Wire Fox Terrier

The black markings on wire fox terrier puppies’ faces eventually turn brown and then tan, settling by about 2 months; the only permanent black is on their backs. Compared to other breeds, newborn puppies of this breed have rather long faces.

These dogs were originally bred for foxhunting, tracking their quarry, sniffing out their burrows, and killing it. Later, they were trained to drive the foxes out their burrows for hunters to kill.

The breed has a long history, but its exact origin is uncertain. Only in the 18^th century were they called fox terriers. Their coat color resembled that of foxes, so the current colors were developed to prevent mistaken identity.

These feisty, impulsive dogs track and catch quarry instinctively. One owner says, “A Scottish terrier takes action after the quarry approaches, but a fox terrier just runs as soon as he sees moving objects in the distance.” They need a lot of exercise, but they must be trained carefully so that they do not endanger themselves in traffic. Also, their tendency to bark makes them good guard dogs, but they should be trained not to bark unnecessarily.

Frequent brushing and combing are necessary.

Origin : United Kingdom
Size : (male) Height 16 inches or less ; weight 15-20 pounds
(female) Height 14 inches or less ; weight 13-18 pounds
Coat : Wiry, undercoat is soft and dense; Color is predominantly white, with black and tan markings, liver, and red markings are undesirable.