Overview
The Wire Fox Terrier is a sturdy, balanced small terrier with a rough, broken coat and an alert, eager expression. It was developed in England for fox hunting and has kept its quick mind and boundless energy.
It is a bright, entertaining companion for active owners who enjoy a busy dog, but it needs plenty of stimulation and a firm hand.
History
The breed was shaped in England by fox hunters who wanted a bold dog that could follow a fox underground and drive it out. It is thought to descend from a rough-coated black-and-tan working terrier of Wales, Derbyshire and Durham, and it was developed separately from the Smooth Fox Terrier.
It became a popular family dog in the 1930s, when Asta in the Thin Man films made it a star. It has also won more Best in Show titles at Westminster than any other breed. Snowy from Tintin is a Wire Fox Terrier too.
Appearance
A compact, square, well-balanced terrier no taller than about 39 cm at the withers, with a flat skull, a strong muzzle and small folded ears. The harsh, wiry coat is dense and broken, and the tail is carried high. Males weigh about 7.7 to 8.6 kg and females slightly less.
Temperament
Energetic, clever and quick to react, the Wire Fox Terrier has a low boredom threshold and wants company and something to do. It is friendly and playful with its family, but independent and strongly driven to chase. It may challenge other animals and can be hard to call off a scent.
Care and exercise
Give it daily exercise and mental work, and keep it on a lead or in secure fencing, since it will chase small animals. Training should be consistent and reward-based.
Show dogs are hand-stripped to keep colour and texture. Pet dogs are often clipped every month or so, which softens the coat and dulls the colour but is easier to maintain.
Health
A 2024 UK study put life expectancy at around 13.5 years, which is better than the average for purebred dogs. As with many terriers, regular dental care and routine veterinary checks are sensible.
