Wire Fox Terrier

also known as Wire Fox Terrier, Foxie, Wirehaired Terrier, Wire Hair Fox Terrier

Pros Summary


The Wire Fox Terrier is a small dog breed that originated in England. They were originally bred as hunting dogs for small game such as foxes and rats. The breed was first recognized by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1876. It is also recognized by other kennel clubs and organizations such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). Wire Fox Terriers are known for their highly energetic, curious and independent personalities. They make great family pets, but they require regular exercise and consistent training. They are also known for their wiry coat which requires regular grooming. The name "Wire Fox Terrier" comes from the breed's wirehaired coat and its origins as a fox hunting dog.

Breed Information


Type

Is Wire Fox Terrier a purebred?

Purebred

Pronunciation

How do you pronounce the Wire Fox Terrier name? How do you say Wire Fox Terriers?

wy'ur fahks TAIR-ee-uhr

Purpose

What were Wire Fox Terriers originally used for?

vermin hunting, fox bolting

Lifespan

How Long Do Wire Fox Terriers Live? What is average life expectancy for a Wire Fox Terrier? How long can Wire Fox Terriers live?

13-14 years

The average Wire Fox Terrier lifespan is somewhere between 13-14 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Wire Fox Terrier Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Wire Fox Terrier?

What is the average height of a Wire Fox Terrier? How big is a Purebred Wire Fox Terrier height? Wire Fox Terrier dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 13-15 inches (33 - 38.1 cm) 10.0 inches (25.4 cm) 13.0 inches (33 cm) 14.0 inches (35.6 cm)
Female 12-15 inches (30.5 - 38.1 cm) 9.0 inches (22.9 cm) 12.5 inches (31.8 cm) 13.5 inches (34.3 cm)
What is the average weight of a Wire Fox Terrier? How much should Wire Fox Terriers weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 17-19 pounds (8 - 9 kg) 12.0 pounds (5 kg) 15.5 pounds (7 kg) 18.0 pounds (8 kg)
Female 15-17 pounds (7 - 8 kg) 10.0 pounds (5 kg) 14.0 pounds (6 kg) 16.0 pounds (7 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Wire Fox Terriers get fat easily?

The Wire Fox Terrier is a dog breed that has a low to average risk for obesity. This means that they are less likely to gain weight than some breeds, but it is still important to monitor their food intake and ensure they get enough exercise to maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being.

Hypoallergenic

Are Wire Fox Terriers Hypoallergenic?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Wire Fox Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What is a Wire Fox Terrier personality? What are Wire Fox Terrier dogs best known for?

Alert
Fearless
Keen
Intelligent
Bold
Friendly
Quick

Shedding Level

Are Wire Fox Terriers heavy shedders? How Much Does a Wire Fox Terrier Shed?

Wire Fox Terrier will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Wire Fox Terrier dog?

The Wire Fox Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Wire Fox Terriers come from?

England

Ancestry

What are Wire Fox Terriers descended from?

rough-coated black and tan terrier

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Wire Fox Terrier breed?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were Wire Fox Terriers first bred? How old is the Wire Fox Terrier breed?

1800s

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Wire Fox Terrier?

Terrier (AKC:1885 & UKC)

Wire Fox Terrier Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Wire Fox Terrier eyes?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Wire Fox Terrier nose be naturally?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Wire Fox Terrier coat be naturally?

Black
Red
Silver
White
Brindle

Coat Length

How long is a Wire Fox Terriers coat?

The coat of a Wire Fox Terrier falls in the medium length category.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Wire Fox Terrier Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Wire Fox Terrier?

Wiry

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Wire Fox Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can a Wire Fox Terrier have in her first litter?

13-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Wire Fox Terrier can have a litter of 13-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Wire Fox Terriers are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Wire Fox Terrier Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Wire Fox Terriers have a lot of health problems?

The Wire Fox Terrier is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Wire Fox Terriers?

Distichiasis
Cataracts
Lens Luxation
Shoulder Dislocation
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Occasional Diagnoses

Patellar Luxation
Deafness

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Wire Fox Terrier breed?

Eye
Hearing
Skeletal
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Wire Fox Terrier Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Wire Fox Terriers have a lot of energy?

Wire Fox Terriers are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Do Wire Fox Terriers need socialization? How social are Wire Fox Terriers?

Wire Fox Terrier have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Wire Fox Terriers get?

The Wire Fox Terrier needs a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Wire Fox Terrier have? Do Wire Fox Terriers sleep a lot?

Wire Fox Terriers are active dogs that don't require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Wire Fox Terrier drool a lot?

The Wire Fox Terrier is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Wire Fox Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Do Wire Fox Terriers exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Mouthiness

Are Wire Fox Terriers mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Wire Fox Terrier running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Wire Fox Terrier dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Wire Fox Terriers enjoy doing? How do I keep my Wire Fox Terrier busy?

Walking, Jumping, Jogging, Road trip, Walk, Run, Fetch

Activity Level

What is the energy level of a Wire Fox Terrier? How much energy does a Wire Fox Terrier have?

Medium

Wire Fox Terriers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should a Wire Fox Terrier walk each week? How many miles should a Wire Fox Terrier walk every week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Wire Fox Terrier, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much a Wire Fox Terrier should exercise a day? How much activity does a Wire Fox Terrier need?

45 minutes

In general most Wire Fox Terriers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Wire Fox Terrier?

The Wire Fox Terrier is a breed of dog that requires an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Wire Fox Terrier?

Weekly

Wire Fox Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Wire Fox Terriers?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does a Wire Fox Terrier eat?

2.6 cups

For an average 17-19 pound (8 - 9 kg) Wire Fox Terrier feed 2.6 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does a Wire Fox Terrier Cost Daily?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Wire Fox Terrier is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does a Wire Fox Terrier Cost Per Month?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Wire Fox Terrier is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Wire Fox Terrier Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Wire Fox Terrier?

Wire Fox Terriers has average obedience intelligence. But, they're also independent thinkers. The Wire Fox Terrier is a breed with an exceptionally high IQ and may get into mischief if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Wire Fox Terrier dog?

Wire Fox Terrier dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Are Wire Fox Terrier dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Wire Fox Terrier do well in apartments? Are Wire Fox Terriers good indoor dogs?

Wire Fox Terriers are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Are Wire Fox Terriers good with kids? Are Wire Fox Terriers good around children?

A Wire Fox Terriers typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans

Senior-friendly

Are Wire Fox Terriers good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Wire Fox Terriers good with cats? How friendly Wire Fox Terriers are toward cats?

Wire Fox Terriers are not cat friendly dogs.

Dog Friendly

Do Wire Fox Terrier dogs get along with other dogs? Are Wire Fox Terriers OK with other dogs?

Wire Fox Terriers are below average dog friendly dogs. Wire Fox Terrier dogs may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with,

Pet friendly

How do Wire Fox Terrier dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Wire Fox Terriers friendly with strangers?

Wire Fox Terriers are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish. Early socialisation is key.

Playfulness

Do Wire Fox Terriers like to play? Are Wire Fox Terriers playful?

Wire Fox Terriers are known to be highly playful dog. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting a slightly older Wire Fox Terrier for a mellower experience.

Trainability

Are Wire Fox Terrier easily trained?

Wire Fox Terrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Maintain a healthy weight
    The risk of Wire Fox Terriers becoming obese is generally low to average.
  • Hypoallergenic
    Those with allergies should be happy with a Wire Fox Terrier, as they have a low tendency to cause allergic reactions.
  • Minimal to no shedding
    Wire Fox Terrier shedding is usually minimal to none, making coat maintenance easy.
  • Good with children
    They are good with children and make great playmates.

Cons

  • Not suitable for office environment
    Wire Fox Terriers may find an office setting too stressful.
  • Not cat-friendly
    Cats and Wire Fox Terriers tend to not be a suitable pairing.
  • Barking
    Loudness is a common trait among Wire Fox Terriers.
  • High energy levels
    They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.