Temperament: The Wire Fox Terrier is fearless, daring and cheerful. This dog is affectionate and good with children. They will show great loyalty to the family and love the company of their family. This dog should not be trusted with non-canine pets as it has such a high hunting instinct. They will love to go exploring and really need a good enclosed garden to be kept in the lead when they go for a walk.
This dog needs good socialization, when it is young, which will help a lot for the dog to mix and get along with other dogs. This is a dog with good intelligence and can be taught to perform tricks. It can be a dominant dog with high energy levels. If this is not released with a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, they can become stressed. This dog needs both full walks and mental energy to use it on a daily basis.
This dog needs a firm 100% consistent owner who has good leadership qualities to allow this dog to not take on the role and develop small dog syndrome. If they contract small dog syndrome, they will have behavior problems such as dominance, guarding objects, excessive jealousy and barking along with separation anxiety. This does not have to happen, and the owner can solve it by complying with the natural instincts of the dog and becoming stable, firm and, above all, consistent with the firm rules to follow. This dog really needs good daily walks as they burn energy helping the dog to be calm.
Health Issues – Epilepsy is fairly common in the Wire Fox Terrier and there are some minor concerns, so check with the breeder.
Grooming: For the wire fox terrier, a good weekly brushing is all that is required, if it is just a pet dog. If you want to show the dog, more care is needed. Strip the dogs of their fur several times a year, but there is a complicated routine of caring for the show.
Living Conditions: The Wire Fox Terrier will do well in an apartment if it is given the right amount of exercise per day.