Wire Fox Terrier vs Smooth Fox Terrier
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Wire Fox Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Smooth Fox Terrier: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Wire Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Smooth Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Wire Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Smooth Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Wire Fox Terrier3/5
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
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 Fun Fact
These terriers were among the first breeds registered with the AKC and have won more Westminster Best in Shows than most breeds!
Smooth Fox Terrier Fun Fact
Their distinctive white coat helped hunters distinguish them from foxes during traditional hunts!
Heritage & Purpose
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.
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.
Special Considerations
Wire Fox Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization crucial for managing terrier temperament.
Smooth Fox Terrier
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming maintains coat condition. Regular exercise essential to prevent destructive behavior.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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