Wire Fox Terrier Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you considering a Wire Fox Terrier as your next furry companion? If you’re looking for an energetic and loyal pet with a playful personality, this breed may be the perfect match for you. Known for their unique appearance with wiry, curly fur and distinctive facial features, Wire Fox Terriers are a popular choice for many families. However, before making the decision to bring one into your home, it’s essential to understand their characteristics, needs, and temperament. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Wire Fox Terriers such a beloved breed and what you need to know before committing to one as a pet.

Breed Category: Terrier
Country of Origin: England
Average Size:38-41 cm
Average Weight:7-9 kg
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Grooming Requirements: High
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Wire Fox Terrier is a breed of dog that has been around for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to England in the 18th century, where it was bred to hunt small game such as foxes and rabbits. The breed was developed by crossing various terrier breeds, including the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Bull Terrier, and the Beagle. The result was a small, agile, and tenacious dog that was perfect for hunting in the English countryside.

The Wire Fox Terrier was first recognized as a breed by the Kennel Club in 1876. At that time, the breed was known as the Wire-haired Terrier, but it was later renamed the Wire Fox Terrier to distinguish it from other wire-haired terrier breeds. The breed quickly became popular in England and was soon exported to other countries, including the United States.

In the early 20th century, the Wire Fox Terrier became a popular show dog. The breed was known for its distinctive appearance, with its wiry coat and alert expression. The Wire Fox Terrier was also known for its intelligence and trainability, which made it a popular choice for obedience competitions.

During World War I, the Wire Fox Terrier was used as a messenger dog and as a guard dog. The breed’s small size and agility made it ideal for navigating the trenches and delivering messages. After the war, the Wire Fox Terrier continued to be a popular breed, both as a show dog and as a companion animal.

In the 1920s and 1930s, the Wire Fox Terrier was one of the most popular breeds in the United States. The breed was featured in movies and on television, and it was a favorite of celebrities such as President Franklin D. Roosevelt and actress Shirley Temple. However, the breed’s popularity declined in the 1950s and 1960s, as other breeds became more popular.

Today, the Wire Fox Terrier remains a popular breed, both as a show dog and as a companion animal. The breed is known for its energy, intelligence, and loyalty, and it is a favorite of many dog lovers around the world. Despite its long history, the Wire Fox Terrier continues to be a breed that is loved and admired by many.

Size and Breed Category

The Wire Fox Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that is known for its distinctive wiry coat. They typically stand between 33-39cm tall at the shoulder and weigh between 6-8kg. Despite their small size, they are a sturdy and muscular breed with a lot of energy and athleticism. They have a long, narrow head with a pointed snout and small, dark eyes that give them an alert and intelligent expression. Their ears are small and pointed and stand erect on top of their head. Overall, the Wire Fox Terrier is a well-proportioned and balanced breed that is both elegant and athletic.

The Wire Fox Terrier is classified as a terrier breed, which means they were originally bred for hunting small game such as foxes and rodents. They are known for their tenacity and courage, which made them excellent hunters in their early days. Today, they are still used for hunting in some parts of the world, but they are more commonly kept as companion animals. They are a highly intelligent breed that is known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They are also very active and require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, the Wire Fox Terrier is a charming and spirited breed that is well-suited to active families who are looking for a loyal and energetic companion.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Wire Fox Terrier is typically dense and wiry, with a rough texture that is resistant to water and dirt. The fur is usually longer on the body and shorter on the legs, giving the dog a distinctive appearance. The fur on the head is often shorter and smoother, with a softer texture. The fur colour can vary, but is typically a combination of white with black or brown markings. The markings can be found on the ears, tail, and around the eyes. Some Wire Fox Terriers may also have a solid colour coat, such as black or tan. Overall, the fur of the Wire Fox Terrier is an important characteristic that contributes to their unique appearance and practicality as a working dog.

The length of the fur on the Wire Fox Terrier can vary depending on the individual dog and their breeding. Some dogs may have longer fur that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, while others may have shorter fur that is easier to maintain. The fur on the legs is typically shorter than the fur on the body, which can give the dog a distinctive appearance when they are running or walking. The fur on the tail is often longer and bushy, which can help the dog maintain balance and agility. The colour of the fur can also vary, with some dogs having more white or black than others. Overall, the fur of the Wire Fox Terrier is an important characteristic that contributes to their appearance and function as a working dog.

Termperament and Trainability

Wire Fox Terriers are known for their high energy levels and lively personalities. They are a breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are intelligent dogs that are quick to learn new things, but they can also be stubborn at times. This means that training a Wire Fox Terrier can be a challenge, but with patience and consistency, they can be taught to follow commands and behave appropriately. They are also known for their strong prey drive, which means that they may be inclined to chase after small animals or even cars. It is important to socialize them from a young age to help them learn appropriate behavior around other animals and people.

In terms of temperament, Wire Fox Terriers are generally friendly and outgoing dogs. They are loyal to their families and enjoy spending time with them. They can be quite vocal, however, and may bark excessively if not properly trained. They are also known for their independent streak, which means that they may not always be interested in following commands or doing what their owners want them to do. Despite this, they are affectionate dogs that enjoy being around people and are often good with children. They are also known for their bravery and have been used in the past as hunting dogs and even as messenger dogs during wartime.

Known Health Conditions

Wire Fox Terriers are prone to a number of health conditions, including hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain and discomfort, and in severe cases, can lead to arthritis. Another common health issue in Wire Fox Terriers is patellar luxation, which is a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. This can cause lameness and pain, and in severe cases, may require surgery to correct. Additionally, Wire Fox Terriers are at risk of developing allergies, which can cause skin irritation, itching, and hair loss. These allergies can be caused by a variety of factors, including food, pollen, and dust mites.

Another health condition that Wire Fox Terriers are prone to is deafness, which can be congenital or acquired. Congenital deafness is present at birth and is often caused by a genetic mutation, while acquired deafness can be caused by injury, infection, or exposure to loud noises. Wire Fox Terriers are also at risk of developing cataracts, which is a clouding of the lens in the eye that can cause vision loss. This condition can be hereditary or can develop as a result of aging or injury. Finally, Wire Fox Terriers are prone to a condition called Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, which is a degenerative condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, lameness, and muscle wasting, and in severe cases, may require surgery to correct.

Openness to Strangers

Wire Fox Terriers have a reputation for being friendly and outgoing towards strangers. They are known to be curious and inquisitive, often approaching new people with enthusiasm and a wagging tail. This breed is not typically shy or reserved, and they tend to enjoy meeting new people and making new friends. However, it is important to note that individual dogs may vary in their level of openness to strangers, and early socialization and training can play a significant role in shaping a Wire Fox Terrier’s behavior towards unfamiliar people.

When it comes to interacting with strangers, Wire Fox Terriers are generally quite confident and self-assured. They are not typically fearful or anxious in new situations, and they tend to approach new people with a sense of curiosity and excitement. This breed is known for being outgoing and friendly, and they often enjoy meeting new people and making new friends. However, it is important to remember that every dog is an individual, and some Wire Fox Terriers may be more reserved or cautious around strangers than others. Proper socialization and training can help ensure that your Wire Fox Terrier is comfortable and confident in a variety of social situations.

Playfulness Level

The Wire Fox Terrier is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their lively and mischievous nature, making them a popular choice for families with children. These dogs love to play and are always up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war. They have a high level of stamina and require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Their playful nature can sometimes get them into trouble, as they have a tendency to be stubborn and independent. They are intelligent dogs and can be trained with patience and consistency, but they may try to test their boundaries from time to time. Despite their mischievous streak, Wire Fox Terriers are loyal and affectionate companions who thrive on human interaction. They are a great choice for active families who are looking for a fun-loving and playful pet.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Wire Fox Terriers have a lively and energetic personality, making them a great choice for children who enjoy an active lifestyle. They are intelligent and quick learners, which means they can be trained to follow commands and perform tricks easily. Their playful nature also makes them great companions for children who love to play and run around. However, they can be quite stubborn at times, so it’s important to establish clear boundaries and rules from an early age. Overall, Wire Fox Terriers can make wonderful pets for children who are willing to put in the time and effort to train and care for them properly.

Exercise Needs

Wire Fox Terriers require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As an active breed, they need at least an hour of exercise every day. This can include brisk walks, runs, and playtime in a secure area. They also enjoy activities such as agility training, flyball, and obedience competitions. It is important to note that Wire Fox Terriers have a high prey drive and should always be kept on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from chasing after small animals.

In addition to physical exercise, Wire Fox Terriers also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and training sessions can help keep their minds engaged. They are intelligent dogs and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. It is important to provide them with a variety of activities to prevent them from becoming bored with their routine. Wire Fox Terriers thrive in an active household where they can participate in daily activities with their owners.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Wire Fox Terriers have a reputation for being feisty and energetic. They are known to have a strong prey drive, which means they may not get along well with smaller pets such as cats or rabbits. However, with proper socialization and training, they can learn to coexist peacefully with other animals in the household. It is important to supervise interactions between the Wire Fox Terrier and other pets, especially during the initial introduction period.

Housing Requirements

Wire Fox Terriers require a living space that is suitable for their energetic and playful nature. They need a home with a secure and spacious garden where they can run around and play. The garden should be fenced to prevent them from escaping and getting into trouble. Additionally, they require a comfortable indoor space where they can rest and relax after a long day of playing. The indoor space should be well-ventilated and have enough room for them to move around freely. It is also important to provide them with a comfortable bed where they can sleep peacefully.

Wire Fox Terriers need regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They require daily walks and playtime to keep them active and engaged. It is recommended that they get at least an hour of exercise every day. They also enjoy participating in activities such as agility training and obedience classes. It is important to note that Wire Fox Terriers are intelligent and curious dogs, and they require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Providing them with interactive toys and puzzles can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent destructive behavior.

Summary

Wire Fox Terriers make great pets for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They are energetic and require regular exercise, but are also intelligent and respond well to training. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, and can make great companions for children. However, they may not be suitable for households with small pets, as they have a strong prey drive. Overall, Wire Fox Terriers can make wonderful pets for those who are willing to provide them with the exercise and attention they need.

Wire Fox Terrier Dog FAQS