My Dog Training Secrets 

Fox Terriers are mainly white with black or black and tan markings. They are hardy and long- lived, and with their sleek easy-care coat and handy 15-20 pound size they are small enough to fit anywhere, but big enough for rough and tumble play with children. This breed is an excellent children's dog, joining in ball games. He is also an excellent hunter and rodent dispatcher - and it is all done with glee. Fox Terriers are probably the liveliest and most energetic of all the terrier breeds. Fox terriers are independent and are not pack dogs. In a pack they try to exert their dominance.

Fox Terriers are ever alert and will go to the attack if there is danger, but they are not unfriendly towards strangers. They are known to jump and climb tall fences. These dogs are hearty and usually active until the end. These are fabulous dogs which, if in neglectful hands, can become a nuisance. But responsible, reliable people would find it hard to name a better breed. There are two varieties, the Smooth and the Wire-haired, both being hardy breeds.

Smooth Fox Terriers

Smooth Fox Terriers feature an easy-care coat, while Wires must be plucked or clipped, but do not shed. Smooth Fox have medium length hair that lies smoothly on the body. It is a rather stiff hair and tends to stick to and embed in clothing and fabric furniture.

Smooths get on well with children and do make ideal family pets. They have to be socialized from an early age especially with cats and any other household pets. Smooth Fox Terriers are very smart and learn quickly, both good things and bad things. If you don't want your Terrier to do something, don't let it happen the first time. Bred as hunters, they can see other pets as prey. If you have a cat, bird or hamster, and are getting an adult dog, be sure to find out if your dog has been with any of these pets before you bring him home.

Wire Fox Terriers

Wire Fox Terriers are high-energy dogs with loads of personality. They love to spend their days bouncing around the yard, wrestling on the carpet and exploring the neighborhood. Wires do have a strong chase instinct. Many can live with cats if they are introduced to them as puppies, but rarely would one be able to resist chasing a cat otherwise. This breed is a very loyal and devoted dog that loves to please and keep their owners happy.

Wire Fox Terriers should have their hair stripped and scissor clipped in some areas, but most people either do not know how to strip or do not feel comfortable doing the stripping. Wires are compact dogs with v-shaped ears and thick muscular necks. This breed has powerful jaws. Wires can be determined escapers, so if you want peace of mind a secure yard is a necessity. They enjoy exercising and releasing energy and tend to be very loyal to their owners.

Wire Fox Terriers are of great interest since they display power through excellent endurance capabilities and speed. Alertness and quick movements are the dominant expressions of this dog type. Wire Fox Terriers need a large yard to run and play in. They love to play fetching games and are great Frisbee players. This breed can be somewhat aggressive and may try to challenge other dogs as well. It is important that the owner of the Wire Fox Terrier consider staying at home with the dog most of the time at the beginning in order to train the dog properly.

Toy Fox Terriers

Toy Fox Terriers don’t like cold weather and hate wet weather. This breed should wear a sweater when going outside in cool weather and use a harness instead of a collar to prevent damage to its trachea. They are quick to learn, but can be stubborn. These dogs are small enough for apartment life, but do best when they have somewhere to run and play. However, in colder climates, it is best to keep them indoors as they are not tolerant of extremely cold temperatures.

Generally considered to be a healthy dog, Fox Terriers may be more likely to experience deafness (especially all white dogs). Also, be sure to check for glaucoma, cataracts, skin conditions or heart disease as the dog ages. Generally, Toy Fox Terriers are comfortable around children over eight years old, provided they are not overly energetic. It is advised that they not be raised around small children as an eight-week-old puppy can only weigh one pound, and a toddler falling on the puppy can cause a disaster.

Training for the Fox Terrier needs to be fun and positive. They do not respond to negative treatment. Training will enhance the bond between you and your dog. Dogs who have a solid obedience education are a joy to live with, they respond well to household routines, have good manners in the presence of people and other dogs, and they fully enjoy the company of the owner who took the time to provide training, intellectual stimulation, and a high quality life.