Facts & Origin
Boston Terrier and Fox Terrier in one
The Foxton is a cross between the Fox Terrier - usually the smooth-haired variety - and the Boston Terrier. This hybrid breed was specifically bred to create a small, compact and active companion dog that combines the spirited nature of the Fox Terrier with the friendly nature and shortened muzzle of the Boston Terrier.
Breeding probably began in North America, where Boston Terriers are particularly popular. The Foxton should be a dog that is easy to handle in everyday life, but also has a watchful, alert behavior - an all-rounder in a small dog format that is suitable for urban life as well as for active owners.
Name synonyms for the Foxton
The name Foxton has established itself as a short name. Other terms such as Foxie-Boston or Boston Fox Terrier Mix are also commonly used, but are less widespread. Regardless of the name, it is always the same crossbreed.
Criticism of the Foxton
Criticism of this hybrid breed is mainly directed at the different temperaments of the parent animals. While the Fox Terrier is an energetic, sometimes demanding working dog with a strong hunting instinct, the Boston Terrier tends to be calmer and more people-oriented. In individual cases, this mixture can lead to dogs that are difficult to predict - sometimes very active and motivated to hunt, sometimes affectionate and reserved.
The crossbreed is also not always unproblematic in terms of health: if a very short muzzle is inherited from the Boston Terrier, breathing problems can occur. In addition, there is the challenge of reconciling the Fox Terrier's urge to move with the often more sensitive nature of the Boston Terrier.
Suitability of the Foxton
Properly trained and challenged, the Foxton is an attentive, lively and people-oriented dog that is well suited to active households. He loves exercise, needs mental stimulation and a structured daily routine. Its small size also makes it suitable for life in the city, provided it is sufficiently exercised.
The Foxton can be demanding for beginners, especially if the terrier part clearly predominates. However, those who are familiar with terrier behavior and enjoy training and activity will find him to be a loyal, playful and very present companion.
Alternate Name | Foxie-Boston, Boston Fox Terrier Mix |
Origin | USA - UK |
Life expectancy | 10 - 15 years |
Care requirements | low-maintenance |
Activity level | average |
FCI group | not recognised |
AKC group | not recognised |
KC group | not recognised |
More Boston Terrier mixes
More Fox Terrier mixes
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits of the Foxton
The Foxton is generally a lively, alert and intelligent dog with a fair amount of independence. Many show the energy and courage of the Fox Terrier, combined with the outgoing, people-oriented nature of the Boston Terrier. This often makes them very attentive, playful and interested in their humans - but also demanding if they lack exercise.
With consistent but loving training, the Foxton can be a very reliable companion. He needs clear rules and a stable environment, because despite his small size he often shows a strong self-confidence and wants to be taken seriously. In everyday family life, he is attentive, sometimes territorial, but mostly friendly - provided he has been well socialized.
Character
Usage
Possible diseases of the Foxton
In terms of health, the Foxton carries some risks that can be traced back to the parent animals. The influence of the Boston Terrier is particularly critical if the short muzzle is strongly inherited - this can lead to breathing problems or overheating in hot weather. The Fox Terrier, on the other hand, can have a tendency to skin problems, allergies or epilepsy.
As with many smaller breeds, dental problems, patellar luxation or eye diseases can occur. Regular veterinary checks, a stable weight, a balanced diet and an environment that is adapted to the needs of an active small dog are important.
This is what a Foxton can look like
The Foxton is usually a compact, muscular dog whose appearance lies between both parents. A shoulder height of around 25 to 35 cm is typical, with a weight of 5 to 10 kilograms. Its body appears athletic and agile, with a short to medium-length coat that is usually smooth.
Many color variations are possible - such as black and white, brown, brindle or tricolor. The ears can be pointed or half-tipped, and the muzzle varies from slightly shortened to medium length. The often alert, curious facial expression is particularly striking, reflecting its alertness and willingness to react.
Fur length | short |
Fur | flat coated - rough-haired |
Ear shape | Standing Ears - Tilt-ear |
Tail | stubby - short |
Anatomy | muscular, muscular, square |
Size ♀ | 36 - 44 cm |
Weight ♀ | 6 - 10 kg |
Size ♂ | 36 - 43 cm |
Weight ♂ | 6 - 11 kg |
Suitable For | - |
Known Diseases
Shortness of breath
Difficult breathing can be recognized by the dog's rattling and sometimes accelerated breathing rate.
Patellar problems
Problems with the Patellar can be a displacement or weak kneecap, which is one of the most common causes of lameness in dogs, also because of overweight.
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
Spinal disorders
However, as the dog ages, this elasticity can be lost and completely inhibited by diseases such as spondylosis.
Numbness
Often occurs in old age.
Bone Cancer
May occur with age.
Ataxia
Ataxia (from Greek ἀταξία ataxia 'disorder' 'irregularity') is a generic term in medicine for various disorders of movement coordination. Ataxia can occur even when there is no paralysis (paresis), that is, when there is normal muscle strength.
Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathies of dogs are a series of slowly progressing neurological diseases associated with destruction of the spinal cord. These diseases are associated with slowly progressive movement disorders of the hindquarters.
FAQ
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A Foxton will have physical characteristics of both parent breeds. They will probably have the short, stocky build of a Boston Terrier with the long muzzle and erect ears of a Fox Terrier.
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An adult Foxton weighs around 18-25 kg.
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The average life expectancy of a Boston Terrier-Fox Terrier mix is 12-15 years.
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Yes, Foxtons are great family dogs! They are generally friendly, energetic and loyal dogs who love to be with people.
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Yes, Boston Terriers and Fox Terrier mixes are generally easy to train. They are intelligent dogs that learn new commands and tricks quickly.