Wire Fox Terrier for sale

They are alert, bold and lively dogs that usually bond very closely with their families. With proper socialization they are friendly yet reserved with strangers and can be quite vocal when something catches their attention. They tend to have a confident, sometimes stubborn streak, so clear boundaries from an early age are important.

They can be good companions for older, respectful children who enjoy an active dog. Their strong prey drive and terrier intensity mean they are often not reliable with small pets like rabbits or rodents, and some may be reactive toward unfamiliar dogs. Early socialization and careful introductions are essential, and many owners find supervision and management are needed around other animals.

This breed has very high energy for its size and typically needs at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity every day. Brisk walks, play sessions and mentally engaging games are important to prevent boredom related behavior such as digging, barking or destructive chewing. Many do well when they also have an outlet like agility, earthdog work or structured games of fetch.

They are intelligent and quick to learn but often have an independent terrier mindset, which can come across as stubborn. Short, varied sessions with positive reinforcement work best, along with consistent rules from all family members. Reliable recall and impulse control usually require extra patience because of their strong chase instinct.

Their harsh, dense coat is usually hand stripped to maintain correct texture and color, particularly for show or a classic look. Pet dogs are often clipped, which is easier to maintain but softens the coat and can change its appearance. They shed very little compared with many breeds, but regular brushing and periodic professional grooming are still needed to prevent mats and keep the coat tidy.

They are generally robust, but can be prone to issues such as lens luxation and some other eye diseases, allergies and skin problems, and occasionally orthopedic conditions like patellar luxation. A small number may develop genetic neurological conditions, so puppies should ideally come from health tested parents. Regular veterinary checkups and weight control help reduce risks throughout life.

They can adapt to apartment life if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met every single day. However, their tendency to bark at noises and their high activity level can be challenging in close quarters without good training and management. Access to safe outdoor areas and committed daily activity is more important than the size of the home itself.

Yes, the breed was developed to go to ground after foxes and that instinct remains strong in many individuals. It is common for them to chase cats, squirrels and other wildlife, so secure fencing and leashed walks are strongly recommended. Training can improve control, but it rarely removes the underlying chase drive entirely.

They are not inherently harder to housebreak than other small to medium breeds, but their energetic nature can make consistency more important. Crate training, a regular schedule and patient reinforcement usually work well. Indoors they can be busy and inquisitive, so many owners use management tools like baby gates to prevent mischief when unsupervised.

The typical lifespan is around 12 to 15 years, with some living longer when well cared for. Keeping them lean, providing daily exercise, maintaining dental and coat care, and scheduling routine veterinary exams all contribute to healthy aging. Monitoring vision, mobility and skin condition as they get older helps catch issues early.