Wire Fox Terrier
Also known as: Wire Fox, WFT
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
18 lbs
Height (Male)
15.5 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Wire Fox Terrier is a spirited, elegant breed that holds the record for most Best in Show wins at Westminster. With their wiry coat and alert expression, they are classic terriers—bold, energetic, and entertaining.
History
Developed in England for fox hunting alongside the Smooth Fox Terrier. The wiry coat provided better protection in brush and brambles. The most successful breed in Westminster show history. AKC recognized in 1885.
Appearance
A balanced, elegant terrier with a dense, wiry coat. Predominantly white with colored markings. V-shaped ears, dark eyes, and an intensely alert expression. Athletic build with a short back and long head.
Temperament
Bold, alert, and quick. Wire Fox Terriers are quintessential terriers—energetic, intelligent, and always ready for action. They are spirited companions with a zest for life.
Personality Around Others
Friendly with people. Can be intense with other dogs. High prey drive. Love activity and play. Alert and curious.
Exercise Needs
High exercise needs. Daily vigorous activity. Love running, playing, and exploring. Need mental stimulation.
Training
Intelligent but independent. Creative, positive training. Can be stubborn. Consistent boundaries needed.
Grooming
Wiry coat needs hand-stripping 3-4 times yearly. Regular brushing. Professional grooming recommended.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Generally healthy. Joint and eye issues are the main concerns. Regular screening recommended.
Recommended Health Tests
- Patellar Evaluation
- BAER Test
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$600-$1,200
Nutrition
Quality food for active small breeds. Two meals daily. High-energy dogs need good nutrition.
Living Environment
Can adapt to apartments with exercise. Need secure fencing. Escape-proof yards essential.
Ideal Family
Active, experienced owners. Those who enjoy grooming. Dog sport enthusiasts.
Intelligence
Very intelligent and quick-witted. Excellent problem-solvers. Can outthink novice owners.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Vocal breed. Alert to everything. Training can moderate but they stay watchful.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Very low shedding with proper grooming. Hand-stripping essential for coat health.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
Holds the record for most Best in Show wins at Westminster—15 times
Asta from The Thin Man movies was a Wire Fox Terrier
One of the most successful show dogs in history
Charles Darwin owned a Wire Fox Terrier named Polly
Snowy from Tintin is depicted as a Wire Fox Terrier
Famous Dogs
Asta
The Wire Fox Terrier who starred alongside William Powell and Myrna Loy in The Thin Man films
Snowy (Milou)
Tintin's faithful companion in Hergé's beloved comic series
Polly
Charles Darwin's beloved Wire Fox Terrier
Common Myths
"They're the same as Smooth Fox Terriers"
Wire and Smooth Fox Terriers are separate breeds with different coat types and somewhat different temperaments
"Wire coats are hard to maintain"
While they need regular hand-stripping, the wiry coat actually repels dirt and stays cleaner than smooth coats
Frequently Asked Questions
Why have they won Westminster so often?
Their striking appearance, showy attitude, and elegant movement make them natural show dogs. They command attention in the ring.
What's hand-stripping?
A grooming technique where dead coat is plucked by hand to maintain texture and color. Essential for wire-coated breeds.
Puppy Guide
Wire Fox puppies are lively and bold. Start grooming routine early. Channel energy into training.
Senior Care
Senior Wire Fox Terriers remain alert. Joint care important. Moderate exercise. Continue grooming.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$14,000-$22,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Most decorated show breed
Low shedding
Elegant appearance
Athletic and agile
Entertaining companion
Cons
High energy
Needs regular grooming
Can be barky
Prey drive
Can be dog-aggressive