The Wire Fox Terrier commonly known as the Wire hair fox terrier, Wire haired terrier or Fox terrier belongs to the terrier breed and has a striking resemblance with the smooth fox terrier. This sturdy, smooth-coated dog has a black nose and V shaped ears that drop to the cheeks. It has a flat skull with dark colored eyes and a docked tail. The Wire Haired Fox Terrier was actually bred to chase hounds and horses. The Wire Poo is a cross between the Wire Haired Fox Terrier and the Poodle. The Fox Terriers are of two types: The Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier.
Dog Breed | Wire Fox Terrier |
Coat | Harsh, rough |
Color | Black, brown, white |
Breed Type | Purebred |
Group (of Breed) | Terrier |
Lifespan | 10 to 13 years |
Size | Small |
Weight | 15to 20 pounds (Male), 13 to 18 pounds ( Female) |
Height | 14 to 16 inches (Male), 13 to 15 inches (Female) |
Shedding | Minimal |
Temperament | Alert and intelligent |
Good with Child | Yes |
Hypoallergenic | Yes |
Barking | High-pitched |
Health Concerns | Deafness, Cataracts, Legg-Perthes disease, Lens Luxation, Canine Hip dysplasia |
Competitive Registration | CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, CET, APRI, ACR, DRA, NAPR, ACA |
This breed was developed in the eighteenth century in England mainly to bring out foxes from their hunting place. They would chase them to their underground burrows and the hunters would use the short, docked tail of the dog as handles to pull it out. However docking is considered illegal in most parts of Europe.
Click here for the list of popular wire fox terrier mixes.
The Wire Fox Terrier is alert, intelligent, self-confident and love to explore. This energetic breed gets along well with children, though being too rough and energetic to play with them. They are even loyal to their families. They are however defensive towards bigger dogs and even pick up a fight with them. It is advisable not to keep them with other family pets unless they have been trained to socialize. They can be taught tricks easily and form an excellent watch dog. The Wire Fox Terriers are also mischievous at time and they often go about exploring the kitchen table or running out into the yard. They are fond of toys, balls and also enjoy playing in the water. They are very good at jumping and escaping. Thus there owners should regularly check the yards to see if they have dug holes underground to escape.
The Wire Fox Terrier needs proper training for the development of adequate behavioral pattern. The puppies are to be trained so they may socialize well when they grow up. Being a hunting dog they are prone to chase rabbits, birds, cats and other dogs. Therefore they should not be taken out without a leash. Crate training is suggested for this breed. The owner should not be harsh on them. If they are taught to socialize and behave they will be well adjusted to people and strangers. The owner should gain control of the dog and not let it dominate. With proper guidance the wire fox terrier can be exciting, amusing and trusted companions.
It is advisable to give high quality dog food that is required and suitable for the breed of this kind. The food should be divided into two equal meals.