Owning a Smooth Fox Terrier can be a dream come true for many dog lovers. They are energetic, playful, and loving companions that thrive on human interaction.
With their short, smooth coats, they require minimal grooming compared to other breeds. This makes them a great choice for busy owners or those who prefer a low-maintenance pet.
Smooth Fox Terriers are naturally curious and can get into mischief if left unsupervised. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
To ensure your Smooth Fox Terrier stays happy and healthy, it's essential to establish a regular routine that includes regular exercise, training, and playtime.
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Small
When it comes to the size of Smooth Fox Terriers, they are indeed small dogs. On average, an adult Smooth Fox Terrier weighs between 15 and 18 pounds.
Their compact body is one of their most distinctive features, making them a great choice for city living or families with smaller spaces.
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Temperament and Training
Smooth Fox Terriers are full of energy, so be prepared for a lively companion. They have a friendly, outgoing, and affectionate temperament, making them great family pets.
Their independent streak can sometimes get them into mischief, so experienced owners are a must. They're highly intelligent, but this also means they can be mischievous and sly at times.
These little dogs are vocal, and their barking can become a nuisance if not properly trained. They'll bark to alert you to anything out of the ordinary, from strangers at the door to wildlife in the yard.
They're always on the lookout for danger, making them excellent watchdogs. With proper training, their barking can be harnessed to alert you to potential threats.
Their intelligence means they can be trained, but it's essential to be consistent and patient. With time and effort, your Smooth Fox Terrier can learn to behave and become a well-behaved member of your family.
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Children and Pets
When it comes to children and pets, it's essential to consider the Smooth Fox Terrier's energetic and playful nature. They love to play with kids and make excellent family companions if properly trained and socialized at a young age.
The Smooth Fox Terrier's high energy level means they're not suitable for households with young children under the age of 6 or 7. Their playful nature can sometimes be misinterpreted as aggression, especially when they're chasing after toys or trying to protect their food and toys.
Supervision is crucial when introducing children to the Smooth Fox Terrier, especially when it comes to teaching children how to approach and touch dogs gently. They may show dominance over other pets in the home unless they're socialized and trained at an early age.
Children should be taught how to interact with the Smooth Fox Terrier appropriately, and it's vital to prevent any biting or ear pulling from either party. With proper training and socialization, the Smooth Fox Terrier can be a wonderful addition to any family with older children.
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Owning and Caring
The Smooth Fox Terrier requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, so be prepared for daily walks and playtime.
This breed is energetic and needs to be kept active, so a safe area for off-lead outings is a must.
Weekly brushing is a must to remove shedding hair and keep their smooth coat looking its best.
Upkeep
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a high-energy dog that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk or playtime is a must, and they'll even try to find ways to entertain themselves if they don't get enough physical activity.
Weekly brushing is essential to remove shedding hair from their smooth coat. This helps prevent hair from getting all over the house and keeps them looking their best.
Exercise and playtime can be as simple as a game of fetch or a walk around the block. However, be prepared to give them off-lead time in a safe area where they can run freely and enjoy themselves.
Their smooth coat sheds more than their wire-haired counterparts, so be prepared for regular grooming sessions.
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Owning Essentials
Having a reliable roof over your head is crucial, and the average lifespan of a well-maintained roof is 20 to 30 years.
A well-stocked pantry is essential for any homeowner, and it's recommended to store at least 1-2 weeks' worth of non-perishable food items.
A working HVAC system is vital for maintaining a comfortable temperature, and most systems last for 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Regular car maintenance can save you money in the long run, and it's recommended to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
A reliable vehicle can last for 200,000 miles or more with proper care, and the average cost of owning a car is around $8,500 per year.
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Health and Nutrition
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a hardy breed, but like all breeds, it's not immune to health issues. Deafness is a problem that can affect predominantly white dogs, and it's essential to work with a breeder who's aware of this issue and taking steps to address it.
If you're considering bringing a Smooth Fox Terrier into your family, it's crucial to be aware of the potential health concerns. These include deafness, cataracts, Legg-Perthes disease, lens luxation, and hip dysplasia. With proper care and attention, many of these conditions can be managed, and your dog can live a happy and healthy life.
Here are some health tests that are recommended for Smooth Fox Terriers: eye, knee, and cardiac. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can also help prevent or manage health issues.
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Health and Conditions
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a generally healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Obesity is a major concern, as it can lead to other problems if not managed properly.
Exercise and a balanced diet are crucial to maintaining a healthy weight. If you're considering bringing a Smooth Fox Terrier into your family, make sure you're prepared to provide regular exercise and a nutritious diet.
Some potential health issues to watch out for in Smooth Fox Terriers include cataracts, glaucoma, and lens luxation. These conditions can affect the eyes and may require surgery or medication to treat.
Deafness is also a possible issue in Smooth Fox Terriers, particularly in dogs with predominantly white coats. With patience and training, however, deaf dogs can thrive with the help of aids like vibrating collars.
Here are some potential health concerns in Smooth Fox Terriers, organized by category:
- Cataracts, glaucoma, lens luxation (eye issues)
- Deafness, patellar luxation (mobility and hearing issues)
- Cardiac disease, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, neurological issues (organ and system issues)
- Obesity (weight management issue)
Food and Diet
To keep your Smooth Fox Terrier healthy and happy, it's essential to feed them high-quality dog food that's complete and balanced. Choose a food that's formulated for smaller breeds and is approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
The Smooth Fox Terrier is prone to obesity, so it's crucial to measure their food and feed them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. This will help prevent overeating and keep them in good shape.
The recommended daily amount of food for an adult Smooth Fox Terrier is 1.5 to 2 cups of high-quality dog food, divided into two meals. You should also give them regular nail trims to keep their feet in good condition and protect your shins from scratches.
If you're unsure whether your Fox Terrier is overweight, give them the eye test and the hands-on test. You should be able to see a waist when looking down at them, and you should be able to feel their ribs without having to press hard when placing your hands on their back.
Grooming
Grooming is an essential part of Smooth Fox Terrier care. They require regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons in the spring and fall.
Their coats are short yet dense, and a good brush through the coat a couple of times a week will keep them looking neat. This will also remove debris from the coat, which is especially important given their love of exploration.
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Establishing a dental hygiene routine early on is crucial for your Smooth Fox Terrier's health. Brushing their teeth regularly will help prevent problems like gum disease and tooth loss.
Regular ear checks are also necessary, and cleaning them as needed will keep your dog's ears healthy. Don't forget to keep their fast-growing nails trimmed and in tip-top shape.
If you're uncomfortable trimming your dog's nails, your vet or groomer can do this for you. Regular grooming will also help prevent health problems and reduce the need for expensive vet visits.
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Remove
If you're considering removing a smooth fox terrier from a breeder, be aware that some breeders may not take back dogs they've sold, so it's essential to research and understand their return policies beforehand.
The smooth fox terrier breed standard emphasizes the importance of a dog's temperament, so if a breeder is prioritizing physical characteristics over a dog's personality, it may be a red flag.
Removing a dog from a breeder can be a complex process, and it's crucial to understand the laws and regulations surrounding animal welfare in your area.
Some breeders may have specific requirements or restrictions for returning dogs, such as proof of veterinary care or behavioral issues.
In some cases, breeders may offer a "rehoming" service, which can be a more suitable option for owners who need to rehome their dog.
Similarly Sized Breeds
If you're considering bringing a Smooth Fox Terrier into your family, you may want to explore other breeds of similar size. The Wire Fox Terrier, for example, is nearly identical in size to the Smooth Fox Terrier, with a 99% similarity in breed characteristics.
If you're looking for a smaller version of the Smooth Fox Terrier, you might consider the Affenpoo, Yorkeltie, or American Hairless Terrier, all of which are 97% similar in size. These breeds are great options if you want a smaller dog with a similar energy level and temperament to the Smooth Fox Terrier.
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The Mini Ratzer is another breed that's similar in size to the Smooth Fox Terrier, with a 96% similarity in breed characteristics. This breed is a great option if you want a smaller dog that's still energetic and playful.
Here are some breeds that are similar in size to the Smooth Fox Terrier:
- Wire Fox Terrier (99% similar)
- Affenpoo (97% similar)
- Yorkeltie (97% similar)
- American Hairless Terrier (97% similar)
- Mini Ratzer (96% similar)
Sources
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- https://www.greencrossvets.com.au/pet-library/breed-guide/dog/is-a-smooth-fox-terrier-right-for-your-family/ (greencrossvets.com.au)
- https://www.vidavetcare.com/dog-breed/smooth-fox-terrier/ (vidavetcare.com)
- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/smooth-fox-terrier/ (akc.org)
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) (ofa.org)
- Smooth Fox Terrier Dog & Puppy Breed and Adoption Info (petfinder.com)
- Smooth Fox Terrier Dog Breed Information and Pictures (dogbreedinfo.com)
- Smooth Fox Terrier | Dog Breed Facts and Information (wagwalking.com)
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