Fox Terrier

The exact origins of the Fox Terrier is unknown; however, the breed  is thought to have come about from crosses of the Old English Terrier, smooth coated Black and Tan terriers of England, Bull Terriers, Greyhounds and Beagles.

The breed can be traced back to the mid 1800’s when both smooth and broken coated types were interbred. Over time, devotees of both coat types bred like-to-like and developed the Wire and Smooth Fox Terrier types as we know them today. In England, Wire and Smooth Fox Terriers have been recognized as separate breeds, with different registries and breed standards, since the late 19th century, while the American Kennel Club did not recognize them as distinct breeds until 1985.

Fox Terriers became a popular dog to own in the late 18^th century England when fox hunting became a popular pastime. They were used by hunters with foxhounds to locate foxes when they went to ground by barking and so pinpointing the position of the fox for the huntsman.

The first smooth haired Fox Terrier to arrive in Australia was brought to Sydney from England in 1868, followed by the first wire haired Fox Terrier in 1876. By 1886, a number of Fox Terriers had found their way to Australia and were exhibited in Centennial Park that year. Interestingly, from 1931 to 1938 Fox Terrier winners were very popular at Sydney Royal Easter Show events, with one particular Fox Terrier winning two years in a row, 1933 and 1934.

Fox Terriers are energetic and intelligent dogs that thrive on regular physical activity and mental stimulation. Their lively nature requires daily exercise, such as brisk walks, active play sessions, or agility training, to keep them happy and healthy. Without enough physical and mental engagement, Fox Terriers may become bored, leading to undesirable behaviours such as digging or excessive barking.

Although they are highly energetic, their exercise requirements are moderate as long as activities are structured and engaging. Be sure to take them on walks to new places because they love exploring new places. Additionally, puzzle toys and interactive games are great ways to challenge their minds and channel their energy positively.

Fox Terriers are quick learners and excel in obedience and agility training, but their independent streak means consistent, patient training is essential. Positive reinforcement works best to keep them motivated, and early socialisation is crucial for developing their confidence around new people, pets, and places.

Fox Terriers have a low-maintenance coat that comes in two distinct types: smooth and wiry. Smooth Fox Terriers have short, sleek coats that require weekly brushing to keep them clean and shiny, while Wire Fox Terriers have a dense, coarse coat that needs more attention, including occasional hand-stripping to maintain its texture. Both varieties shed moderately, so regular grooming helps to minimise loose hair around the home.

While Fox Terriers do not require elaborate trimming or clipping, regular grooming sessions ensure they look and feel their best. Their nails should be trimmed every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort, and their teeth need regular brushing to maintain good dental health.Bathing should be done only as necessary, using a gentle dog shampoo to avoid skin irritation. Checking and cleaning their ears regularly is also important, especially for active dogs prone to dirt and debris from outdoor adventures.