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Breed & Info
The Origin and History of the Fox Terrier
In earlier times, people were not so concerned with the appearance of a dog. It had to earn its keep, nothing more. For that, the best offspring from the best dogs were used. That was no different with the small, feisty earth dogs or terriers, which removed mice and rats from the stables in England. In addition, there was a certain mutual rivalry between the owners, which meant that people were not very communicative about the breeding methods they used. Everyone crossed their best dog with other breeds in order to fix certain characteristics in a line. In the case of terriers, small greyhounds were crossed for speed and hunting dogs for a better nose and endurance.
It was not until around 1860 that similar-looking (hunting) dogs were compared with each other at exhibitions and divided into groups depending on their working qualities.
The terriers got their own group.
The predominantly white (small and very fierce) terriers were given the name Fox Terrier, after which the two different coats 'wire' and 'smooths' split up: the current Smooth and Wire Fox Terrier. In the early days, both coat varieties were still regularly crossed with each other. Around 1900, the first (Wire) Fox Terriers were exported to the Netherlands, the Smooth a little later.
General appearance
The dog should give a generally cheerful, lively and active impression: a solid frame and strength in a small space are the first requirements. This does not mean that the Fox Terrier is clumsy or in any way coarse; speed and endurance are of equal importance to strength. The proportion of the Foxhound should serve as an example. Like the hunting dogs, the Terrier should in no case be high on the legs, but neither should it be too low. He stands like a well-built hunting horse and covers a lot of ground with a short back. In this way he achieves the highest degree of driving power. This is accompanied by the greatest length of his stride, which in turn is compatible with the length of his body.
The nature of these dogs
The Terrier should be lively, quick in its movements, piercing in expression, always ready to respond to the slightest challenge. The expression of the eyes and the ear carriage show their nature.
About their health
A well-fed, housed and originally healthy dog that has plenty of exercise, because he needs that, will not be sick much. The Fox Terrier is a strong and tough breed and generally lives to a ripe old age. Always keep a close eye on the dog and consult a vet when in doubt.