La fox terrier breed It is relatively new, as it arose out of the need to remove foxes from their burrows when hunting. This dog is used today mostly as a domestic dog and has great qualities, with liveliness and energy.
This breed has the peculiarity of dividing in two, since the wire-haired dog and the straight-haired dog, with some differences between the two. That is why it is necessary to speak of the two and of their different care when talking about the race. However, we are facing a very similar dog and with good characteristics for company at home.
History of the Fox Terrier
The Fox Terrier was created in the XNUMXth century from other races to get a dog that adapts to the hunting needs of the moment. In the hunts the dogs chased the foxes but the problem came when they took refuge in their burrows. The hunting dogs were too big to be able to get into them, so they thought about getting a smaller breed but with the same resistance and character as other breed dogs. In this way they began to create this breed, in which two types of dog ended up being distinguished by their fur and some characteristics. At present they are separated from each other to maintain this distinction in the breed and that when they are mixed they do not end up being the same type of dog.
The first Fox Terrier to be admitted with breed recognition was a dog named Foiler. Until then they were known as 'foxies', from the English word 'fox' which means fox. That's where its name comes from. With the breeding of this first dog, the path towards the standardization of the breed and its two divisions began.
Smooth-haired dog
The smooth-haired Fox Terrier is easily distinguished by have short straight hair that can be easily cared for. This dog tends to be smaller than the wire-haired one. It weighs about 7,5 or 8 kg in males and 7,5 kg in females. Also, its muzzle is a bit thinner. Without a doubt this is the least known division of the breed in our country.
Wire-haired dog
The Wirehaired Fox Terrier is undoubtedly the most popular and known. This dog has a characteristic coat, which is longer than the straight coat and with a hard texture. They can weigh 10 kg, so they are slightly larger and more compact than those with straight hair.
Common physical characteristics
Both dogs have medium-sized tails, which are held straight. Their ears are high although semi drooping. The coat shows similar colors in both despite their differences. In its vast majority is white, while it shows large brown, tan or black spots. They are athletic dogs despite having a small stature, since it is a breed designed for hard work on hunting days. This makes them balanced and muscular if they are exercised properly. The eyes are small and round, always dark. The muzzle also stands out for being long.
Dog character
Like almost all dogs that have been created for hunting, the Fox Terrier displays an energetic and lively character. At present it has been adapted to this dog as a companion dog, but a good training and a early socialization so that the dog does not develop aggressive behaviors. Excess energy and hunting instinct can lead him to be aggressive with other dogs or animals if we do not socialize him and teach him discipline from a young age. Otherwise, he is an energetic dog that will help the whole family to stay active. A cheerful dog that is perfect to be with children and adults at home.
Fox Terrier care
One of the things that must be addressed if we are going to get a Fox Terrier is that the great energy they have must be spent to make them balanced dog. The breed is designed for long and hard hunting days, so it is a dog that will need to run and enjoy long walks with its owners. It is not the typical dog that may be sleeping indoors for too many hours, so if this is our idea it is better to choose another breed more adapted to a quiet life. During the walks we must take advantage of so that the dog socializes and has good behavior.
El smooth-haired dog It needs almost no grooming for its coat. This type of dog will only need an occasional brushing to keep its coat in good condition. The bath should only be done every few months to keep the skin well. That is why it is the simplest choice if we do not want to worry about the dog's coat.
The wire-haired dog will require some coat care. Hard hair is usually removed with the stripping technique. However, there are many people who go to canine hairdressers to trim the dog's hair and thus facilitate its care.
Feeding this dog must be of high quality, with good amount of nutrients. They are dogs that have a high metabolism, which means that we will not see them get fat, but they will burn their food quickly. It is better to feed them several times a day in small portions to improve digestion. This avoids gastrointestinal problems and also the possibility of developing stomach torsion.
Fox Terrier Health
These dogs are very tough and do not usually have hereditary problems or diseases. They are long-lived, with lives that reach 15 years and over. However, on rare occasions some problems may occur, such as deafness, cataracts when they are older, epilepsy or dislocations. All in all, this dog is in enviable health and won't require too many vet visits. It is certainly a great dog to share a home with. Did you like this dog breed?