MyDogBreeds
Miniature Fox Terrier is originated from Australia but Fox Terrier (Smooth) is originated from United Kingdom. Miniature Fox Terrier may grow 11 cm / 4 inches shorter than Fox Terrier (Smooth). Both Miniature Fox Terrier and Fox Terrier (Smooth) are having almost same weight. Both Miniature Fox Terrier and Fox Terrier (Smooth) has almost same life span. Miniature Fox Terrier may have less litter size than Fox Terrier (Smooth). Miniature Fox Terrier requires Low maintenance. But Fox Terrier (Smooth) requires Moderate maintenance
Known as Mini Foxies or Toy Fox Terriers, these dogs hail from Australia, having been bred there since the 1800s already.
They are descendants of fox terrier types which were bred in England and then brought to Australia by early settlers.
It is believed the small Smooth Fox Terriers were crossed with Manchester Terriers and then the puppies further bred and crossed with other small breeds. The idea was to have a small, light, quick dog. The Miniature Fox Terrier is exactly like this, developed as a hunting dog.
The Smooth Fox Terrier is one of two Fox Terrier breeds, the other being the Wirehaired Fox Terrier. Fox Terriers are believed to be one of the oldest terrier breeds and the ancestor of many terriers who came after. The Fox Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885 and the smooth Fox Terrier as a separate breed 100 years later in 1985. Some clubs still consider the two types of Fox Terriers as the same breed. The standard for smooth Fox Terrier was written in 1876 but not accepted until 1985.
Both breeds of Fox Terriers are thought to originate in the late 1800’s descended from various British Terriers, the beagle, the dachshund and the Fox Hound. The Smooth Fox Terrier has a base coat that is white. The hunters bred them this way, so they would not mistake them for the fox during the hunt. They have also been very successful in prestigious dog shows including Crufts in England and New York Westminster in the United States.
They are not that popular today unless you are hunting and showing them in Confirmation Competitions. However, the Smooth Fox Terrier is significant because of all the terriers that consider it their direct ancestor. This would include the Jack Russel, the Rat Terrier and the Miniature Fox Terrier.
With longevity on his side, the Miniature Fox Terrier can live to be between 10 and 14 years of age or live to be even older - up to 18 years of age.
He stands at between 24 – 30cm and weighs anything between 3 and 6kg. His coat is short but he sheds quite a bit so regular brushing will become necessary.
The coat is smooth and is mostly white and tan or white and black but it can be tri-colored too – white, black and tan.
The ears are semi-erect, semi floppy and he has a bright, expectant look about him. The tail has always been traditionally docked, giving him a distinctive look, but now it tends to be undocked.
Your Miniature Fox Terrier is a bold little dog, and is protective and loyal towards his human family. He is lively and courageous and has lots of energy so he will be wanting lots of games indoors and out. He will love to go on a walk every day.
They make great family pets, getting on well with children and other pets in the home. They’re adaptable and can do well in the city or the countryside.
The Smooth Fox Terrier is distinguished from the Wirehaired and other terriers by his V-shaped head and white based coat. The coat can have tan, black and black and tan marks on the white coat. The Smooth Fox Terrier is sturdy, strong, sleek and symmetrical. The breed has a short back, and proportioned legs. The Smooth Fox Terrier has a flat skull and tapered muzzle. The nose is black, and the eyes are dark. He has v-shaped ears and a docked tail. Docking is no longer legal throughout the United Kingdom.
Miniature Fox Terriers aren’t going to disappoint you one bit in terms of making an excellent pet.They make great family pets. They are loyal companions and they also make great watchdogs, being able to adapt to life in the city as well as the countryside.
They can yap quite loudly so you need to be careful of this if you live in a small property in the city.
This is such a jaunty little dog, full of fun and high spirits. You won’t know a dull moment with such a friendly, entertaining little pet. In exchange for all he offers you in terms of friendship, he also wants your love and attention.
Provide him with good food, a good deal of exercise, a dry, warm place to sleep and your ongoing attention and he is going to shower you with his love and loyalty.
Children friendliness They shouldn’t be trusted with young children but if raised with older children ok
They are good at performing tricks, Search and rescue, narcotics detection, tracking, and disability assistance.
Fox Terrier is adaptable and can live anywhere. He is not a big dog but remember he is very high energy.
They have very good learning ability and are very intelligent but can be stubborn
Your Miniature Fox Terrier can live to be between 10 and 14 years of age when looked after well, but there are one or two common dog illness that can plague any dog, and Paella Luxation is one.
Patella luxation is fairly common with small dogs, occuring when the dog’s kneecap becomes dislocated from its thigh bone.Your dog will skip and hop along. Treatment for patella luxation can range from non-invasive treatments such as massage to surgery.
Dental health is important too, and seriously bad breath can be indicative of dental decay. Dental plaque can cause bad breath and lead to other health problems that aren’t directly related to teeth. The heart and kidneys can be put at risk. There are dental products such as canine toothbrush and toothpaste which can be used to clean your dog’s teeth. Don’t ever use human toothpaste as this can be toxic for your pet.
One of the major problems for the Smooth Fox Terrier that the Wirehaired does not face is the potential for deafness. This is an issue in dogs that are mostly white in color. Other concerns that he does share with the Wirehaired Terrier are:
Causes muscle weakness and problems swallowing.
Feed your terrier a quality commercially manufactured dog food twice a day. They are small dogs, but highly energetic so choose dog foods which are geared towards small, energetic dogs.
His age and his activity levels will also give you an idea as to what to feed him. Apart from dry kibble, give him simple, tasty, nutritious home-made food too.Every now and again, add in boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and some cooked vegetables such as potato, carrots and spinach. A little bit of raw meat occasionally can also do wonders.
Keep meals plain and simple like this to avoid stomach upsets.
Ensure your pet has constant access to fresh, cool water.
Brush him twice a week to keep the coat free of loose hair. Try and avoid bathing your pet as it causes dry skin and itchiness. Rather wipe him down with a rubber grooming mitt to keep him groomed.
Check his eyes and ears for infection. Check for fleas and ticks and any unusual lumps. Trim his nails too.
Take him to the vet when he appears to be ill and keep his vaccines up to date.
Feed 2-3 meals per day and divide 1/8-1/4 cup
Feed two meals per day and divide ½ cup
hearing and vision
The Smooth Fox Terrier is an athlete requiring a lot of exercise. Take him on long walks and play with him in a large fenced yard. Don’t coup him up in the house. Be careful not to exercise him off leash as he will chase anything that moves and will not come when called. They need mental stimulation as well as physical. They are good at hunting, agility, tracking, performing tricks and being a watchdog.