Smooth Foxingese
The Smooth Foxingese is a cross between the Pekingese and the Smooth Fox Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Smooth Foxingese. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a compact, low-to-ground toy dog that presents a distinctive appearance characterized by their lion-like mane and dignified bearing. Standing 6 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder, these dogs typically weigh between 7 and 14 pounds, with the breed standard preferring dogs not exceeding 11 to 12 pounds. Despite their small stature, Pekingese are surprisingly heavy for their size due to their stocky build and heavy bone structure. The body is slightly longer than tall, with the overall outline approximating a ratio of three high to five long, creating a compact and substantial appearance. The head of the Pekingese is their most striking feature, appearing massive and broad in proportion to the body. The skull is wide, flat between the ears, and combines with the wide-set eyes, prominent cheekbones, and broad lower jaw to create a rectangular, envelope-shaped face when viewed from the front. The breed is brachycephalic, meaning they have a shortened muzzle and flat face. The eyes are large, round, dark, and lustrous, set wide apart with a bold expression. The ears are heart-shaped, set on the front corners of the topskull, and lie flat against the head with heavy feathering that frames the face. The Pekingese coat is one of the breed's most magnificent features, consisting of a long, coarse outer coat and a thick, soft undercoat. The coat is straight and stands off from the body, with profuse feathering forming a distinctive mane or ruff around the neck and shoulders, giving the breed their lion-like appearance. All coat colors and markings are acceptable in the show ring and considered of equal merit, including red, fawn, black, white, sable, and various combinations. The tail is set high, curves over the back, and falls to either side with long, profuse feathering. The gait is unhurried and dignified with a characteristic rolling motion resulting from their bowed forelegs and overall body structure.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Pekingese are not high-energy dogs and generally prefer a relaxed lifestyle with moderate activity levels. They enjoy being close to their owners and make excellent lap dogs, content to spend hours simply keeping their person company. While they can be playful, they are equally happy with quiet time and do not require extensive exercise. They tend to be reserved with strangers and may take time to warm up to new people. Socialization from an early age helps them develop confidence around unfamiliar situations and people. They can be good companions for gentle older children but may not tolerate rough handling or overly boisterous play.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Orthopedic issues affecting Pekingese include patellar luxation, where the kneecap slides out of position, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, involving degeneration of the hip joint. Intervertebral disc disease can affect their spine, particularly given their elongated body relative to their short legs. Dental disease is prevalent due to their shortened jaws, which can cause crowded or misaligned teeth. Skin allergies and fold dermatitis in facial wrinkles require attention and regular cleaning. Congenital heart defects occur in some individuals. The typical lifespan is 12 to 15 years, though careful attention to weight management and avoiding respiratory stress can contribute to longevity.
Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a well-balanced, athletic dog that presents a picture of strength and agility in a compact frame built for endurance and speed. Males typically stand between 14 and 16 inches at the shoulder and weigh 17 to 19 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 13 to 15 inches and 15 to 17 pounds. The breed possesses a distinctively square build when viewed from the side, with the length of the body from shoulder to buttocks approximately equal to the height at the withers. This balanced proportion contributes to their characteristic quick, efficient, and ground-covering movement that allows them to work tirelessly in the field. The head of the Smooth Fox Terrier is one of its most distinguishing features, presenting a long, lean appearance with a flat skull that gradually narrows toward the eyes and continues in a gentle taper to a strong muzzle. The muzzle is powerful and well-developed, tapering toward a black nose, with tight-fitting lips and strong jaws capable of delivering a punishing bite necessary for their original work as fox bolters. The eyes are small, dark, moderately deep-set, and nearly circular in shape, conveying an expression of keen intelligence, alertness, and fire. The ears are V-shaped, small, and moderately thick, folding forward with the tips dropping close to the cheeks rather than hanging by the side of the head. The breed's coat is smooth, flat, hard, dense, and abundant, providing effective protection while requiring minimal grooming. The predominant color is white, which must cover at least half of the body, with markings of black, tan, or black and tan distributed over the head and body. This predominantly white coloring was historically essential as it allowed hunters to easily distinguish the dog from the quarry during hunts. The neck is clean, muscular, and of fair length, flowing into well-laid-back shoulders that enable proper reach. The chest is deep but not broad, and the short, level back provides a strong platform. The tail is traditionally docked to three-quarters length and carried gaily but not curved over the back.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While Smooth Fox Terriers generally get along well with people of all ages, they can be quarrelsome with other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop appropriate behaviors around other animals. They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on companionship and interaction. Despite their small to medium size, they are robust and energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental engagement to prevent boredom-related behaviors. Their playful nature and zest for life make them entertaining companions for active families who appreciate their spirited personality.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Neurological conditions including epilepsy and wobbler syndrome, also known as cervical vertebral instability, have been documented in the breed. Wobbler syndrome affects the cervical spine and can cause unsteady gait and coordination problems. Eye conditions beyond lens luxation include cataracts and distichiasis, where eyelashes grow abnormally and can irritate the eye. Congenital deafness, often associated with predominantly white coloring, occurs in some individuals. Dental disease is common and requires regular attention to maintain oral health. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for known hereditary conditions and can provide health clearances for prospective puppy buyers.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Smooth Foxingese may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Pekingese and Smooth Fox Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.