Fox Terrier (Smooth)
The Good
- Excellent family companion with proper socialisation
- Intelligent and eager to learn new skills
- Low-maintenance grooming requirements
- Great watchdog with strong alert instincts
- Adaptable to various living situations
The Real
- High energy levels requiring daily exercise
- Strong prey drive may chase small animals
- Tendency to bark and dig without proper training
- Can be independent and stubborn during training
- Moderate shedding despite short coat
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Smooth Fox Terrier is often called the "gentleman of the terrier world," and once you meet one, you'll understand why. These compact, elegant dogs pack enormous personality into their small frames, making them absolutely brilliant companions for the right Australian family.
Standing no taller than 39 cm at the shoulder, Smooths are perfectly sized for most Australian homes, whether you're in a Sydney apartment or a Brisbane suburban house. Their predominantly white coat with distinctive black and tan markings gives them that classic, dapper appearance that turns heads at your local dog park.
What really sets these dogs apart is their incredible spirit. Originally bred for traditional British foxhunts, they've retained that bold, adventurous nature that makes them fantastic companions for active Aussie families. They're the type of dog that greets each day like it's the best adventure yet, whether that's a morning walk along Bondi Beach or exploring the trails in the Blue Mountains.
Here's what I love about Smooths - they're genuinely devoted to their families. They'll happily join you for weekend camping trips to the Grampians or content themselves with backyard play sessions during Perth's scorching summers. Their intelligence means they're always up for learning something new, though their terrier independence means training requires patience and consistency.
These dogs thrive on being part of the family action. They're equally comfortable joining you for weekend markets in Melbourne or relaxing during a backyard BBQ in Adelaide. Just remember, their hunting heritage means they'll always be ready to chase that neighbourhood cat or investigate interesting smells on your daily walks.
History
History
The Smooth Fox Terrier's story begins in the rolling countryside of 19th century England, where foxhunting was the passion of the British gentry. Picture this: dozens of hunters on horseback, packs of hounds, and these brave little terriers, all working together in pursuit of a single fox. The Smooth's job was crucial - when the fox went to ground, these fearless dogs would follow it into the burrow, using their sharp bark and bold attitude to force the fox back out into the open.
The breed emerged from careful crosses of Old English Terriers, smooth-coated Black and Tan terriers, Bull Terriers, Greyhounds, and Beagles. This diverse heritage gave them their perfect combination of courage, speed, and that distinctive white coat that made them easily distinguishable from the fox during hunts - a vital safety feature in the heat of the chase.
Originally, both Smooth and Wire Fox Terriers were considered the same breed, classified together until 1984 when the American Kennel Club recognised them as distinct breeds. The breed standard was established in 1876 by officers of the Fox Terrier Club, and remarkably, today's standard differs very little from that original description.
These dogs gained international recognition when they made their way to America, even residing in the White House with President Herbert Hoover, who kept two Fox Terriers named Big Ben and Sonnie. Their popularity spread to Australia, where their adaptable nature and moderate size made them perfect companions for our diverse climate and lifestyle.
While traditional foxhunting is now banned in England, the Smooth Fox Terrier's legacy lives on as beloved family companions, retaining all that courage and spirit that made them legendary hunters, now channelled into being devoted family members across Australian homes.
Traits & Characteristics
Fox Terrier (Smooth) characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Smooth Fox Terriers are generally robust, healthy dogs with a typical lifespan of 10-13 years - pretty good for a dog their size. Like most breeds though, they do have some health considerations that Australian owners should be aware of, especially when choosing a breeder or planning for long-term care.
One condition to watch for is patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place. You might notice your dog suddenly lifting a back leg or doing a little "bunny hop" when both knees are affected. Most cases can be managed with joint supplements, maintaining a healthy weight, and pain medication when needed, though severe cases might require surgery.
Primary lens luxation is another concern specific to terrier breeds. This happens when the lens in the eye moves out of position, potentially causing painful glaucoma and vision loss. Watch for excessive tearing, pawing at the face, or changes in pupil size. This is considered a veterinary emergency, so don't hesitate to contact your vet if you notice any eye changes.
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease can affect young puppies under one year old. The hip joint loses blood supply, causing pain and stiffness. Early intervention with anti-inflammatories and rest can help, though surgery might be necessary in some cases.
Deafness can occur at any age, though some puppies are born with congenital hearing loss. Regular vet checkups help catch these issues early.
The good news is that responsible Australian breeders typically test their breeding stock for these conditions. Regular vet visits, maintaining a healthy weight, and dental care (these dogs can be prone to dental issues) will help ensure your Smooth Fox Terrier enjoys a long, healthy life exploring everything Australia has to offer.
Feeding your Smooth Fox Terrier doesn't require anything too complicated, but these energetic little characters do have some specific needs that'll keep them healthy and happy throughout their Australian adventures.
A high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their life stage is perfect for most Smooths. Puppies need more frequent meals - usually three to four times daily - to prevent low blood sugar, which can be a concern in smaller breeds. Adult dogs typically do well with two to three meals per day, which helps maintain their energy levels for those morning beach walks or afternoon park sessions.
Because these dogs were bred to be active hunters, they burn energy efficiently and need consistent nutrition to maintain their spirited nature. If your Smooth is particularly active - perhaps competing in agility trials or joining you for long hikes in the Blue Mountains - they might benefit from a higher-calorie sport formulation.
Here's a fun tip: consider using puzzle feeders for meals. These intelligent dogs love problem-solving, and it'll help slow down any fast eaters while keeping their minds engaged. It's like giving them a job to do, which appeals to their terrier nature.
Portion control is important with Smooths. They're not typically prone to obesity, but their enthusiasm for life extends to food, so monitor their weight and adjust portions accordingly. Your Australian vet can help calculate the right caloric needs for your individual dog based on their age, activity level, and any health considerations.
Always provide fresh, clean water, especially important during Australia's hot summers. And while it's tempting to share your snacks during those weekend BBQs, stick to dog-safe treats to keep your Smooth healthy and avoid any digestive upsets that might interrupt your adventures together.
Here's some great news for busy Australian families - Smooth Fox Terriers are refreshingly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, dense coat is one of the breed's most practical features, especially for our varied climate.
A weekly brush with a thick brush or hound glove is usually sufficient to keep their coat looking smart. Despite being called "smooth," they do shed moderately - more than their Wire Fox Terrier cousins - so regular brushing helps keep the white hairs off your furniture and black work clothes. During shedding seasons, you might want to brush them twice weekly.
Bathing is straightforward with these dogs. A monthly bath is typically enough unless your Smooth has followed their natural instincts and discovered a particularly interesting mud puddle during your weekend camping trip. Their coat dries quickly, which is handy for those spontaneous beach visits along the Australian coast.
Pay special attention to their eyes, as the breed can be prone to eye conditions. Check weekly for any unusual discharge or cloudiness, and contact your vet if you notice changes. Their ears generally don't need special care, but regular checks for debris, redness, or odour help prevent infections.
Nail trimming should be done regularly - active dogs walking on Australian pavements and beaches will naturally wear down their nails somewhat, but they'll still need periodic trims. Dental care is particularly important for Smooths, so brush their teeth regularly with dog-safe toothpaste.
The beauty of grooming a Smooth Fox Terrier is that it becomes a lovely bonding time rather than a chore. These social dogs enjoy the attention, and their cooperative nature makes the whole process pleasant for both of you. Perfect for Australian families who want a well-groomed dog without the professional grooming expenses.
Training a Smooth Fox Terrier is like working with a brilliant student who occasionally decides they know better than the teacher - challenging but incredibly rewarding when you get it right. These intelligent dogs are eager to please and love learning new skills, but their independent terrier nature means you'll need patience and consistency.
Start socialisation early, especially if you're in busy Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne. Their hunting heritage means they might view other small animals as something to chase, but proper early training helps manage this prey drive. Puppy training classes with a terrier-experienced trainer are worth their weight in gold.
Exercise-wise, these dogs need a good outlet for their energy. Long walks are perfect - think 45-60 minutes daily, broken into morning and evening sessions to avoid Australia's harsh midday sun. They love exploring new environments, so vary your routes around your neighbourhood or take them to different dog-friendly beaches and parks.
Here's the thing about exercise with Smooths - they're happy to get their energy out independently if you give them space. A securely fenced backyard works wonders, though be prepared for some enthusiastic digging. It's in their DNA, so rather than fighting it entirely, consider creating a designated digging area.
Never let them off-lead in unfenced areas. Their prey drive means they'll take off after interesting wildlife faster than you can say "come back." This is particularly important in Australian bush areas where they might encounter native animals.
These dogs excel at various activities - agility, earthdog trials, obedience competitions, and hiking. They're natural entertainers and love showing off their skills. The key is channelling their intelligence and energy into positive activities rather than letting them create their own entertainment, which might involve redesigning your garden or announcing every delivery truck in the neighbourhood.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Smooth Fox Terrier owner is someone who appreciates a dog with personality - lots of it. If you're looking for a laid-back couch companion, this probably isn't your breed. But if you want a devoted, intelligent, and entertaining family member who'll join you for life's adventures, you've found your match.
Active Australian families do particularly well with Smooths. Whether you're weekend hikers exploring the Grampians, regular beach walkers along the Gold Coast, or suburban families who enjoy daily neighbourhood strolls, these dogs will happily match your energy. They're equally content in Melbourne apartments (with adequate exercise) or Brisbane houses with backyards.
First-time dog owners can succeed with Smooths, but you'll need commitment to training and socialisation. These aren't "set and forget" dogs - they thrive on interaction and mental stimulation. If you work long hours regularly, consider whether you can provide adequate attention and exercise, or have support systems in place.
Families with children often love Smooths, but younger kids need to understand how to interact respectfully with dogs. These terriers are generally patient but won't tolerate rough handling. School-age children who can participate in training and exercise routines often form wonderful bonds with these dogs.
Retirees and empty-nesters frequently find Smooths perfect companions, providing structure and motivation for daily walks while offering devoted companionship. Their size makes them manageable for most people, yet they're substantial enough to feel like "real dogs."
The ideal owner appreciates a dog that's genuinely part of the family. Smooths want to be involved in your daily life - from morning coffee on the deck to weekend trips to local markets. They're not backyard dogs; they're family members who happen to have four legs and an opinion about everything.
Interesting facts about the Fox Terrier (Smooth)
Interesting Fact
President Herbert Hoover kept two Fox Terriers named Big Ben and Sonnie in the White House, making them some of America's most famous presidential pets
Interesting Fact
The breed standard established in 1876 remains virtually unchanged today, with only minor adjustments for weight specifications and optional tail docking
Interesting Fact
Smooth and Wire Fox Terriers were originally considered the same breed until 1984, when they were officially recognised as distinct breeds
Interesting Fact
Their predominantly white coat wasn't just for looks - it was specifically bred to help hunters distinguish them from foxes during traditional hunts, even in low light conditions
FAQ
Yes, with proper training and socialisation, Smooth Fox Terriers make excellent family pets. They're devoted and affectionate with their humans, though children need to understand how to interact respectfully with dogs. Early socialisation helps ensure they get along well with kids and other family members.
Yes, like most terriers, Smooth Fox Terriers are naturally vocal dogs. They were bred to use their bark to flush foxes from burrows, so barking is part of their communication style. With consistent training, you can manage excessive barking, but expect them to alert you to visitors and unusual activities.
While both breeds share similar intelligence and terrier traits, Smooth Fox Terriers are generally larger than Jack Russells and have longer snouts. They share ancestry and were both bred for hunting, so they have similar temperaments, but they're distinct breeds with different physical characteristics.
Their short coat makes them reasonably adaptable to Australia's varied climate, though they'll need protection during extreme weather. In hot climates like Darwin or Perth summers, exercise during cooler morning and evening hours. In cooler areas like Melbourne or Canberra winters, they may need a coat for outdoor activities.
Yes, Smooth Fox Terriers can adapt well to apartment living in cities like Sydney or Melbourne, provided they receive adequate daily exercise. Their moderate size and adaptable nature work well in smaller spaces, though access to secure outdoor areas for play is beneficial.
These energetic dogs need substantial daily exercise - typically 45-60 minutes of walking plus playtime. They love long walks, hiking, and having space to explore safely. Without adequate exercise, they may become destructive or develop behavioural issues.
Grooming is refreshingly simple - weekly brushing and monthly baths unless they get into mischief. They do shed moderately, so regular brushing helps manage loose hair. Their low-maintenance coat is perfect for busy families who want a well-groomed dog without professional grooming expenses.