Wire Fox Terrier Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Wire Fox Terrier
The Wire Fox Terrier is a bold, energetic British terrier bred to bolt fox from their dens during the hunt, distinguished by its dense, crinkly wire coat and predominantly white body with tan or black markings. Alert, fearless, and full of fun, it is a quintessential terrier: quick, curious, and always ready for action. Deeply devoted to its family and famously charismatic in the show ring, the Wire Fox Terrier retains strong prey drive, digging instincts, and independence. It thrives with active owners who provide exercise, engaging training, and regular hand-stripping of its distinctive coat.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsHigher than most
Energy levelDefining trait
TrainabilityTypical
Grooming effortHigher than most
SheddingMinimal
BarkingHigher than most
Apartment fitTypical
Good with childrenTypical
Good with other dogsLower than most
First-time ownersLower than most
1 active listing
Search all puppies →Available now in:Virginia (1)
Where this breed shines
- Low-shedding wiry coat
- Bold, charismatic, and affectionate companion
- Athletic and up for any activity
- Alert and effective watchdog
Things to consider
- Very high energy and prey drive
- Coat requires regular hand-stripping
- Can be scrappy with other dogs
- Independent, stubborn streak needs experienced handling
History
Developed in 19th-century England from rough-coated black-and-tan terriers to work alongside foxhounds, the Wire Fox Terrier shares origins with the Smooth Fox Terrier but was long bred separately. It became a Victorian and Edwardian favorite, dominating dog shows and earning AKC recognition in the 1880s. It remains one of the most successful terriers in show history.
Temperament
Confident, lively, and affectionate, the Wire Fox Terrier is a spirited companion that adores its family and greets life with enthusiasm. It is bold, curious, and mischievous, with strong prey drive and a stubborn independent streak. Highly intelligent, it needs engaging, positive training and can be scrappy with other dogs.
Questions to ask a Wire Fox Terrier breeder
- Have the parents had eye exams and cardiac checks?
- Is there any history of Legg-Calve-Perthes or lens luxation?
- How is the litter's temperament with dogs and children?
- Do you hand-strip, and how should the coat be maintained?
Health considerations to discuss
Primary lens luxation. A hereditary eye disorder; request eye or DNA clearances.
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. A hip condition affecting some small terriers.
Deafness. Predominantly white breeds can carry congenital deafness risk.
Epilepsy. Ask about any seizure history in the pedigree.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club (UK) — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Wire Fox Terrier litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Wire Fox Terrier puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Wire Fox Terrier listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Wire Fox Terrier puppies cost?
Listed puppies are priced at $2,000. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Wire Fox Terrier breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.