| The Smooth Fox Terrier | |||||||
| by BUDDY AMATO | |||||||
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The Smooth Fox Terrier is a breed of dog that is recognized for going after foxes, the prey for which it is named. However, at one time all dogs that dug into fox dens were called Fox Terriers. It wasn't until the 1850s that the breed was cultivated and breeding practices were controlled to refine the specific traits of the terrier as it is known today. Presently, there are many recognized breeds of terriers and they make excellent companion dogs. However, the Smooth Fox Terrier is NOT your typical lap dog! An owner of a terrier, no matter what breed (Border, Lakeland, Wire, Manchester, just to name a few) must realize that this dog needs to burn off the energy that is characteristic of the breed. This is not to say that the terrier will not be happy to sit on your lap! It just needs to be exercised during the day to burn energy and keep it content. The Smooth Fox Terrier is at its best for an owner when it has a large yard in which to run. It will spend hours just galloping and playing in the yard; it is not by any means lazy and will not be found lying around under a shade tree all day. The breed originates in Great Britain and at one time each county in Great Britain had its own special Fox Terrier breed. The main gene, however, in the Smooth Fox Terrier descends from the extinct White Cheshire and the Shropshire Terrier; it is also thought that the Beagle has a part of the gene pool of this fantastic breed. As I stated before, the Smooth Fox Terrier can be very energetic and it requires, for the most part, obedience training on a regular basis. This dog is frequently obstinate and strong willed. But if the proper time is put in, it will be an excellent companion dog for you. The Smooth Fox Terrier is often seen in circuses and, if you have watched them perform, you can see what an acrobatically skilled dog this can be. But again, in my opinion, this dog deserves an owner with a large yard. It is not a dog that belongs in a small apartment, nor a dog that belongs to an owner who is not outdoor or exercise-minded. If you have the yard and the energy, this is an excellent breed for you. Grandmaster Buddy Amato operates Amato's Karate and Weapons Academy, 589 Palmer Avenue, West Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom. For more information, call (732) 671-9555.
Copyright Buddy Amato Amato's Goju-ryu Karate, Nunchaku, Bo-staff, Aikido, Sword, Kendo, Sais, Kick-boxing, Tai-Chi and more 589 Palmer Ave, Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom, NJ 07734 (732) 671-9555 |
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