SO YOU WANT TO BE OWNED BY A FOX TERRIER
The first question is - Why?
Do you want a dog as:
(a) a companion ?
(b) a watch dog ?
(c) a pal for the children ?
(d) no specific reason - would just like one.
If the answer is (d) then, as yet, you are not ready for any breed of dog.
A Fox Terrier is a. b. c. all rolled into one. He is gay, fearless, a clown and a devoted friend. If you require a dog just to live quietly in the yard and sleep on the door step, a Fox Terrier is NOT for you.
Fox Terriers require lots of company, plenty of exercise and preferably some relaxing time. In return your foxy will give you undivided loyalty. Fox Terriers are an excellent children's dog, joining in ball games. cricket, swimming, flying Frisbees, skate board riding. even surf board riding at the beach. He is also an excellent hunter and rodent dispatcher - and it is all done with glee.
Being intelligent and independent it is likely that a Fox Terrier pup will be mischievous and may wander off to find his own fun if you do not have a secure yard.
One very important point before you purchase a Fox Terrier or any sort of pup never get it as a toy for your children. All toys are played with for awhile and them forgotten about, a dog is around for approximately 14 years.
Question Two.
Which type of Fox Terrier is good for you?
There are two types of Fox Terriers. The wire coated variety and the smooth coat There is NO such breed as a miniature fox terrier. Any puppies sold as Miniature Fox Terriers are most likely the result of cross breeding.
The wire coated variety has a harsh wiry coat which requires a lot of attention if he is to be kept looking very smart. The coat would need to be clipped into shape about 4 times a year and regular brushing to keep him looking smart.
The smooth variety has a short dense coat which requires less maintenance to keep him looking smart and sparkling clean.
Question three.
What were Fox Terriers originally bred for?
Fox Terriers were owned by the gentry and working class alike. During the hunt, when the fox went to ground, the Fox Terriers (which were carried in saddle bags on the horses), were brought up and sent in after the fox. Their job was to chase the fox out of his lair so the hunt could recommence. They were not required to kill the fox, as, if they did the hunt would be unable to continue. The working class also bred them to keep the vermin down - a job they excelled in and in sport. Foxies have kept this hunting instinct until this day and some are still employed by the Brisbane City Council as rat catches. Many more are used as rabbiting dogs.
Question four ?
Are you interested in showing your dog?
If you think you may be interested in showing, then before you purchase your Fox Terrier contact a Fox Terrier Club in your state or the State Canine controlling Body. They will advise you.
Not all dogs are good show specimens. Some may be too heavily marked, or too big or too small, or their teeth may not be correct etc. These are usually sold as pets and become much loved members of a family.
Question five ?
How to choose a puppy?
You may know a breeder of integrity and ability. In that case do not consider other methods of approach. A breeder's greatest asset is his reputation...for fair dealings, helpful advice and for the quality of his dogs. From a reputable breeder you can expect value for money, free advice and help in times of an emergency. Should you ever have to part with your Foxy, the breeder is likely to be able to find a new ,home for him. One thing to remember if you are purchasing a puppy. If you purchase a pedigree puppy and something is wrong with your puppy you can always go back to the breeder for a replacement or help in fixing your complaints.
Question six ?
The worst possible way to purchase your puppy is through a market or pet shop.
When buying your pup as a companion it Is recommended that you obtain the puppies pedigree and transfer papers and also join the State Controlling Body for protection against unscrupulous sellers. However we do strongly recommend that you join a Fox Terrier Club in your State. Even if you cannot attend meetings or Members Competitions or Fun days., you can get a lot of help from the club and its members living in your neighbourhood.
What you must get is a good healthy, strong arid intelligent pup. Do not take delivery of your pup until it has been immunised and dosed for worms. The breeder will hand you a feeding program and a vaccination sheet to enable you to keep a record of your pups injections. If you would prefer an older animal contact the Club as these are sometimes available with people wanting to find new homes for their pets, when they find they are no longer able to keep them.
