Intelligent, agile, energetic, and watchful dogs. As is the case with other Terriers, might not get along well with other dogs. Seem to be quick learners with reward-based training and as such enjoy dog sports such as agility, flyball, tracking and earthdog trials. May engage in chasing or hunting wildlife, digging, barking and being tenacious or difficult to disengage from an activity that has its attention.
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Identifying Features:
Average Height: 15 - 17 in
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The Smooth Fox Terrier first became known as its own breed in the 1860's in England. They were originally bred to hunt local vermin and fox. The attractive appearance, graceful conformation, and handsome coloring of the Fox Terrier made it the most popular member of the Terrier family. The direct ancestors of the Fox Terrier include the Old English Terrier, the Smooth-Coated Black-and-Tan Terriers, Bull Terriers, Greyhounds and Beagles.
The Fox Terrier's popularity in the United States increased after the 1930's. Unfortunately, as the human population moved from rural to urban environments, the breed's population once again decreased. Keeping Fox Terriers in an urban environment was difficult because of the dogs' strong instincts and temperament.
For almost one hundred years the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier were registered as the same breed by the American Kennel Club, but in 1984, the two were recognized as distinct breeds and the Smooth Fox Terrier was given its own breed status.
