The wire fox terrier is an intelligent dog with high energy levels, similar to many other terrier breeds. These charismatic, floppy-eared dogs sport their namesake wiry coats, primarily white with tan and black markings.
Wire fox terriers are small-but-sturdy dogs who can be great pets, hunting companions, and show dogs—especially for those who enjoy a little personality from their furry friends. Just be sure to put in the time to train them properly.
Learn more about the wire fox terrier.
Breed Overview
Group: Terrier
Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 15-19 pounds
Coat: Wiry
Coat Colors: White or white with black and/or tan
Life Span: 13-14 years
Temperament: Energetic, alert, brave, friendly
Hypoallergenic: No
Origin Country: United Kingdom
Characteristics of the Wire Fox Terrier
These are very smart, personable dogs. Wire fox terriers make good pets, but they require positive reinforcement training and socialization to rein in their high prey drive and exuberance. Otherwise, they can get bored and then unruly.
They're small and hardy, which equips them for playtime with the kids, especially when that involves running around a yard or park. But their prey drive could cause them to chase after smaller pets or animals.
History of the Wire Fox Terrier
As their name suggests, the wire fox terrier was originally bred to hunt foxes and excelled at the job in the 18th century. The small, tough terriers were tasked with flushing foxes from their dens, allowing other dogs and horsemen to give chase.
Wire fox terriers likely originated from black-and-tan terriers that were found in Wales.
Initially this breed and the smooth fox terrier were classified as the same breed with different coat varieties, but in 1985 they were separated into two distinct breeds by the American Kennel Club.
In more recent history, the wire fox terrier has shined at the country's most famous dog show. The breed has won 15 best in show titles. No other breed has won more than eight times.
Wire Fox Terrier Care
Owning a wire fox terrier is a commitment. You'll need to spend time making sure your energetic dog gets enough exercise and that they're properly groomed. Training is also a must so you can contain their wilder impulses.
Exercise
Exercise is a big deal to wire fox terriers. This breed was bred to run and chase so they are, ahem, wired for activity. You'll need a yard to play in or regular walks and runs to provide a wire fox terrier with adequate mental and physical exercise. Plan on at least an hour of exercise each day to keep your wire fox terrier satisfied.
Grooming
If you want to achieve the wire fox terrier's classic look, you'll need to clip and trim some of your dog's outer layer of wiry hair.
You may opt against trimming, but you'll still need to brush and comb your wire fox terrier's soft undercoat and a bristly outer layer every other day. A few times a year, you dog will require some additional fur stripping.
The fur isn't all. Like all dogs, wire fox terriers should have their teeth brushed daily along with regular ear cleanings and nail trims.
Training
The wire fox terrier's driven nature needs to be harnessed, so training at an early age is ideal. Obedience classes along with regular socialization can help a wire fox terrier be a polite member of the family. Wire fox terriers are quick learners and will enjoy the mental stimulation and structure that training offers.
They do tend to bark, so training could help keep your neighbors happy.
Common Health Problems
No dog breed is without potential health problems, but wire fox terriers are more likely to inherit or develop specific issues like:
- Luxating patellas
- Wobbler syndrome
- Heart diseases
- Eye diseases
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Skin issues
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Periodontal disease
Yearly checkups with your veterinarian can help keep your wire fox terrier healthy and catch any underlying issues before they become a major problem. Once your dog is over the age of 7 or 8, twice yearly check-ups should occur.
Diet and Nutrition
Like all dogs, wire fox terriers should eat a nutritionally complete diet formulated for dogs by veterinary nutritionists. The major dog food brands will usually meet this criteria.
Two meals a day regulates your dog's blood sugar, but be sure to measure out the appropriate amount of food based on your dog's weight, age, activity, and caloric content of the food you are feeding. Wire fox terriers have a fast metabolism and small mouths, so foods formulated for high energy, small breeds are ideal.
If you aren't sure what to feed your wire fox terrier, ask your veterinarian for recommendations. Some dogs will require specific diets if they have certain types of health concerns.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Wire Fox Terrier
The most likely place you'll find a wire fox terrier is from a breeder that specializes in this breed. When purchasing a dog from a breeder, be sure to ask to see the parents and where the dogs live. You don't want to buy from a puppy mill.
The American Fox Terrier Club is a good place to find a reputable breeder if you aren't sure where to start. Expect to pay around $1,500 or more for a quality puppy. It is unlikely that you'll find a wire fox terrier at most shelters, but there are breed specific rescues if you are looking to adopt instead of purchase a dog.
Wire Fox Terrier Overview
Highly intelligent and quick learners
Comical personalities
Loves to play
Is a vocal dog
Requires a lot of exercise
May not do well with other small animals
More Dog Breeds and Further Research
If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:
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What’s the difference between a wire fox terrier vs. a smooth fox terrier?
Their hair coat is the only difference between the two breeds. Until 1985, wire and smooth fox terriers were considered part of the same breed.
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Are wire fox terriers good family dogs?
With proper training and socialization, wire fox terriers can make good family dogs. They also require at least an hour of exercise per day.
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Are wire fox terriers good apartment dogs?
Wire fox terriers are not good apartment dogs unless they also have daily access to a large play space and their vocal nature is tolerated by neighbors.