Chihuahua vs Smooth Fox Terrier
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Active People
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Chihuahua might be better if you:
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
- Want a breed known for longevity
Smooth Fox Terrier might be better if you:
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds, known for its lively personality and strong bond with its owner. They typically weigh between 2 to 6 pounds and stand 6 to 9 inches tall. Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat colors and types, including smooth and long-haired. Their large, round eyes and big ears contribute to their expressive appearance. Chihuahuas are known for their confidence, often displaying a bold and sassy attitude despite their small size. They are loyal companions who can be very affectionate, but they may also exhibit a tendency to be territorial or protective, especially towards their owners. They can be wary of strangers, making them good watchdogs, but early socialization is important to help them develop a well-rounded temperament.
Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a small, agile dog known for its lively disposition and strong hunting instincts. Characterized by a sleek, smooth coat that is predominantly white with black and/or tan markings, this breed is compact and muscular. They possess a keen expression and a confident posture, making them stand out in any setting. Smooth Fox Terriers are energetic, playful, and intelligent, often displaying a strong desire to please their owners. They are highly trainable but require consistent, firm guidance due to their independent nature. Their loyalty and affectionate demeanor make them excellent companions, though they can be reserved around strangers. Socialization from an early age is crucial to ensure they develop into well-rounded pets.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Moderate with children
Good with children
Good with Other Dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Light shedding level
Moderate shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Moderately trainable
Moderately trainable
Energy Level
Very energetic breed
Very energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Frequent barking tendency
Frequent barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Chihuahua
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Regularly groom to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suitable for small breeds.
Health Care
Regularly groom to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
Smooth Fox Terrier
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush their coat regularly to remove loose hair and dirt.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suited to their age, size, and energy level.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean their ears and teeth.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Regularly groom to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
Grooming
Brush their coat regularly to remove loose hair and dirt.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suitable for small breeds.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suited to their age, size, and energy level.
Health Care
Regularly groom to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean their ears and teeth.
Additional Care Notes
Chihuahua
- •Brush teeth regularly to prevent dental issues.
Smooth Fox Terrier
- •Schedule consistent grooming sessions to maintain coat health.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. Socialization is crucial, as Chihuahuas can be wary of strangers and other dogs. Begin training in a quiet environment and gradually introduce distractions as they progress.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness
- •small dog syndrome
- •fearfulness
- •excessive barking
- •separation anxiety
Smooth Fox Terrier
Smooth Fox Terriers respond well to consistent and positive reinforcement training methods. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Socialization is critical, so expose them to various people, pets, and environments. Short training sessions of 5-10 minutes are ideal to keep their attention. Use treats, praise, and play as rewards.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness during training sessions
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
- •Digging due to boredom or lack of exercise
- •Difficulty focusing in distracting environments
- •Strong prey drive can lead to chasing small animals
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. Socialization is crucial, as Chihuahuas can be wary of strangers and other dogs. Begin training in a quiet environment and gradually introduce distractions as they progress.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness
- •small dog syndrome
- •fearfulness
- •excessive barking
- •separation anxiety
Smooth Fox Terrier
Smooth Fox Terriers respond well to consistent and positive reinforcement training methods. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Socialization is critical, so expose them to various people, pets, and environments. Short training sessions of 5-10 minutes are ideal to keep their attention. Use treats, praise, and play as rewards.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness during training sessions
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
- •Digging due to boredom or lack of exercise
- •Difficulty focusing in distracting environments
- •Strong prey drive can lead to chasing small animals
Training Resources
Chihuahua Training Guide
Smooth Fox Terrier Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Chihuahua Breeders
Find Smooth Fox Terrier Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.