Smooth Fox Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier

Smooth Fox Terrier
Smooth Fox Terrier

Friendly, Independent, Amusing

Wire Fox Terrier
Wire Fox Terrier

Confident, Alert, Gregarious

Breed Compatibility

86% Compatible

Energy Level

Smooth Fox Terrier: Energetic0.8
Wire Fox Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible

Trainability

Smooth Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Wire Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible

Grooming Needs

Smooth Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Wire Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible

Cost Category

Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible

Compatibility with Others

Good with Children
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Wire Fox Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Wire Fox Terrier5/5

Health & Care Comparison

Smooth Fox Terrier

Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Cataracts: Vision clouding condition
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Epilepsy: Neurological seizures
Patellar luxation: Kneecap issues
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint problem

Wire Fox Terrier

Cataracts: Progressive eye cloudiness
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint deformity
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Allergies: Skin sensitivities common
Heart murmurs: Cardiac irregularities

Pros & Cons Comparison

Smooth Fox Terrier

Pros
Highly intelligent
Low maintenance coat
Excellent watchdog
Athletic and agile
Cons
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
Requires firm training
High exercise needs

Wire Fox Terrier

Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent watchdogs
Low shedding coat
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May be vocal

Smooth Fox Terrier Fun Fact

Their distinctive white coat helped hunters distinguish them from foxes during traditional hunts!

Wire Fox Terrier Fun Fact

These terriers were among the first breeds registered with the AKC and have won more Westminster Best in Shows than most breeds!

Heritage & Purpose

Smooth Fox Terrier

Origin:

Developed in England during the 19th century, these terriers excelled at fox hunting, particularly in driving foxes from their dens. Their smooth coat allowed easy movement through underground burrows.

Wire Fox Terrier

Origin: England

Developed in England during the 1800s, these skilled hunters excelled at flushing foxes from their dens, working alongside mounted hunting parties in pursuit of game.

Special Considerations

Smooth Fox Terrier

Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming maintains coat condition. Regular exercise essential to prevent destructive behavior.

Wire Fox Terrier

Regular professional grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization crucial for managing terrier temperament.

Shedding

Occasional

Shedding

Infrequent

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