Here's why:
* Domestication is a long, multi-generational process: It takes hundreds, even thousands of years of selective breeding to produce a new animal with desired traits like docility, tolerance to humans, and adaptability to living in human environments.
* Foxes are not naturally docile: Unlike wolves (the ancestors of dogs), foxes are naturally skittish and wary of humans. They are highly intelligent and can be difficult to train.
* The famous "silver fox" experiment: The most famous example of attempting to domesticate foxes was conducted by Soviet scientist Dmitri Belyaev. He selectively bred foxes for tameness over several generations, and he successfully produced foxes that were far more docile and less fearful of humans. However, this experiment was not a full domestication. The foxes still retained many wild instincts, and they were not as readily trainable as dogs.
* Ethical considerations: Domestication can have significant impacts on the animals involved. It can lead to health problems and behavioral issues, especially if the animals are bred for extreme traits. Many people are concerned about the ethical implications of domesticating wild animals, particularly those that might be difficult to care for or may suffer as a result of the process.
While there are many fascinating examples of foxes adapting to human environments, like the urban foxes in London, these are not instances of domestication. They are simply animals adapting to a new niche.
In conclusion, while the concept of a domesticated fox might be intriguing, it's not a reality yet. The challenges are significant, and the ethical considerations remain complex.