with a lively appearance. Their coat is usually white with black or tan markings, and they have a sharp, expressive face with alert eyes.

Size and weight of the Fox Terrier

a Fox Terrier on a leash sitting quietly

Fox Terriers typically stand between 13 and 16 inches tall and weigh 15 to 18 pounds. They grow quickly, reaching their full size by around one year old, with males being slightly larger than females. Despite their small stature, they are sturdy and muscular, reflecting their active and energetic nature.

The coat of the Fox Terrier

Coat length

Fox Terriers come in two varieties: Smooth and Wire. Smooth Fox Terriers have a short, flat coat that lies close to the body, offering a sleek and tidy appearance. In contrast, Wire Fox Terriers have a dense, wiry coat with a slightly rough texture, giving them a more rugged look.

Coat color

The coat of a Fox Terrier is predominantly white with black or tan markings. These bold markings create a distinctive and striking appearance, which is a hallmark of the breed.

Coat care

Smooth Fox Terriers require weekly brushing to keep their short coat in good condition, while Wire Fox Terriers need more frequent grooming, including hand-stripping to maintain the texture and health of their wiry coat. Both varieties shed moderately year-round, so regular brushing is essential to keep their coat looking healthy and to minimize shedding. Proper grooming helps prevent matting and maintains the breed’s signature look.

Other characteristics of the Fox Terrier

Physical features

The Fox Terrier is a balanced, agile dog with a compact, muscular build that highlights its athleticism. Its flat, narrow head is paired with dark, alert eyes and V-shaped ears that fold forward. The deep chest and strong legs reflect the breed’s endurance and agility, making it both a capable working dog and a lively companion.

Temperament & behavior

What is the temperament of the Fox Terrier?

Fox Terriers are loyal, courageous, and affectionate, making them lively and alert companions.

Fox Terrier category

The Fox Terrier belongs to the Terrier group, one of 10 groups among around 400 dog breeds. Known for their tenacity, intelligence, and strong hunting instincts, Terriers excel at pest control and hunting small game. Beyond their working abilities, Fox Terriers are also loyal and affectionate, making them devoted family pets.

Behavior of the Fox Terrier

Loyal and energetic

Fox Terriers are lively, affectionate dogs that form deep bonds with their owners. Known for their loyalty, they thrive in environments where they receive ample attention and interaction. With their energetic personalities, they do best with owners who are actively involved in their daily lives, providing them with both mental and physical stimulation.

a Fox Terrier running in the grass with a ball in its mouth

Sociable and friendly

Fox Terriers are sociable dogs that get along well with people and other animals. Their playful nature makes them great with children, and they integrate easily into family life. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop well-rounded behavior, ensuring they adapt confidently to different environments.

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The Fox Terrier's living environment

Adaptable and active

Fox Terriers are highly adaptable dogs that can thrive in both apartments and houses, as long as their exercise needs are met. They require regular attention from their owners and benefit from at least two 30-minute walks daily to stay happy and healthy. Despite their small size, they are energetic and need mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom.

Best with space

While they can adjust to smaller living spaces, Fox Terriers truly thrive in homes with secure outdoor areas where they can explore and burn off their abundant energy. Access to a yard or outdoor space allows them to satisfy their curiosity and engage in the active play they love, making them happier and more well-balanced pets.

Training the Fox Terrier

a Fox Terrier at the feet of his/her master/mistress

Quick learners, but independent

Fox Terriers are intelligent dogs that quickly grasp commands, making them relatively easy to train. However, their independent nature means they require consistent, firm guidance to stay on track. Positive reinforcement techniques—like treats, praise, and interactive play—are the most effective methods to motivate them. Given their curious and adventurous nature, Fox Terriers can be prone to wandering off, especially when something catches their attention. A GPS collar is recommended to help ensure they stay safe and don't get lost during outdoor activities.

Good listeners with a stubborn streak

Fox Terriers are good listeners and often eager to please, but their stubborn streak can surface if they aren't interested in the task at hand. They tend to follow their instincts, which can sometimes override obedience, especially if they're not properly stimulated. Early and consistent training is essential to managing their independent spirit. Patience and persistence are key, as is finding ways to keep training sessions engaging and fun, helping them stay focused and responsive.

Health & nutrition

How to take care of the Fox Terrier

Fox Terriers are generally healthy dogs but require regular daily care to maintain their well-being and prevent diseases and infections. Consistent attention to their diet, exercise, and grooming is key to keeping them in top condition and ensuring a long, healthy life.

The health of the Fox Terrier

Illnesses

Fox Terriers are usually robust and have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, they can be prone to conditions such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and skin allergies. These issues can cause joint discomfort and skin irritation, but with proper care and regular vet visits, they can be managed to ensure a healthy life.

Routine care

Routine care is essential for a Fox Terrier's well-being. Regular vet check-ups help catch potential issues early, while vaccinations, deworming, and parasite treatments should be kept up to date. Daily care includes brushing their coat, particularly for Wire Fox Terriers, as well as ear cleaning, dental care, and nail trimming. Though not hypoallergenic, Fox Terriers thrive with consistent grooming and health maintenance, allowing them to enjoy long, active lives.

Feeding the Fox Terrier

Daily requirements

Fox Terriers need a balanced diet rich in proteins and vitamins to stay healthy. Premium kibble is ideal, with the option to supplement with lean meat for extra protein. Be sure to limit fats to maintain their health.

Breeding or adoption & cost

What does a Fox Terrier cost?

The Fox Terrier is a popular breed known for its energetic personality. While there are many reputable breeders, it's essential to consider several factors before adopting.

How to choose your Fox Terrier

two Fox Terriers playing with each other

Finding the right breeder

Before adopting a Fox Terrier, there are some important points to consider. First and foremost, you need to check that the breeder is reputable. This means visiting the breeder's premises to assess the living conditions and behavior of the dogs. Responsible breeders will provide transparent information about the puppy's health and any genetic illnesses in its lineage.

Lastly, mandatory electronic identification, like microchipping, is not always mandated at the federal level in the United States for cats and dogs. But microchipping is widely acknowledged as a successful way to permanently identify pets and increase the possibility of reuniting lost pets with their owners, even in the absence of universal regulations. As a pet owner, it is advised to inform yourself about municipal laws to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your pet.