Fox Terriers are outgoing, alert, active dogs, originally bred to be independent hunters.  Although Fox Terriers have minds of their own, they are very affectionate and companionable.  With their intelligence and determination, Fox Terriers careers today include obedience and agility winners, search and rescue, drug detection and circus performer as well as service dogs for the disabled.  They love the spotlight and have appeared in many films, TV shows and commercials.  Fox Terriers are a high energy breed-lively, cheerful and funny.  But after running and playing, they will sleep all night on your bed or cuddle next to you on the couch watching TV.  In  general, Fox Terriers from reputable breeders are extremely healthy and hardy.

Many people ask if Fox Terriers are good with children and other dogs. Traditionally, Fox Terriers are excellent playmates for children, although some can be too bouncy for toddlers.  Most Fox Terriers get  along well with non-aggressive large dogs but are not usually appropriate companions for smaller breeds, who may spark the terrier's  inborn prey drive.  They can accept and even befriend other animals such as cats and rabbits if introduced in puppyhood.

There are two Fox Terrier breeds, Smooth Fox Terriers and Wire Fox Terriers.  The coat of a Smooth is similar to that of a Beagle.  Wire Fox Terriers, although they do not shed, require stripping or clipping on a regular basis.