Dog coats come in several different textures. Wirehaired dog breeds have stiff and harsh hair that stands away from their bodies. The wire-like texture of these canines makes them not only unique to the touch but also in appearance. So here are some of the top dog breeds with wire hair and what you’ll want to know about each of them.
Wirehaired Vizsla
Don’t be fooled by its name this is not simply a Vizsla with a wiry coat. It’s a totally separate breed. And its medium-length coat is what makes it unique. Found in various shades of golden rust its dense wiry coat protects it from the weather and from being injured when on the hunt.
The Wirehaired Vizsla dog breed was created by Hungarian hunters who wanted a dog that could hunt in the woods and water but also in the harsh Hungarian winter conditions. It is a serious hunting dog that is used for upland game as well as waterfowl as it is both an excellent pointer and retriever.
Dachshund
In addition to coming in two sizes (miniature and standard-sized), this short-legged badger and rabbit hunting dog also comes in three different coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. In the late 1800s, the Wirehaired Dachshund was created by crossing short-haired Dachshunds with terriers such as the Dandie Dinmont to enhance the weather resistance and protection of the breed’s coat as well as to add to its temperament.
The Schnauzer is also believed to have been used as well. Different from other coat types the Wirehaired Dachshund is specifically known for having a comical and happy-go-lucky personality.
German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is very popular in its homeland of Germany not only because of its highly versatile hunting skill set but also for the fact that it makes a devoted family companion that is great with kids. The coat of this large wirehaired dog breed offers protection from the weather and rough thorny cover when hunting.
It’s both water-resistant and water-repellant and its denseness helps to keep the dog warm in frigid water. When compared to its close relative the German Shorthaired Pointer, in addition to having a different type of coat, the German Wirehaired Pointer is also taller, tougher, and more robust.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon or Korthals Griffon was created to be an all-terrain hunter that could function in all climates and be used for a wide variety of game species. It has a medium-length coat that is straight and wiry which helps to protect the dog when working and happens to give it a shaggy-looking appearance.
Its coat is also non-shedding which makes it a suitable choice for potential owners with allergies. In addition to its coat, the breed’s head gives it its characteristic look.
A mustache, bushy eyebrows, and a nose that is always brown in color, easily distinguish it from similar-looking wirehaired hunting dog breeds, and of course most other canines as well. While supreme hunters, these are affectionate people-oriented dogs that are easy to train and eager to please.
Wire Fox Terrier
In the past, the Wire Fox Terrier and the Smooth Fox Terrier were considered to be two varieties of the same breed. Today however they are recognized as two separate breeds and the Wire Fox Terrier can be distinguished from its cousin by its rough and wiry coat.
This small British fox hunter was developed to bolt foxes from their lairs so that they could be pursued over open ground. While it makes a top-notch companion that is great with kids, its hunting background means that this is a high-energy pet and an independent thinker. These little charmers are known for being both diggers and barkers so early training is a must.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is also known as the Griffon Bruxellois and comes in two coat types rough (wiry) and smooth. With a flat face, big eyes that are set widely apart, and a fringed beard and mustache this is probably the most unique looking of all the small wirehaired dog breeds.
In fact, their unique appearance is often compared to that of the lovable and furry Ewoks from the Star Wars franchise movies. While these tiny companions may think and act like they are much bigger than they really are, they are still a toy breed and are quite delicate. And they are not recommended for homes with young children.
Irish Wolfhound
These extra large wiry haired dogs are sighthounds that once specialized in hunting wolves. The national dog of Ireland, this breed has a rough and hard coat that is particularly long and wiry around its eyes and under its jaws.
And while intimidating because of their size and known for being fierce when their owners are threatened, these giants are actually exceedingly gentle. Similar to other giant breeds like the Great Dane the Irish Wolfhound is short-lived with an average lifespan reaching about seven years on average.
Border Terrier
The aptly-named Border Terrier hails from the border of England and Scotland. Historically it was a hunter of otters, foxes, and vermin. This small wirehaired terrier breed is athletic and known for being easy to train and warmhearted. The Border Terrier is a high-energy pet that is particularly popular in the UK.
These small dogs do just as well in the country or in a city apartment as long as they get proper exercise. In addition to being a manageable size the breed’s wiry coat is also easy to care for.
Airedale Terrier
This is the largest of all terriers. It is considered both a working and hunting dog. And as such, these high-energy canines are not suited for life in an apartment or for inactive owners. They need a large space and plenty of daily exercise.
Known for its loyalty the Airedale will not hesitate to protect its home and family if the need arises. The breed’s wiry coat is easy to maintain and clean. And because it sheds very lightly and produces little dander the Airedale is considered to be a hypoallergenic breed that is ideal for owners with allergies.
Jack Russell Terrier
This breed is famous for its small size yet spunky attitude. The Jack Russell Terrier is a hunting terrier and therefore is full of energy. While small it needs plenty of exercise each and every day and isn’t an ideal pet for apartment living.
These smart, loyal, and friendly dogs come in three different coat textures: smooth, broken, and rough. It is the rough-coated dogs that have wiry coats. Their coats are straight and long with the hair growing in different directions which gives their coats a textured appearance.
Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a medium size wirehaired dog breed with a beard. They also have distinct arched eyebrows and a square frame. The breed’s short and wiry coat comes in two attractive colors solid black and pepper and salt. While it originally functioned as a well-rounded farm dog that could rid the barn of rats and also guard, today it’s mainly a companion.
For those who admire this aristocratic German dog, there are two other sizes (which are considered separate breeds) to choose from: the Giant Schnauzer and the Miniature Schnauzer.
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