The Wire Fox Terriers are very independent and can be a bit mischievous at times. They are dogs that can be quite willing to learn new tricks.

Wire Fox Terriers are very good with children, but care must be taken when they are around smaller kids because they can sometimes be a bit rough with them. These dogs really enjoy having fun and love to mix any show of affection with playing time.

They make excellent family pets.

The Origin of the Wire Fox Terriers

The Wire Fox Terriers originated in England from somewhere in the 1800s. These dogs were originally used to hunt dogs and fox. Some dog enthusiasts believe that the Wire Fox Terriers and the Smooth Fox Terriers share the same history and background but there does not exist any documented proof of this theory.

It was about twenty years after the Smooth Fox Terrier appeared in the show ring that the Wire Fox Terrier started to gain popularity. To help improve the Wire type of these dogs, interbreeding was done using both breeds of dogs.

The popularity of the Wire Fox Terriers increased after World War II. The American Kennel Club divided the dogs into two separate breeds, the Wire Fox version and the Smooth Fox version. These dogs were officially recognized by the Club in 1985. They have become very popular family pets all over the world and are always seen competing in dog shows.

Caring for the Wire Fox Terriers

If you want to own a Wire Fox Terrier you need to be a very active person, because these dogs are very energetic and need a lot of daily exercise to be contented. They require several brisk walks on the leash and of course a lot of play time outdoors.

Wire Fox Terriers do well in both moderately hot and cold temperatures. During the day, they would be very happy if allowed to spend time outside in a fenced yard. In the nighttime they should sleep inside with the family.

Their rough coat needs to be brushed thoroughly at least three times a week and to keep it neat it needs to be trimmed regularly.

Health Issues with the Wire Fox Terriers

These dogs are rather healthy and have no major health problem connected to them. Some minor health issues for these dogs include Legg-Perthes, lens luxation, cataracts, and distichiasis. Patellar luxation and deafness very rarely occur in these dogs.

It is recommended by veterinarians that you get your Wire Fox Terrier tested for eye problems.

If taken care of properly a Wire Fox Terrier can live between ten and thirteen years.

The Westies have a fun-loving character that they also extend to strange dogs and other people. They are always ready to make new friends but are a bit reserved with other pets around the house. These dogs get so easily attached to the whole family that they become very friendly with each one of them. They are very good watchdogs, especially at night, barking at any person or animal that may approach and at any noise they may hear.

Origin of the West Highland White Terrier Dogs

The West Highland White Terrier Dogs originated in Scotland during the 1800s. During that period, these dogs actually carried the bloodline of different other Terriers who all had very good hunting abilities. These Terriers were very efficient in hunting small prey such as badger, fox and vermin.

Different breeds of Terriers such as the Skye Terrier, the Westie, the Scottish Terrier and the Cairn Terrier were all believed to be one type of dogs. Breeders, through selective breeding, created a variety of Terriers with special qualities such as color and coat type. This selective breeding was easily maintained throughout Scotland and several of the islands west of the country.

It wasn’t until 1907, that the West Highland White Terrier Dogs became very popular. At that time they were known as the “Poltalloch Terrier”. However, throughout the years, this breed also became known as Little Skye, Roseneath, Cairn and the White Scottish. In 1908, this breed was registered with the American Kennel Club as the Roseneath Terrier. In 1909, the name Roseneath Terrier was changed to the West Highland White Terrier.

Caring for the West Highland White Terrier Dogs

The West Highland White Terrier Dogs can withstand warm and cool temperatures but are not the type of dogs that should be left to live outside. Instead, they should be allowed to stay inside the house most of the time and at night sleep with the family. During the day, they should have a fenced-in yard where they can run around freely.

The Westies are very energetic dogs that need to exercise every day. However, because they are such small dogs, they would do quite well with a few brisk walks on the leash, running around in the yard or playing inside the house.

Their wiry coat should be thoroughly brushed two or three times every week. It is also recommended that to keep their coats neat they should have it professionally trimmed every few months.

Health Issues for the West Highland White Terrier Dogs

There are several major health concerns connected to the West Highland White Terrier Dogs such as CMO (Craniomandibular Osteopathy), Legg-Perthes, skin disease and globoid cell leukodystrophy. Some minor health concerns include KCS (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca), copper toxicosis, patellar luxation and cataracts.

A healthy West Highland White Terrier can live between twelve and fourteen years.

The Welsh Terrier Dogs are very friendly with children, but they are not so friendly to other pets in the house. These dogs are very good watchdogs, reserved and always wary of strangers. Some Welsh Terriers make training difficult because they are a bit stubborn and strong-headed. They will bark and dig if left unattended.

The Origin of the Welsh Terrier Dogs

The Welsh Terrier Dogs originated in Wales during the 1700s and are one of two breeds of Terriers that are a native of Wales. The Black and Tan Rough Terriers were popular in Britain during the latter part of the 18^th century. It is believed that the Welsh Terrier Dogs are descendants of this breed.

During that period, North Wales produced a terrier breed known as “Ynysfor”. Exactly that same period, Northern England also produced a breed that was known as the “Old English Broken Haired Terrier” that looked exactly like the “Ynysfor”. These two breeds were so identical that, when they competed in the show ring, people thought that they were one and the same breed.

These two breeds were eventually classified as the same group of dogs and became known as the Welsh Terriers. In 1886, the English Kennel Club officially recognized the Welsh Terriers. To further improve the breed, breeders crossed the Welsh Terriers with the Wire Fox Terriers. These dogs are very good companions that can always be seen participating in dog shows.

Taking Care of the Welsh Terrier Dogs

The Welsh Terriers are moderately active dogs that need only a few brisk walks on the leash every day and some time to run about in the yard. They get tired easily when exercising a lot. These dogs love to relax just as much as they love to play. Welsh Terriers are dogs that want to hunt, so they should always be kept in a fenced-in yard if they are off the leash outside.

The Welsh Terrier Dogs can withstand both cool and warm weather but they should never be left to live completely outdoors. These dogs become very attached to their owners especially since they need a lot of human interaction. Therefore, they should be allowed to sleep inside the house at night with the family.

Their wiry coat should be brushed thoroughly every two to three days. The Welsh Terriers should also get their wiry coat clipped by a professional once every few months to keep it neat.

Health issues for the Welsh Terrier Dogs

The Welsh Terrier Dogs do not have any major health issues. Two minor health issues are glaucoma and lens luxation. Seizures and allergies are rarely seen in these dogs.

It is recommended by veterinarians that the Welsh Terrier Dogs get tested for eye problems.

Welsh Terriers that are well taken care of can live between twelve and fourteen years.

The Stafford Bull Terrier Dogs are devoted and loyal to their families and always require human companionship. These dogs are friendly towards other dogs, pets and even strangers but they are always ready to protect their loved ones. They are good to have around children but they may be a bit too rough with smaller children.

The Origin of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs originated in England in the 1800s. During this period, these dogs were used to chase and kill rats, which was one of the most popular sporting events. The ordinary working class of people enjoyed these sporting events. Eventually these dogs were used   to fight other dogs. This fight became known as “bull baiting”.

Breeders, who wanted to develop a more agile, faster and stronger fighting dog, crossed the Black and Tan Terrier with the Bulldog of that period resulting in the Bull and Terrier. Breeders continued their selective breeding of these dogs and eventually they came up with a smaller dog that had more strength in its jaw and was less hostile towards people. This dog is known today as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Eventually, dog fighting was banned in England. But because the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs were still loved by their fans, these dogs were still used for illegal dog fights. However, these dogs soon began to compete with other dogs in the show ring. As a result, in 1935, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs were recognized by the English Kennel Club and in 1974 they were recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Caring for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs are actually very active dogs that require exercise every day. Taking them for a walk on the leash every day and allowing them to catch and chase is ideal for them. It is not recommended that these dogs play near water as they are not good swimmers. During the day, these dogs should have a safe area to run and roam about freely.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs should not be left outside altogether but should be allowed to sleep inside the house at night with the family. These dogs can only withstand cool temperatures so it’s best to have them as house pets. Because these dogs coat is short, it is only necessary to brush them at least once every two weeks to remove dead hair.

Health issues of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs

The only major health issue that is common among these dogs is CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). They do not have any minor health issues. Cataract is rare among them. It is recommended by veterinarians that this breed be checked for eye and hip problems. If the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs are well taken care of, they can live between twelve to fourteen years.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Dogs are very friendly towards other dogs, pets and also to strangers. They are always ready to make new friends, either with people or other dogs and are easy to train. Whenever they have the opportunity they tend to jump and dig.

The Origin of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Dogs originated in Ireland and documents show that these dogs have been around from as far back as the 1700s. This breed of dogs is the only one of three different breeds of large Terriers that came out of Ireland. At that time they were used as herding dogs, to hunt vermin and as all-around farm dogs.

Experts believe that the Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are descendants of the Kerry Blue Terriers but there are no documents to prove that this is so. The Irish have admired these dogs for years as winners in competitions and as very good hunters of rabbits, badgers and rodents.

In 1943 the Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers were recognized by the English Kennel Club. Then in 1946 the first Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Dog arrived in the United States of America. At the beginning, these dogs did not attract much public attention, but in 1973, almost 30 years later, they were recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Caring for the Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are dogs that love to spend time outdoors playing and roaming freely but they also love to spend time inside the house. These dogs are moderately active and require only a few brisk walks on the leash every day and a fenced-in area where they can run around safely since they tend to chase and hunt.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are comfortable in cool temperatures but are very uncomfortable in hot temperatures. A proper living arrangement for these dogs is to let them out in the yard during the day and to allow them to sleep inside the house at night with the family.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers prosper on human companionship and are loyal to their owners. These dogs do not have a shedding problem but in order to keep loose hair from matting, it would be necessary to groom them every two to three days.

Health Care Issues of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

There are two major health issues of concern that are common in this breed. They are PLN and PLE and both of these diseases make them lose protein. Minor health issues that are of some concern include Addison’s disease and renal dysplasia. CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia) and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) are very rare in these dogs.

It is recommended by veterinarians that these Terriers get checked for hip and eye problems. If the Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are well taken care of, they can live between twelve and fourteen years.

The Smooth Fox Terrier dogs are believed to be one of the most active and energetic dog that belongs to the Terrier group. These dogs really need to be very active so, they can do with any available space that would allow them to run around freely. They are great dogs for families that are very active and spend a lot of time outdoors. This would give them the opportunity they need to use up all the energy they have.

The Origin of the Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier originated in England, and even though there does not exist any documentation about their ancestry, we do know that they go back to the late 1700s. By the early 1800s these dogs were very popular even before they started to participate in dog shows, and were one of the first breed of dogs to do so.

At first the Smooth Fox Terriers were used to chase fox and to hunt small animals. During these hunts they would be a part of the pack of Foxhounds that led the chase. The interbreeding of the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Wire Fox Terrier was practiced for a while, but that did not last too long.

This practice of interbreeding the two breeds was discontinued before the late 1900s and in 1985 the American Kennel Club recognized and classified both varieties as distinct breeds. The Smooth Fox Terrier has remained a moderately popular household pet. These dogs are also regular competitors in dog shows all over the world.

Caring for the Smooth Fox Terrier

Because the Smooth Fox Terriers are extremely energetic they definitely require daily exercise. If these dogs are left on their own for too long they will find something to do. We all know that this will only lead to frustration and probably destruction as well. It is necessary that these dogs have owners who love to spend quality time with their dogs.

Smooth Fox Terriers do well in moderately hot or cold temperatures. They can be outside as long as the weather is not extreme, but should be allowed to sleep indoors at night with the family. These dogs love human companionship and are very devoted to their owners. Smooth Fox Terriers shed a lot and need to be brushed thoroughly at least once a week to remove dead hair.

Health Issues with the Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terriers are relatively healthy dogs and have no major health issue connected to them. Some minor health issues may include Legg-Perthes, cataracts, distichiasis and lens luxation.

Very rare patellar luxation and deafness may occur. It is recommended by veterinarians that you have your Smooth Fox Terrier tested for eye problem. If properly taken care of a healthy Smooth Fox Terrier may live between ten to thirteen years.

Skye Terriers are very sensitive but they can also be stubborn and bold. These dogs love human companionship and are very affectionate with members of the family. They are very playful and love the mental stimulation of dog training. Skye Terriers are cautious with other pets and especially with strangers, so they make excellent watchdogs.

The Origin of the Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier originated in Scotland mostly in the west coastal area, dating back to the 1500s. They were mainly used to hunt fox and otter. They got their name because the purest of the breed was found along the Isle of Skye.

Even though the exact history of these dogs is still unknown, reference was made about them especially about their beautiful coats, sometime in the 16^th century. At first there were several breeds of these small terriers all grouped together under the same name.  In 1840 Queen Victoria became interested in the breed and the Skye Terrier that we know today became the official version. These dogs then became popular with the rich and poor alike.

The American Kennel Club recognized the Skye Terrier as an official breed in 1887, after which they soon became a popular show dog. Even though these dogs have very distinctive looks and hunting abilities, their popularity decreased and so did their numbers. Today they have become one of the least popular house pets.

Caring for the Skye Terrier

Skye Terriers are not very energetic dogs, so their exercise requirements can be met with a few walks on the leash every day. Being hunters at heart, they should be allowed time to explore outdoors in a safe area. They should not live outdoors but should be afforded the comfort of living inside.

If necessary these dogs make very good companions for people who live in small apartments. In order to keep the Sky Terrier’s long-haired coats neat, it is necessary to brush them thoroughly about two times a week.

Health Concerns for the Skye Terrier

The Skye Terriers are very healthy dogs that have no major health issues. The only minor health problem connected to this breed of dogs is premature closure of distal radius. With proper care and attention a healthy Skye Terrier may live between twelve and fourteen years.

The Sealyham Terriers love to play and to dig and chase. They make very good companions and are especially good to have around children. These dogs are not too friendly with other pets in the house and are a little cautious with strange people and other dogs around. This breed makes very good watch dogs that will bark continuously at night whenever anyone approaches.

The Origin of the Sealyham Terrier Dogs

The Sealyham Terriers originated in Wales in the 1800s. Some people believe that they may even go back to the 15^th century. Captain John Edwards, the man who worked to create this breed of dogs, lived in Sealyham, and is believed to be a direct descendant of the family who imported these small dogs into Wales.

The captain worked hard from 1850 to 1891, mixing different breeds to create the Sealyham Terrier.  The exact crosses that went into the creation of these dogs are not documented, but many people believe that it included traits of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. It does not really matter what bloodlines went into the creation of these dogs, what resulted was the Sealyham Terrier. These dogs quickly became popular as a successful hunter of small animals, foxes and otters.

In 1903 these dogs began entering dog competitions and quickly became winners. The Sealyham Terrier dogs became officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1911. These dogs became very popular with dog lovers who were looking for smart looking dogs with hunting skills and dog show qualities. This breed of dogs remains very good competitors in dog shows all over the world.

Care and Attention for the Sealyham Terrier Dogs

The Sealyham Terrier dogs do not really require a great deal of exercise because they are only moderately active dogs. Short walks on the leash and romps around the living room floor would meet the adequate daily exercise requirements of these dogs. The Sealyham Terriers make very good house pets for people who live in small apartments.

Sealyham Terriers do well in both moderately hot and cool temperatures. When given the opportunity these dogs love to play and explore outdoors, but should not be left outside all the time. It is best if these dogs are allowed to live indoors. A good brushing of its wiry coat should be done two or three times a week. To keep its coat neat it is also recommended that they get a good shaping every three months.

Health Concerns for the Sealyham Terrier Dogs

There is really no major health problems connected to these dogs. Minor health problems may include lens luxation and retinal dysplasia. It is recommended by veterinarians that you get your Sealyham Terrier dog tested for any eye problem. Healthy Sealyham Terriers may live between eleven and thirteen years.

To begin with, all the terrier dogs that came from Scotland were referred to as “Scottish Terriers”. But the official Scottish Terrier of today was classified as a “Skye Terrier”. It doesn’t matter where the early Scottish Terriers originated, they were some of the most hard- working hunting dogs. These dogs would really pursue their prey regardless of the type of conditions and terrain.

To make matters worse with the naming of these dogs, some people referred to them as “Aberdeen Terriers”, because they were very popular with the people of that region. Some people protested the different names given to these dogs, until finally sometime in the year 1880 the dogs were specifically described and officially named the “Scottish Terrier”.

It was in the year 1883 that the Scottish Terriers first came to the United States. Their popularity was very slow at first, and then increased tremendously after World War II. The most popular Scottish Terrier that we know about is a dog named Fala that belonged to Franklin Roosevelt.

The Characteristics of the Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier dogs can be described as very rugged and tough. Because these dogs are very bold, they are sometimes called “Diehard”. These dogs are very active, smart and inquisitive. If provoked, the Scottish Terrier can be quite fearless and aggressive. It does not matter what the size of the other dog or animal may be. But when it comes to its family, these dogs are very protective and loyal.

Care and Attention for the Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier dogs need a lot of exercise. These dogs love adventure and excitement, so they need a lot of outdoor physical activities. Scottish Terrier dogs do well in both cold and warm temperatures. Although these dogs can live outdoors, like with all other family dogs, it is recommended that they be allowed to sleep inside with the family.

Their coats need a good thorough brushing at least two to four times a week. Further grooming may include clipping and stripping, especially for coat fashion and dog shows.

Health Concerns for the Scottish Terrier

The main health issues connected to the Scottish Terrier are CMO (Craniomandibular Osteopathy) and VWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease). Other minor problems may be patellar luxation, Scotty cramp and cerebellar abiotrophy. With good care and attention a healthy Scottish Terrier may live between eleven and fourteen years.

These dogs were very popular with ‘dog fighting’ enthusiasts. Although dog fighting was declared illegal, it was still a very popular sport. The number of Staffordshire Terriers increased immensely in the United States in the 1800’s, because these dogs were imported for dog fighting entertainment. They became known as the American bull Terrier around this time.

Because Americans wanted a larger more aggressive type of dog, they combined the English and American breeds. The result was a new breed of dogs called the American Staffordshire Terrier better known as the Pit Bull. This breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1936.

Characteristics of the American Staffordshire Terrier Breed of Dogs

When these dogs are feeling defensive they can be very aggressive, especially if they feel that they have to protect their family. No matter what, these dogs would do anything to protect their owners and their property. This makes them very excellent watchdogs.

As long as their owners are around, these dogs are usually very friendly. But when other dogs are around they can be very stubborn and unyielding.

Care and Attention for the American Staffordshire Terrier Dogs

These dogs require lots of daily exercise which can include long walks and active running games. This breed of dog can adapt very well to living outdoors, but they are much more comfortable living indoors with their family. They do not require a lot of grooming, but their coats do need brushing at least once a week.

Health Issues

Major health problems for these dogs include CHD, PRA, and Cerebellar Ataxia. Other minor problems may include dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and heart disease. Occasionally, they could suffer from allergies and cruciate ligament rupture.

It is recommended that you have your American Staffordshire Terrier tested for hip and elbow problems, thyroid and cardiac problems, and also for eye problems. The American Staffordshire Terrier can live between twelve to fourteen years.