The fox terrier has a rich ancestry. The first dogs crossed were dachshunds and English hounds. Later, beagles and fox hounds were added to the breeding pool. Originating in the British Isles, this is one of the oldest terrier breeds in existance. Fox terriers were used for getting rid of vermin on farms. Fox, rats and other small animals were no match for these tenacious dogs. Once the terrier found the vermin hiding in the ground, it would dig after it relentlessly, barking, lunging and growling until the animal ran out of its den, giving the farmer or hunter a chance to kill it. Today, there are two types of fox terrier: wirehaired and smooth. Both versions were recognized by the AKC in 1885, but were considered the same dog until they were separated into types in 1984.
The Wire Fox Terrier is a medium dog with a muscular, athletic body but with a flat skull and long muzzles. Their V-shaped ears fold forward. Their coats are double and wiry. The Wire’s coat should be brushed regularly with a firm brush and bathed only when necessary. The dog has a sturdy body and strong neck. The legs of the fox terrier should be straight; the tail set high and the coat wiry. When you part the hair of the coat, you see a short, soft layer of fur close to the body. The coat of the dog should be white with some brown or black markings.
Personality
The Wire Fox Terrier is a feisty, playful and affectionate breed. They are very loyal and make great playmates for children. Like most terriers, this breed can be stubborn and independent, so consistent and assertive leadership should be provided. They need daily exercise otherwise they may be more inclined to be stubborn or feisty. The wire or wirehaired fox terrier is a bold little dog. Wire fox terriers are incredibly intelligent and must be taught obedience from early on. A terrier that is left to its own devices will quickly become destructive. It’s important to note that even though these dogs get along well with others of the same species, they have a high prey drive. This means that pocket pets, cats and other small animals may not fare well in a home with a fox terrier.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Function: | Hunting |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Terriers |
| Life Span: | 12-15 Years |
| Nicknames: | No nicknames known |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Wire Fox Terrier Build Information
The Wire Fox Terrier is a medium dog with a muscular, athletic body but with a flat skull and long muzzles. Their V-shaped ears fold forward. Their coats are double and wiry. The Wire’s coat should be brushed regularly with a firm brush and bathed only when necessary. The dog has a sturdy body and strong neck. The legs of the fox terrier should be straight; the tail set high and the coat wiry. When you part the hair of the coat, you see a short, soft layer of fur close to the body. The coat of the dog should be white with some brown or black markings.
| Size: | Medium |
| Length (Male): | 13-20 in. |
| Length (Female): | 14-16 in. |
| Weight: | 15 – 25 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 4 – 5 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | Docked |
Behaviour and Personality
The Wire Fox Terrier is a feisty, playful and affectionate breed. They are very loyal and make great playmates for children. Like most terriers, this breed can be stubborn and independent, so consistent and assertive leadership should be provided. They need daily exercise otherwise they may be more inclined to be stubborn or feisty. The wire or wirehaired fox terrier is a bold little dog. Wire fox terriers are incredibly intelligent and must be taught obedience from early on. A terrier that is left to its own devices will quickly become destructive. It’s important to note that even though these dogs get along well with others of the same species, they have a high prey drive. This means that pocket pets, cats and other small animals may not fare well in a home with a fox terrier.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | High |
| Barking: | Noisy |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Dominating |
| Energy Level: | Very Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Moderate Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | No |
| Independant: | Yes |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The Wire Fox Terrier is not a dog that sheds frequently. The dog is a breed that needs to be groomed regularly to be kept looking its best. The top coat must be stripped several times each year. This is easy to do but is a skill that must be learned by most new owners. Professional grooming is typically necessary for dogs that will be in the show ring. Other than stripping the coat, the wire fox terrier has the same grooming needs as other dog. Ears, eyes and teeth should be kept clean, and toenails need to be clipped once every four weeks.
| Colors: | Black & Tan, Black & White, Tan, Tri-Color, White |
| Shedding: | None |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Wiry |
Wire Fox Terrier Common Health Conditions
The biggest health concern in this breed is epilepsy. It is though that there is a genetic component to this disease in the breed. Other minor concerns include shoulder dislocation, post nasal drip, lens luxation, and cataracts.
Wire Fox Terrier Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote
Breed Talents and Facts
Life expectancy for the breed is over 15 years. Wire fox terriers need daily exercise. These dogs need to be given firm, consistent rules to follow. The dogs are an excellent choice for active families with children. This medium-sized dog has a flat skull, tapered muzzle and V-shaped ears. The breed standard calls for a dog that is enthusiastic, playful and cheerful. The Wire or Wirehaired Fox Terrier is not known by any other names.
| Training: | Hard |
| Hunting Companion: | Yes |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | No |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | No |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
