Fox Terrier Wire
The Wire Fox Terrier shares the same origins as the Smooth Fox Terrier, and they both share the same standard, save for the coat type. Although the Fox Terrier is said to have existed in hunt kennels since the 1700's, because few records were kept until the 1860's, its exact ancestry is unknown. Educated guesses suggest that basic terrier stock in England was crossed with the Bulldog, the smooth-coated Black and Tan, the Greyhound and the Beagle. Once the smooth-coated variety was established, it may have been crossed with the rough-coated Black and Tan to produce the wire-haired variety. The Fox Terrier's name says it all: this breed was the most popular when it came to fox hunting. The small and compact yet strong and speedy body allowed it to follow its prey anywhere. Today, although they do maintain some hunting instincts, this breed is best known for its companionship in either the city or country. It needs daily exercise.
Height: Males preferably measure 15.5" (39 cm) or less; females should stand slightly shorter.
Weight: 18 lbs (8 kg) for dogs, 16 lbs (7.1 kg) for bitches
Coat Type: The Wire Fox Terrier's coat should be dense, hard and wiry. The hair is curly, but never woolly. The coat is predominantly white with black or brown splash marks. Regular stripping of dead hair can be done by hand to maintain the correct texture, or with machine clippers to maintain shape. However, you can let the coat be natural, and your dog will look like this photo, called the casual coat:
Temperament: This courageous, watchful breed is also extremely affectionate, playful and lively. He loves to participate in fun of all kinds. The Wire Fox Terrier is a little sharper than the Smooth.
Health Problems: Epilepsy is highly suspected to have a genetic component in this breed. Deafness may be a problem in predominantly white dogs.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 4 - Terriers
CKC: Group 4 - Terriers
KC: Sporting - Terrier Group
FCI: Group 3
ANKC: Group 2 - Terriers
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