Smooth Fox Terrier

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated April 6, 2009)

The Smooth Fox Terrier was receiving the distinction of a classification at shows more than a decade before a similar privilege was accorded to the Wire-Haired Fox Terrier. Because of his work in driving the fox from holes, and of his keen sight and nose, the Smooth Fox Terrier was first classified among the sporting breeds.

In 1862 at the Birmingham show, there was a class for "White and Other Smooth-Haired English Terriers except Black and Black-and-Tans." The next year, a distinct class was given at Birmingham. There were very few entries, but in 1868 the classes for Fox Terriers were the best filled in the Nottingham show, having 62 exhibited.

During these years, it must be admitted that practically every type of dog with a Terrier aspect and a docked tail was shown in this class. However, some of the better breeders were steadfastly maintaining the highest Terrier standards and by 1876, since the Terriers shown by these breeders were the consistent winners, an ideal was set.

Many stories are related about the pluckiness and fortitude of these early-day Fox Terriers. A dog called Old Jim, at eleven months of age, is said to have tackled a pet monkey which had a savage disposition and was very strong. He had bedeviled the Terrier and when no one was around one day, Jim decided to take up the matter. The monkey was discovered dead in his cage. Jim was alive but somewhat the worse for wear.

The Smooth Fox Terrier is quite popular in this country, being a favorite in city, town, or country. His many good qualities are certain to keep him high in popular favor.

A full sized well-balanced dog should not exceed 15-1/2 inches at the withers and weighing right around eighteen pounds with the female weighing about sixteen pounds.

Additional information on the Smooth Fox Terrier can be found at the website for the American Kennel Club.

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

MORE FROM DORIS

Cooking with Grease and Oil

Grease or oil is a staple in most kitchens. You need to be aware of how to cook with this staple so that you don't hurt ...

Discover More

Time Tracking

Time tracking can be a great tool for quite a few people. If you do your own freelance work, charge people by the hour, ...

Discover More

Aesthetic Potting

Potted plants can be a wonderful addition to any landscaping design, or even if used as a decoration for your home. ...

Discover More
More Pet Tips

Lakeland Terrier

Nimble and quick, the Lakeland Terrier has been used with great success to hunt fox. He is courageous, game and hard working.

Discover More

Sealyham Terrier

Bred primarily for working purposes, the Sealyham Terrier is an avid hunter. He is keen and alert with great determination.

Discover More

West Highland White Terrier

Rugged yet lighthearted, the West Highland White Terrier is an ideal house pet. He is merry, alert, and self-reliant.

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 2 + 8?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)