GROUP 2 - TERRIERS

Brief History

The gentry and working class alike owned Fox Terriers. During the hunt, when the fox went to ground, Fox Terriers (which were carried in saddlebags on the horses) were sent in after the fox. They chased the fox out of its lair so the hunt could recommence. They did not kill the fox, or the hunt would be unable to continue. The working class also bred these dogs to keep vermin down, a job they excel at and which also provided much sport. They have retained this hunting instinct. There is debate as to whether the Wire and Smooth Fox Terrier evolved separately. In 1876 the first Wire was imported into Australia from England.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 14 years. Some live much longer.

Temperament
Gay, fearless, a clown, a devoted friend.

Always full of fun and energy, Fox Terrier Wires need to learn their place in the family hierarchy and should be supervised with young children. They will enjoy playing with children aged five and above. They are fearless and will not back down if threatened. As keen hunters, living with guinea pigs, rabbits and chickens could be a challenge, unless they are well fenced. Repetitious obedience lessons will not be of interest to a Wire, but they will be in their element with tricks and games.

General Breed Description
Fox Terrier Wires are predominantly white with black, black and tan or tan markings. They have two ‘’looks’’ that are very different. The trimmed Wire appears as an aristocrat, a perfect model of balance. Square in proportion, they have striking, aristocratic, long, narrow heads dressed by beards and V shaped folded ears. Their tail is set at 12 o’clock. The untrimmed Wire is a square Teddy Bear! Do not let the Teddy Bear deceive you. The Fox Terrier Wire decidedly has a mind of its’ own.

Coat and Care Requirements
The Wire has a dense, wiry coat that does not shed if it is hand stripped or clipped 2 or 3 times a year. They do need regular combing and bathing, as white dogs do show the dirt. A Fox Terrier Wire requires a lot of company, plenty of exercise and time for relaxation.  When walking your dog, always have it on a lead. Wires can be very single-minded when they see something of interest, perhaps across the road, often with disastrous consequences. You must have a secure yard.

Size
Height: Males 39cms (15.5ins), Females slightly less.

Weight; Males: 8kgs, Females slightly less.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed health issues and what health testing the breeder does.

Suitability
A well-trained Fox Terrier Wire is a marvelous friend, watchdog and family dog. His intelligence is amazing and his sense of humour is delightful. They can be taught tricks and relish having a job to do. They will join in ball games, catch Frisbees and go skate boarding. As with all dogs, young children and pets should always be supervised when together.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard:  

https://dogsaustralia.org.au/members/breeds/breed-standards/Fox-Terrier-(Wire)