Are Wire Fox Terriers For You?

Wire Fox Terriers are one of the oldest breeds, originating in Great Britain early in the 18th century.  Originally they were bred and trained to go to ground and ‘bolt’ a fox from its den or hiding place by barking and lunging at it with ferocity- until the fox finally fled.  As such, this breed had to be small enough to get into a fox's hole, but long-legged enough to keep up with fox hounds.  Its coat needed the hard, wiry texture to protect it from dense underbrush.  The predominately white coloring was preferred so that it could be easily be distinguished from the fox.  And of course, it had to be fearless and aggressive to challenge and overwhelm its prey.   As you learn more about this breed, you will hear certain words used to describe them over and over…vivacious, audacious, bossy, ingenious, scrappy, independent, stubborn, impulsive, intense, hysterical, affectionate, optimistic, fickle, restless and irrepressible- to name a few!   Extremely intelligent, loving and loyal, they make great family pets as well as magnificent show dogs- but they are not the dog for everyone.  Always eager to please, they can be patient, protective and extraordinarily playful.  They love kids and are very protective of their family.  However, families with small children do need to realize that generally Wires have zero tolerance for their tails, ears and feet being pulled and they do not take kindly to being teased.  The Wire Fox Terrier is one of the more dog-aggressive breeds with a pronounced tendency to pick fights with other canines, not caring if the chosen opponent is four times its size.      They have strong tendencies to chase and seize small fleeing creatures-- with ferocity.  This inborn trait should be seriously considered if you own a cat or other small animal.   Wire Fox Terriers are clever escape artists and can go over or under fences if the spirit moves them to do so.  They often pay little heed to their owner’s frantic calls to come back, not wanting to relinquish their instinctive quest for adventure.  It is for this reason the Wire Fox Terrier should not be trusted out of a safe enclosure or off a lead.     Wires need exercise daily. They must have regular opportunities to vent their energy and to use their busy minds to do interesting things.  They will do much to exercise themselves given the room, but they profit from a good walk on leash, a vigorous play session, or an off-lead outing in a safe area.  They love to play fetch and are great Frisbee players.   For your sake, as well as the puppy's, make absolutely certain you're a Terrier person before you bring home your little bundle of joy.  Study the characteristics of the breed carefully- talk to reputable breeders.  Be open to the negative aspects as well as the positive of having a Wire in your home.    Then, if you’re certain a Wire is the dog for you- get ready to lose your heart.   .