Pet Wiki

Wire Fox Terrier

Also called Fox Terrier (Wire), Wire Hair Fox Terrier, Wirehaired Terrier

Recognised breedFCI group 3Short profile

From England, bred by fox-hunting enthusiasts from rough-coated working terriers.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male7.7 to 8.6 kg12
Weight, female6.8 to 7.7 kg12
Height (males)up to 39 cm21
Lifespan12 to 13.5 years31
Sizesmall

FCI gives an ideal show weight of about 8.25 kg for males, bitches slightly less; range from Wikipedia.

RKC says typically over 12 years; a 2024 UK study cited by Wikipedia found an average of 13.5 years.

friendly and outgoing
fearless and bold
alert and quick-moving
23

Coat and looks how to spot one

dense wiry broken coat with soft undercoat

A lively, compact terrier with a short back and a lot of strength packed into a small frame, standing like a little hunter. Its coat is thick and wiry, shorter on the shoulders and longer over the back and hindquarters, with a softer layer underneath; it is kept in shape by hand-trimming.23

Colourswhite with black markingswhite with black and tan markingswhite with tan markings21

Personality what they are like

Bright, keen and always ready for the next thing, the Wire Fox Terrier is sociable and open with people, confident in new situations and full of classic terrier spirit and determination.234

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Up to about an hour of exercise a day, plus play to keep its busy mind occupied.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The wiry coat needs attention more than once a week, and regular trimming or hand-stripping keeps its classic outline.3

Home where they are happiest

Adapts to town or country life and manages with a small to medium garden.3

Company who they like around

A people-loving dog that enjoys being part of family activity.23

The story where it all began

Wire Fox Terriers come from the working terriers that ran with English fox hunts, where rough and smooth coats were once mixed. From the 1870s wires were shown in their own classes and bred apart from the smooths, and by the early 1900s they had become the more popular of the two. Films in the 1930s made the breed a well-known family pet.31

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Wire Fox Terriers have won Best in Show at Westminster more times than any other breed, 15 wins as of 2019.1

  2. 2

    Asta from The Thin Man films, Snowy from The Adventures of Tintin and Dogmatix from Asterix are all Wire Fox Terriers.1

  3. 3

    One dog, Matford Vic, won Westminster Best in Show two years running, in 1915 and 1916.1

  4. 4

    In post-war Britain, wheeled toy Wire Fox Terriers were a popular push-along toy for toddlers.3

  5. 5

    The AKC standard describes the breed as always on the tip of its toes, expecting something to happen.4

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed was developed in England for fox hunting, where terriers were needed to 'go to ground' and bolt the fox. The name 'Fox Terrier' reflects this original purpose.5

Famous ones stars of the breed

Name ideas for your new friend

ScampRustyPipTrixieDashSprocketFernBrambleWicketMidgeQuillGizmo

A day in the life told by a Wire Fox Terrier

I wake with a wriggle, today smells like adventure. I patrol the garden, nose to the ground, tail a stiff flag. A squirrel chatters from the fence; I give a sharp bark, just to say hello. My human calls, and we set off for the lane. I track every scent: rabbit, fox, yesterday’s postman. We stop at the café, and I charm a stranger with a paw. At home, I dig a hole for a buried bone, just in case. Evening, I curl on the rug, one eye open, ready for the next thing. Life is a series of thrilling moments.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Fox Terrier (Wire), standard no. 169, Group 3 Terriers, Section 1 Large and medium-sized Terriers; standard published 26.03.2009.2
The Royal Kennel Club
Terrier Group, listed as Fox Terrier (Wire); not a vulnerable native breed.3
AKC
Listed as Wire Fox Terrier; kept today as a companion and show dog.4

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Wire Fox Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Wire Fox Terrier, and at what times?

Feed your adult Wire Fox Terrier at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each day. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Check the food label for amounts and ask your vet for a schedule that suits your dog.27 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Wire Fox Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a safe diet.28 Pet Wiki plan

How often should I bathe a Wire Fox Terrier?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath about every eight weeks, or as needed if your dog gets dirty. Over-bathing can dry the skin, so follow your vet's advice for your dog's coat condition.39 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Wire Fox Terrier need brushing?

Brush your Wire Fox Terrier at least once a week to keep its wiry coat tidy and remove loose hair. More frequent brushing helps prevent mats and keeps the coat in good condition.39 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Wire Fox Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding. Ask your vet or a groomer to show you the proper technique.39 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Wire Fox Terrier need?

Your Wire Fox Terrier needs up to an hour of exercise daily, plus playtime to keep its busy mind engaged. This bright, energetic dog thrives on walks, games, and activities that challenge it.3 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Wire Fox Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth daily with a pet-safe toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness. Never push anything into the ear canal; ask your vet for proper cleaning methods.9 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Wire Fox Terrier live?

A Wire Fox Terrier typically lives between 12 and 13.5 years, with proper care and regular vet check-ups. Senior years usually begin around age 10, so adjust care as needed.31 Pet Wiki plan

Is a Wire Fox Terrier good with children and other pets?

This sociable, people-loving dog is generally good with children and enjoys family life. Its terrier spirit means early socialization is important, especially with other pets. Ask a good breeder for guidance.234

Can a Wire Fox Terrier be left alone?

Wire Fox Terriers are people-oriented and may struggle with long periods alone. They adapt best when part of family activities, so consider your schedule. For specific advice, consult a good breeder or trainer.23

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Wire Fox Terrier - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, origin, weight, lifespan study, fun facts
  2. FCI Standard No. 169 Fox Terrier (Wire) fci.beused for recognition, size, weight, coat, colour, temperament
  3. The Royal Kennel Club - Fox Terrier (Wire) royalkennelclub.comused for exercise, grooming, lifespan, history, habitat, fun fact
  4. AKC - Wire Fox Terrier akc.orgused for recognition, temperament, fun fact
  5. ukcdogs.com ukcdogs.com
  6. petmd.com petmd.com
  7. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  9. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.