The wonderful thing about a Wire Fox Terrier is that a Wire Fox Terrier is a wonderful thing. Their tops seem to be rubber, and their bottoms are made out of springs. OK, not really, but the Wire Fox Terrier is known to bounce and ping about like a superball when someone comes to the door. Perhaps this high energy and terrier tenacity is why this breed has won “Best of Show” 13 times, more than all other breeds.
Their white fur is meant to contrast against the foxes they were bred to hunt and their adventurous personalities speak to their working backgrounds. Today, Wire Fox Terriers also work in search and rescue, disability assistance, and narcotics detection.
Originally from England, this medium-sized breed can grow to between 15-19 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 77 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Vermin hunting |
| Today's function | Earthdog trials |
| Average size of male | Height: <15.5 Weight: 15-17 |
| Average size of female | Height: <15.5 Weight: 15-17 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A WIRE FOX TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Wire Fox Terriers are outgoing and confident. This independent and mischievous breed is always ready for her next adventure. This keen, scrappy dog is playful and affectionate, and but might be a bit much for toddlers.
Wire Fox Terriers are generally suspicious of or aggressive toward other dogs and pets. This dog might also be reserved toward strangers.
WHAT IS WIRE FOX TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
The Wire Fox Terrier is a terrier through and through. She wants to be chasing, hunting, running, exploring, and playing as much as caninely possible. Many also bark and dig, so be sure to discourage nuisance barking and keep an eye on her in the backyard, unless you like your flower beds full of holes. (No judgment, we don't know your life.) These dogs are built for power and endurance; they're fast enough to keep up with hounds and horses during a hunt.
This is an alert and very active breed. Your Wire Fox Terrier needs daily opportunities to run, play, and burn off her excess energy.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A WIRE FOX TERRIER?
Wire Fox Terriers respond well to training but can be a real challenge for novices. Start early and be patient and consistent with this pup. Their prey drive is real, so these dogs aren't great candidates for off-leash play outside a well-fenced area.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO WIRE FOX TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
The dense coat of a Wire Fox Terrier feels a little like a coconut husk. Plan on regular brushing and occasional baths, as well as professional clipping or hand stripping to keep up appearances.
Wire Fox Terriers are infrequent shedders.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO WIRE FOX TERRIERS HAVE?
As a breed, Wire Fox Terriers are generally healthy. Some are susceptible to heart disease or slipping kneecaps. Skin conditions may occur as well, if not properly groomed.
