Fox Terrier
Complete Breed Guide
"They call me a fox, but I’m a hound at heart!"
Quick Facts About Fox Terriers
Terrier
15–19 lbs
12–15"
No
Based on current listing prices on Puppies.com. Results may vary.
Overview
Fox Terriers come in three varieties: Smooth, Wire, and Toy. All Fox Terriers are outgoing, curious dogs that enjoy watching over the family, digging, and being near their owners. The Toy variety is smaller and tends to be a better fit for seniors and apartment living.
Fox Terriers come in three varieties: Smooth, Wire, and Toy. Smooth and Wire Fox Terriers are very similar. They’re happy and curious dogs that love to bark, dig, and go on adventures. They have a lot of energy and enjoy being the family watchdog. However, their keen alertness also means they get bored easily. Toy Fox Terriers share most of these traits, but they tend to be better behaved than the Smooth and Wire varieties. They’re also smaller, which makes them a better fit for seniors and apartment living. Regardless of the type of Fox Terrier you choose, prepare for a lively, loving dog that craves your attention and companionship.
Temperament and Behavior
Fox Terriers are playful, energetic, and courageous. They bond quickly with their owners and show them plenty of loyalty and affection. Fox Terriers make wonderful watchdogs, but the downside of their alertness is that they get bored easily. If they don’t have enough to do, they’re known to bark, chew furniture, and dig holes in the yard. The only exception is Toy Fox Terriers, who tend to be better behaved than their larger counterparts.
Coat & Grooming
Each of the Fox Terrier varieties has a different coat. Wire Fox Terriers have a rough, broken coat that is mostly white with black or brown markings. They don’t shed much and are good dogs for people with allergies. The Smooth Fox Terrier has a short, smooth coat of hard and dense fur. Their coloring is similar to Wire Fox Terriers, but Smooth Foxes shed much more. Finally, the Toy Fox Terrier has a short, smooth, glossy coat of fur that’s tri-color, chocolate, or tan and white, all with colorful faces.
Lifestyle & Living Conditions
Smooth and Fox Terriers tend to pick fights with other dogs and need to be socialized. They’re playful with kids, but they may bite if provoked. On the other hand, Toy Fox Terriers aren’t a good fit for homes with children, because of their small size and sensitivity to roughhousing. All Fox Terriers are prone to barking and digging if they don’t get enough exercise and attention, so they prefer homes where they can be inside and around people most of the time.
Exercise & Activity
Smooth and Wire Fox Terriers need regular exercise, long walks, and plenty of playtime. Toy Fox Terriers are lower maintenance when it comes to exercise but still need to run around the house, fool around with toys, or play games to get their energy out. Without enough exercise, these dogs will get bored and may act out.
Characteristics at-a-glance
Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.
Fox Terrier FAQs
Common questions about the Fox Terrier breed, answered by our editorial team.
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