The Fox Terrier in both forms, Smooth and Wire, is known throughout the world, but is from British origins and probably owes its existence to the same types of dog that produced both the Bull Terrier and the Black and Tan (now Manchester) Terrier. Uniformity of type was established in the late 1800s and the original standard for the Fox Terrier was drawn up in 1876.

An active and lively breed, he is likened in the standard to a short-backed, well-made hunter, covering a lot of ground. This is one of the most lively and alert of terriers, whose refinement to his present show excellence has not allowed him to become one whit unsound. Capable of standing up to any amount of exercise, he is always ready to deal with rats, rabbits and, of course, foxes. He is not the dog to let loose on a hillside covered with sheep, but is ideally suited to family life in town or, if he is properly controlled, the country. Although he is small enough to be carried if necessary, he’s tough enough to appeal to the man in the household.