Overview
The Chilean Terrier descends from Fox Terriers brought to South America in the nineteenth century, crossed with local dogs to make a sharp, compact farm ratter. It looks a little like a Smooth Fox Terrier with a white body and a coloured head, and it carries the same alertness and the same opinion of rodents.
In the UK you will mainly meet them with owners who have Chilean connections or who like rare breeds. Treat one as you would any sharp little working terrier: bright, fast, easily bored and never to be trusted around anything that scurries.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day across two outings is enough for most adults, provided there is something for the brain to do. These are agile dogs that enjoy a game, a sniff hunt or a few minutes of trick practice as much as mileage.
The thin coat gives little protection, so on cold, wet days a shorter, brisker walk and a coat from the owner is kinder than the usual loop.
On the walk
- Prey drive: Squirrels, rats and birds will produce an explosive dash. Keep the dog on a lead anywhere near roads and only use secure fields for free running.
- Recall: Fair in a quiet space, unreliable with a distraction in view. A light long line is a good compromise for a new dog.
- Other dogs: Confident to the point of cheek. Many are fine, but some will square up to much larger dogs, so manage greetings and avoid letting it pester.
- Barking: Quick to sound off at noises and passers-by. A dog that is busy sniffing or working for treats barks less.
Tips for professional walkers
- Use a well-fitted harness; small terriers back out of collars when excited.
- Bring a few small treats and run short training games on the walk. It tires this dog more than a longer route does.
- Check the garden or field perimeter before any off-lead time. Terriers find gaps you will not see.
- In winter ask for a coat and keep the walk moving; smooth-coated dogs lose heat fast standing still.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog ever chased and caught anything, and how strong is the reaction to cats on your routes?
- Is there a harness or a lead the dog is already used to, and does it slip collars?
- How does the dog behave with large or boisterous dogs when it meets them?