Do Wire Fox Terriers Shed and What You Need to Know

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Posted Oct 31, 2024

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Black and White Long Coated Small Sized Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Black and White Long Coated Small Sized Dog

Wire Fox Terriers are known for their unique, wiry coats, but do they shed? The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. Wire Fox Terriers are a low-shedding breed, but they still require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Their coat is made up of a double layer, with a soft undercoat and a coarse, wiry outer coat. This unique combination can make them a great choice for people with allergies, as they shed very little.

Quick Facts

Wire Fox Terriers are medium-sized dogs, typically standing 13 to 15 inches tall and weighing 15 to 19 pounds.

Their wiry coat requires regular grooming, which can help reduce shedding.

Fox Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health conditions, such as allergies, ear infections, and hip dysplasia.

The Wire Fox Terrier is a distinct terrier breed, part of the terrier group, with roots in fox hunting.

Here's a quick rundown of some key facts about Wire Fox Terriers:

  • Origin: England, 18th century
  • Size: 13 to 15 inches tall and 15 to 19 pounds
  • Coat: Wiry coat that requires regular grooming
  • Temperament: Intelligent, active, playful, and independent
  • Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Wire Terrier Basics

Credit: youtube.com, Wire Fox Terrier Dog Breed Pros and Cons | Wire Fox Terrier Advantages and Disadvantages

Wire terriers have a double coat, a wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat.

Their outer coat dies and gets loosened over time, which is a natural process that would normally be brushed off during their work routine.

Wire terriers are considered non-shedding, but this doesn't mean they don't shed at all - it just means their sheddings are very minimal.

You can emulate the process of brushing off their dead coat by using hand-stripping or electric clippers.

Hand-stripping allows for new hair growth, which helps retain the rich vibrant colours of their coat.

For another approach, see: Wire Haired Rat Terrier

Care and Maintenance

Wire Fox Terriers require regular care to maintain their wiry coats and overall health. They need to be supervised at all times, just like a toddler, to prevent them from getting into trouble.

Wirehaired Fox Terriers have serious problems with their teeth, so brushing them at least three times a week is crucial. This will help prevent dental issues and keep their teeth clean.

Credit: youtube.com, How to Take Care of Your Fox Terrier? How long do fox terriers live? How big do fox terriers get?

To keep their coats looking their best, stripping is required twice a year. This involves removing loose and dead hairs to maintain the wiry appearance. Stripping can be a bit time-consuming, but it's essential for showing dogs.

Cleaning their ears is also a must, even as a puppy, to prevent infections. This should be done at least once a week. Don't worry if you're not sure how - it's easy once you get the hang of it.

A high-quality diet is essential for Wire Fox Terriers, and it's best to stick to a consistent diet rather than giving them people food. Feeding them regularly, but not overdoing it, is also important to maintain their energy levels.

Here's a quick rundown of the essential care tasks for Wire Fox Terriers:

  • Supervise them at all times
  • Brush their coat at least weekly
  • Strip their coat twice a year
  • Clean their ears weekly
  • Brush their teeth at least three times a week
  • Feed a high-quality diet
  • Exercise them regularly, but not too much

Cost and Lifestyle

Owning a wire fox terrier can be a costly affair, especially when it comes to grooming. They require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their fur, which can be time-consuming and may need to be done daily.

Credit: youtube.com, Wire Fox Terrier Breed Profile History - Price - Traits - Wire Fox Terrier Grooming Needs - Lifespan

Their high energy level also means they need a lot of exercise, which can add to their overall cost. According to our research, wire fox terriers need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day to stay happy and healthy.

However, the cost of owning a wire fox terrier can be offset by their relatively low maintenance living arrangements. They are adaptable to small living spaces and can thrive in apartments, making them a great choice for city dwellers.

A unique perspective: Miniature Wire Fox Terrier

Wire Terrier Cost

The Wire Fox Terrier's unique coat growth pattern has a significant impact on their overall maintenance cost. This breed sheds very little, which means less grooming and fewer hair-related expenses.

Their coat growth cycle takes about 6 to 8 weeks, during which time there's hardly any shedding at all. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies or who prefer a low-maintenance pet.

As the growth cycle comes to an end, the coat will fall out individually, but these dead hairs often stay in the follicles and only come off through external forces like rolling on the ground or grooming. This means less hair on the couch or floor to clean up.

The Wire Fox Terrier's low-shedding coat also reduces the need for frequent bathing and trimming, which can save owners money on grooming expenses.

Care and Lifestyle

Yorkshire Terrier Dog Outdoors
Credit: pexels.com, Yorkshire Terrier Dog Outdoors

Taking care of your Wire Fox Terrier's daily needs is crucial for her happiness and longevity. Brush her coat at least weekly, and twice a year stripping is also required for her wiry double coat.

Supervising your pet as you would a toddler is essential to keep her out of trouble. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary to prevent accidents.

Cleaning your dog's ears weekly, even as a puppy, is vital to prevent infections. This may seem daunting, but it's a simple habit to get into.

Exercise is also crucial for your Wire Fox Terrier's physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise will keep her mind and body active, preventing boredom and naughty behavior.

A high-quality diet is necessary for your dog's health and happiness. Feed a consistent diet appropriate for her age, and avoid giving her people food.

Here's a quick rundown of your Wire Fox Terrier's daily needs:

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Fox Terriers are non shedding?

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a non-shedding breed due to its smooth, hard, and dense coat. This unique coat characteristic makes them a great choice for those with allergies or who prefer low-maintenance grooming.

Do wire-haired terriers shed a lot?

Wirehaired dogs, including terriers, have a unique coat that doesn't shed much, making them a good choice for those with allergies. However, their wiry fur requires regular hand-stripping to maintain a healthy and well-groomed coat.

Jenny Koss

Writer

Jenny Koss is a seasoned writer with a passion for storytelling and a knack for uncovering unique tales. Her writing career has taken her from the rolling hills of the countryside to the bustling streets of the city, where she's covered a wide range of topics with curiosity and enthusiasm. With a keen eye for detail and a love of adventure, Jenny has tackled subjects as varied as truffle hunting, where she immersed herself in the ancient art of foraging for the world's most prized fungi.

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