small Breed Dogs
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Wire Fox Terrier
Average Weight:  16 - 18 lbs. (7.26 - 8.16 kg)
Average Height: Under 15.5 inches (39.37 cm), females shorter than males
Pronounced:   Wy-er  Faux    TEH-ree-er
Group:  Terrier
Life Span: 14 Years
Average Litter: 4
Origin: England

Description

This is a separate breed from the Toy Fox Terrier and is a separate breed than the Smooth Fox Terrier.

The Wire Fox Terrier is quick and keen, forever on the tip-toe of expectation. He has a bone and strength in a small bodily frame, and great endurance. Breeders are very specific about the length of the head which bears a relation to the length of the back. 

The dark eyes are moderately small, deep set and full of firs and intelligence.  Jaw bones are well developed, with a strong set of teeth, giving the appearance of strength to the foreface, the teeth closing in a vice-like grip.

V-shaped and moderately thick, the ears flap neatly forward, close to the cheeks.  The tail is set on rather high is not curled.  It is docked to about 3/4 length where docking is legal. The feet are round and compact with very well cushioned pads.

The coat that most breeders strive for appears to be "broken", the hairs having a tendency to twist.  They are dense and of wiry texture, similar to coconut matting. 

When the hairs are parted with the fingers, the skin cannot be seen.   At the base is  a shorter growth of finer, softer hair which is the undercoat.

Color Information

The predominant color is white. Other accepted colors on the coat are black or tan.  Brindle, red, liver or a slate blue are objectionable.

Personality

 This is a friendly small breed dog, devoted and highly affectionate.  He has an active personality and is always ready to play and run.  He is generally good with children and makes an excellent watchdog.  Although fairly friendly with  strangers, he has a tendency to be aggressive toward other dogs and has kept his hunting instinct for small prey such as squirrels, rabbits and snakes.  This is not the best dog for a household with a cat.

Origin & History

Although for almost 100 years, the Wire Fox Terrier was classified with the Smooth Fox Terrier as 1 breed with 2 varieties, in 1984 the AKC approved 2 separate standards and acknowledged the Wire Fox Terrier as its own breed. 

The ancestor is believed to the the old rough-coated, black and tan working terrier of Wales, Derbyshire and Durham and the breed is considered to be about 20 years younger than the Smooth. 

Health

Problems that owners should be aware of include the possibility of:
  • Epilepsy
  • Skin problems
  • Nasal drip
  • Lens luxation
  • Cataracts
  • Shoulder dislocation
    Exercise

    The Wire Fox Terrier enjoys regular long walks, coupled with plenty of play time.  He needs freedom to run around in the yard as well.

    Grooming
      Grooming for a show Wire Fox Terrier and a pet are very different.  Show dogs generally require professional grooming fora complex grooming routine.  For pet Wires, the coat should be brushed with a firm bristle brush and bathed with necessary (every 3-4 weeks). 

      An occasional stripping at a grooming parlor will be needed from time to time. This is the process of thinning out the hair without clipping the length.

      Shedding

      Shedding is minimal, as loose hairs fall back into the wiry coat.  Brushing will help to keep these hairs from matting together.

      Care & Training

      Care must be taken to always walk with a leash, as he is apt to give chase to small creatures such as birds, squirrels, etc.  For this reason, an owner must be patience, firm, consistent and train with proper techniques.  

      If you are thinking about getting a puppy, you may wish to read some important information about purchasing a puppy. Just click here.

      If you already own a Fox Terrier or other small dog, you may wish to click here for more detailed are information.
                   
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