The Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier, together with his wire cousin, has been around for a very long time. Bred in England as a gamey, working terrier, they still retain the courage and tenacity to do their original job. Smooths are fearless and hardy – and can just as easily run a household as they can hunt! Don’t let their small size fool you – their attitude is very large. It’s important that they are owned by people who will establish rules from day one.

Smooths are intelligent and very crafty. They can also remember things for a very long time, which can either be good (in the case of retaining obedience commands) or bad (they’ll remember things you wish they’d forget). Being bred to think independently, they can be trained but they will often want to “put their own spin on it”. These dogs love learning tricks because deep down, they love to entertain! It is best to give the dogs a mixture of both trick-training and basic obedience training. You want training to be a lot of fun, but there must also be rules and order.

The Smooth Fox Terrier is an active little dog and can seem to be perpetually underfoot! His activity level also means he eats a lot for his size. Dashing around the house, these guys are often always on the lookout for a game to play – particularly if that game involves chasing or shredding something. A long walk at least once a day is highly recommended, preferably in a large field or other rural area where he can use his nose and engage his brain. If a field isn’t available, however… it’s not the end of the world. These guys are fairly adaptable to city life as well. Because of their high prey drive, a leash is absolutely necessary to keep them from running after a mouse, rabbit or cat. 

Smooths are very affectionate and tend to get quite attached to their owners. They are also good with children as long as they aren’t poked or prodded at. This makes them a good breed for a family who is able to provide them the attention they need. Because they become so bonded with their people, they prefer to go along on trips and outings rather than be left at home. Although their small size affords them the luxury of traveling easily, it isn’t always possible for them to go everywhere so they must be crate trained and taught how to spend time alone. We recommend the Petmate Vari Kennel, which works great for Smooths – https://amzn.to/3B3CUE6

The Smooth makes a great watch dog. His bark often sounds bigger than he is, and he will use his voice freely whenever anyone comes to the door. Like most terriers, he is ready to defend if need be (although his small frame isn’t big enough to do much damage). While he’s not a gladiator when it comes to home protection… he is a force to be reckoned with in the matter of extinguishing vermin! Hunting is this dogs forte! Because they can be so prey-driven, Smooths don’t always get along with cats. Depending on the individual dog, they may be able to live with a calm indoor cat but will probably chase any that roam outside. Getting a low-drive dog as a puppy and raising it with strict rules is recommended for best results.

Smooths are diggers and will happily destroy your garden if given the chance. Searching for gophers and other ground-dwelling animals is a favorite activity – and if there are critters living underneath the dirt, a Smooth will find it (even if that means digging up half your yard in the process)! This tenacity and lust for life is what makes him endearing (for those who can handle him).