Boxer vs Wire Fox Terrier

Working · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Boxer is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Wire Fox Terrier.
  • The Wire Fox Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Wire Fox Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBoxerWire Fox Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
GermanyEngland
Height (male)
23–25"15"
Height (female)
21.5–23.5"15"
Weight (male)
65–80 lbs17–19 lbs
Weight (female)
50–65 lbs15–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Boxer

The Boxer is a bright, fun-loving, active working dog — eternally puppyish, devoted to family, wary of strangers. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, active.

About the Wire Fox Terrier

The Wire Fox Terrier is a confident, alert, gregarious fox-bolter — high-spirited British show ring star with a wiry white coat. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, alert, gregarious.

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Boxer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Heart conditions
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat

Wire Fox Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism