Smooth Fox Terrier

Smooth Fox Terriers are quite similar to their close relatives, Wire Fox Terriers. Like their crispy-coated cousins, Smooths stand no more than 15.5 inches at the shoulder. The distinguishing physical trait, besides coat type, is the head: A Smooth Fox Terrier's head is more V-shaped than a Wire’s. The dense, flat coat is predominantly white, with black, tan, or black-and-tan markings. These cleverly made hunters are strong and sturdy, but never coarse and clunky. Short-backed and symmetrical, they move with the unwavering grace of a pendulum clock.

The Fox Terrier is an old English breed. For almost 100 years it was registered and shown in the United States as one breed with two varieties, Smooth and Wire. Smooth Fox Terriers preceded the Wires in the show ring by 15 to 20 years. At first, they were classified with sporting dogs, a tribute to their keen nose, remarkable eyesight, and stamina in driving foxes from their hole.

Breed Profile

Dog folks tell us, “Once a fox terrier lover, always a fox terrier lover.” These hearty, long-lived companions have a way of endearing themselves to families who like their dogs plucky, alert, and amusing. It’s been said that Smooths are a bit less spirited than Wires, but both fox terrier breeds make vigilant watchdogs and indefatigable childhood playmates. A well-socialized Smooth can coexist with other dogs. They’re cute and comical, but they are terriers: independent, strong-willed, and often ruled by their age-old prey drive.