Live Life Team
The Smooth Haired Fox Terrier, or Foxie, is an English terrier breed that was developed for use in foxhunting. Its sole purpose was to flush out the quarry when it went into earth. Initially, the name, Fox Terrier, was generic and covered any small terrier that was used in foxhunting, but the Smooth “Foxie” was thought to have originated from cross-breeding the Black and Tan Terrier with Beagle and Bull Terrier stock, using selective breeding to weed out the larger animals. The earliest documented evidence of the Smooth Haired Fox Terrier as a specific breed was in 1790 with a painting of a dog called Pitch.
In 1875, the Fox Terrier was given recognition by the UK Kennel Club with individual breed standards for the Smooth and Wire being introduced some time later. Originally, they were considered variants of the same breed. The Smooth Fox Terrier has a close, smooth coat. The colour is white with tan or skewbald patches. Markings vary and include saddle markings, spots, and solid blankets of colour.
It has a well-proportioned build, averaging 12 – 15” tall and weighing around 18 pounds. The head is perky and distinctive with a tapering muzzle. The eyes are sharp and alert, and the ears are pointed and folded. It is well-muscled with slim, but sturdy legs. Originally, the tail was docked but now it is either clipped or left long. The Smooth Fox Terrier is intelligent and playful, but it requires plenty of exercise if kept as a companion. It is best kept away from small pets.
