🐶 Dog · size Small
Fox Terrier
Small dog breed with unique character.
Photo · Pleple2000 (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Weight
7–10 kg
Size
Small
Lifespan
12–15 ans
Energy
Moyen
Maintenance
Faible
Training
Moyen
The name fox-terrier (from English fox, meaning fox) refers, in reality, to two dog breeds: the smooth-coated fox terrier (smooth fox terrier in English) and the wire-haired fox terrier (wire fox terrier in English). In the 19th century, they were used during fox hunting to drive foxes out of their burrows (hence its name), thus facilitating the task of the hunter who accompanied it. Its coat is hypoallergenic. It is among the breeds predisposed to Tetralogy of Fallot, a cardiac abnormality.
Compatibility
Profile
At a glance
Energy
Modéré
Trainability
Modéré
Maintenance
Faible
Indicative profile — every animal is an individual.
⚡ Key facts in 30 seconds
L'essentiel
- 1Small size (7–10 kg), adapts to most homes.
- 2Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years on average, depending on hygiene and diet.
- 3Moderate energy — 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day are sufficient.
- 4Minimal maintenance — little shedding, occasional brushing.
Chapter 1
Getting to know the Fox Terrier
Origins & history
A story told
Its origin dates back to approximately the 17th century, when the breed was created in England, probably by crossing Beagles, Foxhounds and Dachshunds. This breed was mainly used to assist in fox hunting. Without this dog, this hunt failed when the fox reached its burrow. But the small size of the fox-terrier allowed it to go dislodge its prey at the bottom of its hole. The fox-terrier had to pass tests to prove fit to accompany man in this activity:
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it had to have the same speed as running dogs; it had to be small enough to go after the fox in the bottom of its den; it had to be robust and cunning enough to confront its prey, because the fox could very well turn around and choose combat. The fox-terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds. The term "terrier" was generic until the late 19th century, and referred to a group of dogs of variable type and size that were selected for hunting. The first fox-terrier was a dog called the foiler or old foiler, registered by the CIRCA in 1875, and the breed thus continued the gauging process. The improvement of breed types led to the assignment of the new names found today. The breed stabilized around a few characteristics: medium size, tricolor coat, elongated muzzle, small V-shaped ears falling forward, fine and developed legs.
Character
Daily temperament
The fox-terrier is small in size, but its velocity, agility and elongated jaw with very sharp fangs for its size allow it to stand up to larger dogs. For this reason and its high-held head, the fox-terrier often appears pretentious. In reality, the fox-terrier is lively, intelligent and adaptable. It is readily playful, but will also know how to watch over children, with whom it is very kind. If properly socialized, the fox-terrier can get along easily with other dogs. Very demanding towards its master, it tolerates little being locked up or put on a leash. It can make a good watchdog. Its education must be positive. The fox-terrier will not give up if it is treated brutally. Laxity as well as power relations are discouraged. They can be obedient but they are confident and sure of themselves. They must be given sufficient daily exercise to ensure their physical and mental balance.
Chapter 2
Daily life
What if you adopted your future companion?
The Fox Terrier of your dreams may already be waiting in a shelter. Hundreds of fox terrier (and equally wonderful crossbreeds) are looking for a family in France — every adoption starts a new story.
Editorial recommendation — no affiliate links.
Âge
What human age for a fox terrier ?
The calculator is already set to the breed's adult size (espérance de vie 12–15 ans). Drag the slider to see the equivalence and corresponding life stage.
5 à 9 kg — a giant dog ages significantly faster than a small dog after maturity.
Equivalent human age
28years
Adulte
Most stable period. Monthly weigh-in, annual vet visit, dental care — this determines quality of life in later years.
Method: AVMA table: 15 human years in year one, +9 in year two, then +4 per year for a petit dog.
These equivalences are statistical benchmarks drawn from published veterinary tables. Every animal ages at its own pace, depending on genetics, diet and care. This calculator is neither a diagnosis nor veterinary advice.
Alert
To avoid for dog
Our database lists toxic ingredients and problematic additives by species.
- low-fat cocoa powderModerate
- maltitolModerate
- cocoa pasteModerate
- onion piecesModerate
Calculator · daily ration
How much to give a fox terrier ?
Estimate based on the veterinary formula RER × DER, adjusted for dog. Adjust according to package recommendations.
Result
128 g
per day · 488 kcal
64 g / repas (2 par jour)
Calculation for food of 380 kcal/100g.
Maintenance
Daily care
Hair removal is strongly suggested, but fox-terrier hair can also be clipped, although the hair often loses its color and tends to curl. For the smooth-haired fox terrier, it is not necessary to groom the coat. However, it is advisable to brush it so it does not fall out constantly.
Appears in
Fox Terrier in our rankings
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about Fox Terrier
Is the Fox Terrier suitable for apartment living?+
How much exercise per day for a Fox Terrier?+
What is the life expectancy of a Fox Terrier?+
Is the Fox Terrier good with children?+
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For more information
Sources & official links
Supplementary documentation on reference sites — breed clubs, encyclopedias, veterinarians.
The right score for your Fox Terrier.
SokoScan calculates a personalized PawScore based on breed, age, weight and your pet's sensitivities. Free, instant.