Wire Fox Terrier

Wirehaired Fox Terrier
akc akc
ankc ankc
ckc ckc
fci fci
nzkc nzkc
rkc rkc
ukc ukc
Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Wire Fox Terrier is a lively and intelligent breed originating from England, known for its fox-hunting history and distinctive wiry coat. These dogs are affectionate with family, require high exercise levels, and regular grooming.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in England in the 19th century to hunt foxes, driving them from their dens during hunts.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
FemaleUp to 15.5 inchesAround 16 pounds
MaleUp to 15.5 inchesAround 18 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Predominantly white with markings of black and/or tan
Type
  • Dense, wiry, and broken
Length
  • Short to medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Low
Grooming
  • Regular, including hand stripping
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Long and strong
Skull
  • Flat and moderately narrow
Ears
  • Small, V-shaped, and dropping forward
Eyes
  • Dark, round, and full of expression
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Powerful and well-chiseled
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Clean, muscular and of moderate length
Forequarters
  • Shoulders sloping, forelegs straight
Fore Legs
  • Straight and muscular
Hindquarters
  • Strong and muscular
Hind Legs
  • Muscular and well-bent stifles
Feet
  • Small, round, and compact
Tail
  • Carried erect, docked to medium length
Gait
  • Free, effortless, and energetic

Temperament

  • Alert, intelligent, spirited, and sometimes stubborn

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very affectionate
Good with Children
  • Good with older children
Good with Dogs
  • Can be good with other dogs with proper socialization
Good with Cats
  • Can be good with cats if raised together
Openness to Strangers
  • Friendly, but can be reserved at first
Playfulness Level
  • Very playful
Protective Nature
  • Moderately protective
Adaptability Level
  • Moderately adaptable

Working Roles

  • Fox hunting, vermin control, family companion, show dog

Exercise Needs

  • High; requires daily exercise

Health

  • Generally healthy, but prone to some genetic conditions like lens luxation and patellar luxation

Additional Notes

  • Known for their terrier traits, they require consistent training and mental stimulation. Regular grooming, including hand-stripping, is necessary to maintain their coat.

References