AKC Ranking: 99
Family: terrier
Area of Origin: England
Date of Origin: 1700s
Original Function: vermin hunting, fox bolting
Today's Function: earthdog trials
Avg Size of male: Height: <15.5 Weight: 17-19
Avg Size of Female: Height: <15.5 Weight: 15-17
Other Name: none

History
The smooth fox terrier's ancestors are not documented, but the breed was certainly known by 1800 and was already popular before the advent of dog shows. It accompanied foxhound packs and dislodged foxes that had taken cover. Predominantly white dogs were preferred because they could be more easily distinguished from the quarry in dim lighting. Some speculation exists that the smooth and wire fox terriers arose from distinct backgrounds, with the smooth descending from the smooth-coated black and tan, the bull terrier and even the greyhound and beagle. The smooth fox terriers were among the first breeds to enter the show ring, classified initially with the sporting breeds. The two varieties were interbred extensively at one time, but the practice gradually declined. Because the two breeds had long since ceased to be crossed by the latter part of the 1900s, the AKC divided them into separate breeds in 1985.

Temperament
Energetic, inquisitive, bold, feisty, playful, mischievous, independent and adventurous describe the fox terrier. This breed lives to run, chase and explore. It is usually fairly reserved with strangers. It tends to bark and dig.

Upkeep
The smooth fox terrier is energetic and cannot be ignored. As an active dog, it will do much to exercise itself given the room. It enjoys a vigorous game or walk, as well as an off-lead outing in a safe area. Even though this breed can live outdoors in a warm climate, it does better living in the house and playing in the yard. Smooth coat care consists of weekly brushing to remove shedding hair. In fact, the smooths shed more than the wires. Some training of the ears may be necessary as puppies for proper adult shape to develop.

Health
• Major concerns: none
• Minor concerns: lens luxation, distichiasis, cataract, Legg-Perthes, shoulder dislocation
• Occasionally seen: deafness, patellar luxation
• Suggested tests: eye
• Life span: 10 – 13 years

Form and Function
The smooth fox terrier is square-proportioned, standing over a lot of ground but with a short back. Its conformation combines speed, endurance and power, enabling it to gallop and stay with the horses and hounds during the hunt and to follow a fox up a narrow passage. The gait while trotting gets most of its propulsion from the rear quarters. The expression, like the attitude, is keen; the carriage is alert and expectant. The coat is flat, hard and dense, also with a short, fine undercoat.

Related Dogs
Airedale Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Australian Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Border Terrier
Bull Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Irish Terrier
Wire Fox Terrier