Wire Fox Terrier

Origin & history

The Wire Fox Terrier was developed in England during the 1800s to work alongside foxhound packs, going to ground to flush foxes that had run to earth. It is thought to descend largely from the old rough-coated black-and-tan terriers of the coal-mining counties, and it long shared a history with the Smooth Fox Terrier before the two were separated into distinct breeds. The hard, wiry coat was practical, shrugging off mud, brambles and the worst of the weather underground. From the late nineteenth century the breed became a show-ring star and a fashionable companion, and it has won more top awards at major shows than almost any other terrier. In Australia it is now uncommon as a pet but retains a loyal following among terrier and show people who value its history and sparkle.

Temperament

The Wire Fox Terrier is confident, animated and brave to the point of recklessness, with a strong independent streak and a real sense of fun. It attaches closely to its family and loves to be involved, often playing the clown for attention. It is usually good with children who can match its energy and treat it fairly, though its bounce and intensity can be much for very young kids. With strangers it is alert and outgoing and will bark readily, making a lively little watchdog. Other dogs can be a flashpoint, since the breed is bold and not always tactful, and small furry pets are simply not safe given the hunting drive. These terriers are clever and learn fast but bore quickly and will test boundaries, so training needs to be upbeat, varied and consistent. Plenty of exercise, a secure dig-proof yard and ongoing mental challenge are essential to keep one settled.

Appearance

A small to medium terrier of square, balanced outline, standing up to about 39 cm at the shoulder and weighing roughly 7 to 9 kg. The body is short-backed and well-muscled with a deep chest and an upright tail, traditionally docked but often left natural now. The famous head is long and flat-skulled with a strong muzzle, small dark deep-set eyes and small V-shaped ears folding forward, giving a keen, faintly comical expression. The coat is dense, hard and wiry, ideally so crisp it feels like coconut matting, and is predominantly white with black and tan markings, usually concentrated on the head and as patches over the body. The whole dog looks alert, taut and ready to go.

Suitability

A Wire Fox Terrier is happiest in a house with a securely fenced, dig-resistant yard and an active owner who enjoys training and play, though it can adapt to apartment life if given enough vigorous exercise and stimulation. The ready bark and high energy make it a handful for close-quarters living and a consideration for neighbours. It is workable for a first-time owner who genuinely understands terriers, but the combination of brains, drive and stubbornness can outwit the unprepared. It tolerates short spells alone but becomes noisy and destructive if left bored or lonely for long days. The wiry coat copes well with cool, wet weather; in the Australian heat provide shade, water and cooler-time exercise, and avoid leaving one on hot surfaces or shut in a hot space.

Health

Wire Fox Terriers are typically tough and long-lived, with many reaching 12 to 15 years. The eye condition primary lens luxation is the best-documented inherited problem in the breed; the lens slips out of position and, untreated, can cause glaucoma and loss of the eye, but there is a DNA test, so ask whether the parents have been tested. They are also predisposed to patellar luxation and to some skin allergies and atopic dermatitis. Less commonly, deafness and a few other inherited issues appear in certain lines. Buy from a breeder who DNA-tests for primary lens luxation, screens knees, is open about any skin or eye trouble in their dogs, and breeds for stable temperament. Routine eye checks through the dog's life, good dental care and a sensible diet all help keep one in top form.