Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier shares its American history with the Wire variety — both developed from English fox-hunting terriers, both AKC recognized, and both managed by the American Fox Terrier Club with identical CHIC health requirements. The Smooth's shorter, harder coat produces a lower-grooming-maintenance dog compared to the Wire, though the terrier character and energy level are entirely comparable. In the US show ring, the Wire variety has historically dominated Best in Show competition, but the Smooth maintains an active following of enthusiasts who appreciate its clean-lined appearance and the slightly more readable expression that the shorter facial hair provides.

The Smooth Fox Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier shared a combined standard until 1984 when the AKC formally recognized them as separate breeds. Both were developed from English hunting terriers in the 18th and 19th centuries and arrived in the US with the English sporting tradition in the late 19th century. The Smooth's shorter coat was originally preferred for show purposes — the wire coat's development came later — and the breed was more common in American competition through much of the early 20th century before the Wire's show dominance was established.

The Smooth Fox Terrier's conformation standard is essentially identical to the Wire's with the coat being the primary distinction: the Smooth carries a short, flat, hard coat with no feathering that gives the breed a clean, sculpted appearance quite different from the Wire's textured, beard-framed profile. The white-dominant coloring with tan and black markings is the same. Males stand approximately 15.5 inches; females proportionally smaller; weight 17-19 pounds for males. The Smooth's expression is often described as slightly more open and easily read than the Wire's beard-framed face.

Same as the Wire Fox Terrier: bold, curious, energy-driven, and fully possessed of the terrier independence and prey drive that defines the type. American Smooth owners frequently describe the breed as slightly more accessible in energy level than the Wire — an individual variation that experienced Fox Terrier enthusiasts note as line-dependent rather than breed-reliable. The stubbornness, the prey drive, and the need for secure containment and daily vigorous activity are consistent across both varieties.

Training approach is identical to the Wire: positive reinforcement, short sessions, variation, and the acceptance that the terrier will test rules persistently and creatively for its entire life. Earthdog trials available through AFTC clubs provide structured prey-drive outlet. The Smooth's more easily read facial expression makes some American trainers feel their signals are more clearly communicated — an anecdotal observation, not a documented training advantage.

Same framework as the Wire but with significantly less grooming investment. The Smooth's coat needs only weekly brushing with a rubber mitt and monthly bathing — professional grooming is not required for pet dogs. Exercise (30-45 minutes vigorous daily), secure fencing, and consistent training are the primary care commitments.

Contact the American Fox Terrier Club for Smooth variety breeders. Request the same documentation as for the Wire: CAER, HLOA DNA, patella, cardiac. The Smooth Fox Terrier's relative show rarity in the US means individual breeders may have smaller litters less frequently — patience and early contact with breeders is recommended.