Wire Fox Terrier — breed guide

At a glance

Group

terrier

Size

Small

Weight

7–9 kg (15–20 lb)

Life span

12–15 years

Coat

Dense, wiry and crisp

Living with a Wire Fox Terrier

• Very high energy — built for work and long days out.
• Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
• Barely sheds.
• Trainable with consistency.
• Barks readily.
• Good with children.
• Not always easy with other dogs — introduce carefully.
• Not a safe bet with cats — this is prey drive rather than a training problem.
• Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
• Better with previous experience behind you.
• Average heat tolerance.
• Average cold tolerance.

Temperament

Bold · Comic · Alert · Independent

Health to watch

• Luxating patella
• Lens luxation
• Deafness

Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.

Questions people ask

Is a Wire Fox Terrier good with kids?

Generally yes. Wire Fox Terriers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.

Is a Wire Fox Terrier good with cats?

Usually not. This is prey drive rather than a training problem — a cat that runs can trigger it in a dog that is otherwise impeccably behaved.

How much exercise does a Wire Fox Terrier need?

Hours — this breed needs a job or a long day out.

Can a Wire Fox Terrier handle hot weather?

About average — use normal hot-day sense.