7 things to know before owning a Smooth Fox Terrier

Thinking of bringing home a Smooth Fox Terrier? These cheerful, energetic little dogs may not be the most common family pet, but they have big personalities and are full of love and mischief. We’ve had the chance to work with terriers like them, and let me tell you — they’re not for the faint of heart, but they sure are unforgettable.

Here’s what you really need to know before adding a Smooth Fox Terrier to your life.

They’ve Got Hunting in Their DNA

Originally bred in Britain to chase foxes out of their dens, Smooth Fox Terriers are true working dogs at heart. That instinct is still baked into their behavior today. Expect a dog who loves to dig, bark, chase, and investigate every squirrel, leaf, or strange noise around. They’re curious, bold, and always busy — which can be hilarious or exhausting, depending on your energy level.

We’ve seen these dogs sprint across a backyard chasing shadows, and yes, they will absolutely try to “hunt” your vacuum cleaner or the neighbor’s cat if not properly trained. It’s part of their charm... and their challenge.

High Energy Meets High Intelligence

Smooth Fox Terriers are smart — like, scary smart — and they need mental stimulation along with physical exercise. A bored Foxie is a loud, destructive Foxie. So if you’re not up for daily walks, backyard play, puzzle toys, and training games, this might not be the breed for you.

We recommend at least 30–60 minutes of active play each day. Fetch, frisbee, hiking, or agility courses are all great ways to keep them engaged. Just don’t let them off-leash in open areas unless your recall is rock solid — their prey drive can override any training in a heartbeat.

Friendly — But Not Always With Other Dogs

Smooth Fox Terriers are typically affectionate with their people. They bond closely with their families and can be incredibly loyal and cuddly at home. But with other dogs? It depends.

Some Foxies do fine with early socialization. Others, not so much. They can be scrappy, especially with dogs of the same sex or smaller animals. It’s best to introduce them to other pets slowly and always supervise play until you know how they’ll behave.

Easy Grooming, Low Maintenance Coat

One of the easier parts of living with a Smooth Fox Terrier is grooming. Their short, smooth coat doesn’t shed much and only needs a quick brush once a week. Baths are only needed when they really get themselves into something messy (which, let’s be honest, happens more often with these dirt-loving diggers).

Don’t forget regular nail trims, ear checks, and teeth brushing — the basics that every dog needs to stay healthy.

Health: Generally Good, But Watch for a Few Issues

These dogs are usually pretty sturdy, but like any breed, they have a few known health concerns. Patellar luxation (a loose kneecap), epilepsy, and inherited conditions like deafness or cataracts can pop up. Regular vet checkups — especially as they age — are important.

Also, don’t let their energetic nature fool you: they can still gain weight easily. Keep an eye on their food portions and limit the treats, even during training.

Not a Fan of Being Alone

Smooth Fox Terriers are people dogs. They don’t like being left alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety. We’ve seen these pups chew furniture, bark non-stop, or even try to escape when they’re stressed. If you work long hours or travel often, this breed might struggle without a consistent companion.

Apartment Living? It Can Work — With Effort

They do best in homes with a yard, but if you live in an apartment and can commit to their daily exercise needs, you can still make it work. Just be extra cautious with escapes — these clever little dogs are known to dig under fences or climb over barriers if something interesting catches their attention.

Training and Socialization Are Non-Negotiable

Start young. Be consistent. Use positive reinforcement. That’s the golden rule with Foxies. They respond well to training but will absolutely take advantage of inconsistency. Set boundaries early, reward good behavior, and make training fun.

We’ve found that trick training, agility, or even nosework games are great ways to channel their sharp minds into something productive instead of mischief.

Final Thoughts

Smooth Fox Terriers are not everyone’s cup of tea — but if you’re looking for a smart, spunky, and affectionate companion who will keep you on your toes and make you laugh daily, they might just be the perfect match.

Just be ready for the energy, the sass, and the need to stay one step ahead. With the right training, love, and attention, a Smooth Fox Terrier can be one of the most rewarding dogs to share your life with.