Understanding the Health and Care of the Fox Terrier

Quick answer

Fox Terriers are energetic and intelligent dogs that require consistent daily exercise and mental engagement to remain healthy. While they are generally robust, owners should be aware of specific health predispositions affecting their heart, joints, eyes, and skin. By monitoring for subtle changes in behavior or physical appearance, you can work with your veterinarian to address potential issues early.

Heart Health: Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease involves the degeneration of the heart valves, which can eventually lead to a heart murmur. At home, you might notice your dog tiring more easily during exercise, coughing, or showing signs of labored breathing. Your veterinarian will use a stethoscope to listen for the characteristic murmur during routine examinations. An echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart, is the definitive test to assess the valve structure and heart function. If you notice a persistent cough or a sudden decrease in stamina, this requires prompt veterinary assessment to determine if treatment is needed to support heart function.

Joint Mobility: Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal position. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice your dog skipping steps, holding a hind leg up for a few seconds, or showing an unusual gait while walking or running. A veterinarian will physically manipulate the knee joint to check for instability. In some cases, X-rays are used to evaluate the severity of the displacement. If your dog suddenly refuses to put weight on a leg or shows signs of pain, this warrants an urgent check to prevent further damage to the joint.

Eye Health: Lens Luxation

Lens luxation is a condition where the lens of the eye shifts from its normal position. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might see the eye looking cloudy, notice the dog squinting, or observe redness around the eye. A veterinarian will perform an ophthalmic examination, often using specialized lights and magnification, to visualize the position of the lens. This condition can be painful and may lead to a rapid increase in eye pressure, making it a medical emergency. If your dog appears to be in pain or the eye looks cloudy, seek veterinary care immediately.

Eye Health: Cataracts

Cataracts involve the clouding of the lens within the eye, which can interfere with vision. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners often notice this when the dog seems to struggle in low light or bumps into furniture. Your veterinarian will examine the eye to determine if the cloudiness is in the lens itself or on the surface of the eye. While some cataracts progress slowly, others can develop more quickly. Regular eye exams are the best way to track any changes in vision.

Skin Health: Skin Allergies

Skin allergies are a recognised tendency in the breed. You will likely notice your dog scratching, licking their paws, or rubbing their face against carpets or furniture. The skin may appear red, inflamed, or thickened in areas. A veterinarian will often start by ruling out parasites like fleas or mites. If those are cleared, they may perform skin scrapings or suggest an elimination diet to identify potential allergens. The most common mistake owners make is waiting too long to address the itching, which allows secondary infections to develop from constant scratching.

Skin Health: Genetic Skin Conditions

In Wire-haired varieties, genetic skin conditions are a recognised tendency in the breed. These can manifest as dry, flaky skin, hair loss, or unusual texture changes. Because these conditions are often linked to the breed's genetics, it is important to work with a vet to find a management plan that keeps the skin barrier healthy. Regular grooming and appropriate shampoos are often part of the long-term maintenance strategy.