Terriers

The Fox Terriers. There are two varieties of Fox Terriers, the Smooth-haired and the Wire-haired. The only difference between them is one of coat, the Smooth variety having a straight, flat, dense coat while the Wires have a jacket like coconut matting. This coat requires a great deal of trimming if the dog is to look smart. Oldest of the two, the Smooth had a humble calling - killing rats in the stables of its owners. It grew in popularity during the nineteenth century. Nowadays it has been largerly overshadowed by its relative - the Wire-hair, but it nevertheless remains a brave, wise and good companion.

The irrepressibly gay, Fox Terrier has brought joy to his friends in many lands. He is an exceedingly alert fellow with an inquisitive, mischievous nature. He wants to be part of everything that is happening, and usually manages to shoulder his way in. Both varieties should stand about 15-16 inches. As their name suggests, these dogs were first of all hunt terriers, bred to bolt the fox from its earth. They are predominantly white in collar with black or tan marking which makes them easily distinguishable from their quarry, and their tails are docked to three quarter length, making a useful handle for huntsman pulling them out of a hole.

The skull of the Fox Terrir should be flat and moderately narrow. The ears should be V-shaped and small, drooping forward close to the cheek. The eyes should be dark in colour, small and rarher deep set. Neck should be muscular, of fair length, and gradually widening to the shoulders. The back should be short, straight and strong. Legs - straight and strong. The Fox Terrier is an enormously energetic little animal with a mind of its own, dedicated pursuer and retriever of thrown rubber balls, and a way of walking that is midway between a prance and dance.