A compact, short-backed terrier that packs plenty of bone and muscle into a small frame and stands like a hunter ready to cover ground. The sleek coat lies flat and straight but feels hard, and it grows thickly all over the body.13
Colourswhite with tan markingswhite with black and tan markingswhite with black markingsall white13
Personality what they are like
A bright-eyed, bold and cheerful terrier that is always on the move and keen to join in. It is friendly and generally accepting of people when well socialised, with a strong instinct to chase small animals.12
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High energy: up to about an hour of exercise a day plus play; it enjoys having things to do.32
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
About one brush a week; the short coat does shed.3
Home where they are happiest
Does well in a home that can meet its energy and chase instinct; a secure garden is useful.23
Company who they like around
A friendly, people-loving dog; early socialisation helps it stay relaxed with strangers.2
The story where it all began
Smooth-coated fox terriers were bred in England to follow hounds and drive foxes out of their earths, with Old English White Terrier, Bull Terrier and Beagle blood behind them. Mostly white coats were favoured so hunters would not confuse dog and fox. The breed first appeared in the show ring in 1862 and was the most popular breed in England by around 1900.321
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
It is considered the oldest of the fox terrier breeds, older than its wire-coated cousin.3
2
A Fox Terrier class first appeared at a London show in 1862, and by 1900 the Fox Terrier was England's most popular breed.3
3
A fox terrier called Titina flew on airships with the Italian explorer Umberto Nobile, and one called Igloo joined Richard E. Byrd on his Antarctic trips.2
4
The dog 'Nipper' in the famous 'His Master's Voice' logo is often said to be a Smooth Fox Terrier type, though this is debated.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name 'Fox Terrier' comes from its historic profession of fox bolting, where the dog would drive foxes out of their hiding spots for hunters. The 'Smooth' designation distinguishes it from the Wire Fox Terrier, referring to its short, flat coat.2
Famous ones stars of the breed
Nipper Nipper, the dog listening to a phonograph in the iconic 'His Master's Voice' painting, is believed to be a Smooth Fox Terrier mix.2
Caesar Caesar was the beloved Smooth Fox Terrier of King Edward VII of the United Kingdom, who walked in the king's funeral procession.2
Judy Judy was a Smooth Fox Terrier who served as a ship's dog on HMS Grasshopper and survived a Japanese POW camp, later awarded the Dickin Medal for bravery.2
Champion Talavera Simon Champion Talavera Simon was the first Smooth Fox Terrier to win Best in Show at Crufts, in 1928.2
I wake up and stretch, ready for the day. My human laughs as I race to the door, tail wagging. We go to the park, and I chase leaves and watch squirrels, always ready to join in. I greet everyone with a wag and a sniff, then find a stick to carry. After a nap in the sun, we play fetch in the garden. I love my cozy bed and the cuddles before sleep. Every day is an adventure with my family.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard No. 12, Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1 (Large and medium sized Terriers); current standard published 30 Oct 20161
The Royal Kennel Club
Terrier Group; breed standard dates from 1876; listed as a Vulnerable Native Breed3
AKC
Fox Terrier recognised 1885; Smooth separated from Wire as its own breed in 19852
Popularity Ranked 144th of AKC-registered breeds in 20254
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Smooth Fox Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Smooth Fox Terrier tip
Smooth Fox Terriers love to eat, so keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories and use them for training. Because this breed is prone to allergies and dental problems, choose simple, low-fat treats and brush their teeth regularly, ask your vet for a dental-friendly treat recommendation.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Smooth Fox Terrier, and at what times?
Adult Smooth Fox Terriers do well with at least two meals a day at consistent times, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Talk to your vet for a schedule tailored to your dog's age and activity level.5
What should a Smooth Fox Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and size. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts.6
How often should I bathe a Smooth Fox Terrier?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks. As a general guide, bathing at least once every three months is fine, though you can bathe more often if your dog gets particularly dirty outdoors.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Smooth Fox Terrier need brushing?
A weekly brush is enough to keep its short, dense coat healthy and reduce shedding. The Furry Diary plan also recommends brushing every seven days.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Smooth Fox Terrier's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every three weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer, taking off a little at a time and stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Smooth Fox Terrier need?
This lively terrier needs up to about an hour of exercise each day, plus playtime. It enjoys having things to do, so keep it mentally and physically active.32
How do I look after a Smooth Fox Terrier's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog-safe toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and gently clean with a vet-approved solution, never push anything into the ear canal.7Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Smooth Fox Terrier live?
This breed has a life expectancy of at least 12 years, and many live well into their teens with good care.3
Is a Smooth Fox Terrier good with children and other pets?
A well-socialised Smooth Fox Terrier is friendly and cheerful with children, but its strong chase instinct means it may not be ideal with small pets like hamsters or rabbits.12
Can a Smooth Fox Terrier be left alone?
This people-loving, energetic dog may struggle with long periods alone. It varies by individual, so ask your breeder or vet for advice based on your dog's personality and routine.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Wire Fox Terrier
Parson Russell Terrier
Toy Fox Terrier