All Dog Breeds >>Temprament of Wire Fox Terrier
The Wire Fox Terrier has the trademark terrier temperament: energetic, fearless, playful, inquisitive, feisty, bossy, and boisterous. This is a very high-energy dog. At a minimum, they need an hour of exercise every day: running, jogging, swimming, etc. A short walk around the block will not keep a Wire happy. If he doesn't get enough exercise, he will eat your couch and dig craters in your vegetable garden. These are intelligent, trainable (though stubborn) dogs who excel at agility and flyball. They love to play outdoors and do best with a fenced yard, but be careful, because they are capable of digging under the fence to escape. Wires are not trustworthy off lead.
They love to run and they will run away. And once they are gone, they are gone. They have a high prey drive. They will chase cats, hamsters, chickens, and guinea pigs. They will chase squirrels, rabbits, and deer. They will chase bicycles and cars. Some Wires live peacefully with other animals, but many do not. They can be aggressive toward other dogs, especially those of the same sex. These are not "naturally well-behaved" dogs and early obedience training makes a significant difference in the life of a Wire.
They are often difficult to housetrain and they've been known to eat money (both figuratively and literally). They love to bark, and have an annoyingly high-pitched bark, which helps to make them the excellent watchdogs that they are. While they are rarely aggressive toward people, they are naturally protective of their home and family. They can be quite territorial. Some Wires do well with children and some do not. Some breeders will not let their Wires go to a home with very young children because if a toddler makes the Wire feel threatened, the Wire might snap or bite at the child. These are affectionate, devoted family dogs who will want to spend every moment with you.
They will want to sleep in your bed. This is a breed that requires a lot of attention. But when he gets it, he is a friendly, loyal, affectionate dog with a unique zest for life. Just be prepared. They seem to have a never-ending energy, and they remain this way well into their teen years, active indoors and out. The Wire Fox Terrier was bred for stamina. Were you?