The Wire Fox Terrier , 16 to 18 pounds of coiled
energy, is a sturdy, symmetrical, short-backed hunter with fire and
intelligence shining in its dark, round eyes. The predominantly white
coat is rough and wiry; the V-shaped ears are neatly folded forward, the
better to point up the face’s distinctive, and completely irresistible,
expression.
Wires are delightful pets for families looking for an upbeat, friendly
companion with loads of personality. As terriers, they possess the
typical independence and prey drive of this feisty canine clan. They are
smart and companionable; training can be a challenge but by no means
impossible. Excellent athletes, natural comedians, and charming
housemates, Wires are long-lived and low-shedding.
The Wire Fox Terrier breed standard says they should be “on the
tip-toe of expectation at the slightest provocation.”
Once a mainstay of traditional British foxhunts, today’s Wire is a
handsome and amusing companion and master show dog.
Confident, Alert, Gregarious
The Wire Fox Terrier should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether
commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s
supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s
age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting
overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level.
Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can
cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and
which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your
dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all
times.
Grooming a Wire Fox Terrier can require a vast difference of time and effort according to what you plan to do with your dog. If you will be showing him in conformation events, you will need to learn to hand-strip his coat or pay someone else regularly to do it for you. Pets, however, can be clippered into a trim similar to a show trim with much less effort. All Wire Foxes will require regular brushing to avoid matting, no matter how they are groomed. Nails should be trimmed monthly. Ears should be checked weekly, and any excess wax and debris should be removed to avoid ear infections.
Like most terriers, the Wire Fox requires a good bit of exercise. Long walks with his owner, chasing a tennis ball in the backyard, or playtime in a large, securely fenced area are all great ways to exercise your dog and keep him mentally and physically fit. Never allow your Wire Fox Terrier to run off lead, as he is likely to forget all training if he catches sight of a small animal he perceives as prey.
Training the Wire Fox Terrier requires consistency, patience, and a great sense of humor. Spunky and happy-go-lucky little dogs, Wires are very smart but are also somewhat independent and get bored easily, so training sessions must be kept fun and interesting. They react well to positive training methods and will shut down if treated harshly. Wires are wonderfully suited for participation in earthdog trials as well as other performance events that require agility, speed, and intelligence.
Wire Fox Terriers are healthy dogs generally, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as eye disorders (cataracts, primary lens luxation, and glaucoma), luxating patellas, elbow and hip dysplasia, and a neurological condition known as “wobbler’s gait.”
Learn more at AKC.org Website coded by Louise Boscardin