The Wirehaired Fox Terrier is a breed originating in England and bred for hunting, primarily foxes. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the breed is their thick, frizzy coat. In addition, they are cheerful and bold dogs, with great physical strength.
General details
Dogs of the breed are of medium size and balanced structure. The weight is approximately 8 kilograms, while the height is 39 centimeters. The life expectancy of this breed is 12 to 15 years. They belong to Group 3 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which groups Terriers.
Breed history in brief
The Wirehaired Fox Terrier has its origins in England during the late 18th century. Its main function was to hunt small game, specifically foxes. Due to its great skill and dexterity in this task, it soon became a highly valued hunting dog. However, they also won the hearts of the British royal family, who bred them as popular pets and presented them at dog shows.
As the breed's popularity grew, they began to be exported to other countries, including the United States, where they were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. Today, the Wirehaired Fox Terrier remains a well-known and admired breed throughout the world. They have appeared in several movies and television shows, which has further contributed to their popularity and fame.
Breed characteristics
The Wirehaired Fox Terrier is a dog of great physical strength, but without being heavy. As for its head, it has a flattened skull on top and medium-sized, dark eyes that reflect intelligence. The ears are small, V-shaped and fall forward folded and close to the cheeks. The tail is long and carried erect, without curling or curling.
The coat is dense and frizzy, especially on the limbs and jaw to appear strong. In the area of the ribs, back and hindquarters, the undercoat is short and softer. The main coloration of this breed is white, which may have black, fawn or a combination of both shades.
The Wirehaired Fox Terrier breed is energetic and intelligent. They are lively, self-confident and generally easy to train. This breed is also characterized by alertness and fearlessness, as well as being outgoing and affectionate with their owners and family. Overall, this breed is described as a loyal and playful companion with a bold and energetic personality.
Common health problems
The Wirehaired Fox Terrier is characterized by good health. However, they are prone to develop certain disorders or pathologies such as atopy, cataracts, cervical vertebral malformation or instability, glaucoma, idiopathic epilepsy, lens luxation, lissencephaly, megaesophagus, pulmonary stenosis and tetralogy of Fallot.
In addition to the aforementioned disorders, the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends a cardiac evaluation exam along with tests to assess diseases such as Van den Ende-Gupta syndrome or patellar luxation.
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