Description

The Wirehaired Fox Terrier is dressed in a wiry white coat with black or brown markings. The breed has a flat, tapering, narrow skull, and ears that fold forward making "V" shaped flaps. The tail is normally docked to 1/4 its length and stands on top of the dog rather than hanging out behind. The Fox Terrier is blessed with many weapons of attack such as strong jaws, well-developed teeth, eagerness, physical strength, and above all, courage. It is a well-built, elegant dog, concentrating a lot of strength in a little space. The eyes are dark, small, deep-set and extremely lively. The neck is thick and muscular.

Origin

In developing the Terriers, we know today breeders crossed ancient Dachshunds, the English Hound, and later the Foxhound and Beagle. One of the oldest Terriers, the Fox Terrier was used in the 18th century to hunt foxes in England. Its job was to harass fox out of its hole. The dog would snap and growl and lunge at the hiding fox until it bolted. They were also very useful ratters. The Wire was bred for use in rough country, its coat being less vulnerable to damage than that of the as the same breed, although it has been separated in the United States since 1984. Some of the Fox Terrier's talents include: hunting, tracking, watchdogging, agility and performing tricks.

Temperament

The Wirehaired Fox Terrier is a bold and energetic Terrier. They are enthusiastically playful especially with children, but have been known to bite. They are affectionate with the family and do not hide their jealously. Cheerful and brave. They are ready to charge at all times. Scrappy and impulsive. This lovable dynamo is great at learning tricks. Amazing stories are told of the animal's loyalty and devotion. This dog enjoys being part of the family and will become destructive without enough exercise and attention. One of the most aggressive breeds, the Fox Terrier has a pronounced tendency to pick fights with other dogs, even large ones, and are not generally trustworthy with other pets. The Fox Terrier will also hunt and possibly kill other none K-9 animals, such as birds, if given the chance. Be careful, as the Fox Terrier has often bitten, and although they love to play, they should be watched with children. If the Fox Terrier is properly socialized and introduced they can get along just fine with other dogs in the family. Keep this breed properly leashed or in a completely enclosed area, because the Fox Terrier likes to go off and explore. Fox Terriers like to bark and make good watchdogs, although the high-pitched barking can be annoying and may cause problems with neighbors. They may be too boisterous for elderly owners. They are willful and need to be firmly obedience trained from an early age. Behavior problems may include dominance challenges, especially with meek owners; guarding objects, places and their own food from the owner, and excessive barking.

Height

Height: Dogs 14-16 inches (36-41 cm.) Bitches 13-15 inches (33-38

Weight

Weight: Dogs 15-20 pounds (7-9 kg.) Bitches 13-18 pounds (6-8 kg.)

Known Health Problems

Epilepsy is highly suspected to have a genetic component in this breed. Deafness may be a problem in predominantly white dogs. Some minor concerns are post nasal drip, lens luxation, distichiasis, cataracts, Legg-Perthes, and shoulder dislocation. Also prone to skin problems.

Conditions for Living

The Fox Terrier will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Exercise Requirments

yard, play can take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, it will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. If it is possible, they would love to run free in a safe area. Keep this dog on a leash if there are small animals around. The urge for these dogs to hunt is strong and they are likely to take off after cats and small dogs.

Life Expectancy

About 15 or more years.

Grooming

If your Wirehaired Fox Terrier will be a pet, you can get away with brushing it with a firm bristle brush and bathing only when necessary. To keep the coat looking its best, it must be stripped several times a year and more frequently for show dogs. There is a complex show-grooming routine. Professional groomers have quite a bag of tricks to keep the Wire looking its best for the show ring. The Wire shed little to no hair and are good for allergy sufferers.

Group

Terrier, AKC Terrier