Fox Terrier (Wire) Dog Breed Information
-
-
above 15 years
-
-
Extravagant *
-
-
Star
Superstar
-
-
Rare
Easy to get
Introduction
One of the most feisty, mischievous, energetic and buoyant dog breeds in existence, Fox Terriers are a delightful breed of dogs. Wire Fox terriers or Foxies as they are popularly known as are handsome, happy and stylish with a high spunk that makes them highly inquisitive with a “whoever may care” attitude. Wire Fox Terriers are one of the happiest breeds in the entire canine world, and that happiness and joy of life is reflected in their eyes. Wire Fox Terriers derive their name from their coat and their beard. Though blessed with a good temperament, their feisty nature may not make them excellent pets for first time owners or families with small children. Some of the famous celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor, Rudyard Kipling, Cary Grant, William Holden, Bette Davis, Van Gogh have been the proud owners of Wire Fox Terriers. The high spunk of a Wire Fox terrier is not only restricted to them being pets but also makes them excellent show dogs. Fox Terriers are known to have won the title of Best in Show 13 times, the highest number for any dog breed. If you are a proud owner of this happy breed or if you are planning to get a Wire Fox terrier as a family pet, you are making an exciting decision. We bring to you all the aspects that you will have to keep in mind before getting a Wire Terrier so that you are able to provide an environment that develops a healthy dog and a long lasting companionship.
History
Wire Fox terriers have a rich ancestry behind them. When fox hunting became a popular sport in England, the hunters wanted a breed that could enter fox dens and charge the fox out of their hiding places, and so the Wire Fox terriers were bred. While the breeders were not able to keep a record of the breeds, Wire Fox terriers are considered to be a blend of black & tan Terrier, Dachshund, English Hound, Beagle and a Foxhound. The first Fox Terrier to be recognised by the American Kennel Club was in 1885 but it was only in 1985 that the Smooth and Wire Fox terriers were recognised as two separate dog breeds. A Wire Fox terrier gained popularity when it starred as Asta in the William Powel, Myrna Loy starrer The Thin Man series. Since then, a number of movies have had Wire Fox Terriers as their canine actors. Another popular portrayal of a Wire Fox terrier has been TinTin’s snowy.
Unique Aspects
One of the most unique aspects of a Wire Fox Terrier is it’s tail. Unlike other dogs, the tail of a Wire Fox terrier does not wag but quivers. The tail of a Wire Fox terrier is straight and strong enough to pull them out of trouble. Another unique aspect of a Wire Fox terrier is the wired coat. Since the coat is wired, it does not shed much and has to be plucked while grooming. For first time pet parents to a wired Fox terrier, the help of a groomer will be required. The third unique aspect of a wire fox terrier is it’s high energy levels and inquisitiveness. A wire fox terrier is extremely alert and will react to the smallest of the noise making them excellent guard dogs. The fourth unique aspect of a Wire fox terrier is the long rectangular muzzle with a wiry beard on the chin.
Fun Trivia
This bearded and feisty breed rose to fame with Asta, a Wire Fox Terrier that made a debut in the Hollywood around the 40s and the 50s. This breed starred in movies like the ‘The Thin Man’, ‘Awful Truth’ and ‘Bringing a Baby’. Since then they have been features in various movies and are a faithful companions to some celebrity.
Movie Character
This energetic breed has featured in an episode of Hercule Poirot; this little breed has been the faithful companion of Tintin and has been on many adventures, he was named Snowy. In addition it featured in the Snoppy movie Moonrise Kingdom. Doger the mutt in the Oliver & Company was also a Wire Fox Terrier.
Celebrity Wire Fox Terrier owners
This Show ring winner is a pet to many Dog Show enthusiasts and still has not caught the fancy of the celebrity world. One of the reasons that a resident of the White House in the reign of Calvin Coolidge has not found many takers in the celebrity world is because of their maintenance. The list at the moment features Ellen Terry. Though in the yesteryear it included Queen Victoria and King Edward VII
Vital Stats:
Dog Breed Group: Terrier Dogs
Height: 16-20 Inches
Weight: 6-9 Kg
Life Span: Above 15 years
Pros
- Small size make them perfect for small spaces
- One of the best Show Dogs around
- Abundant energy and adorable to look at
Cons
- Grooming requires a lot of patience and practice
- Not ideal choice for houses with small kids
- Does not get trained easily