Bull Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier

Terrier · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Bull Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 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 has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Wire Fox Terrier sheds less.
  • The Wire Fox Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBull TerrierWire Fox Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
21–22"15"
Height (female)
21–22"15"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs17–19 lbs
Weight (female)
50–70 lbs15–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)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.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous egg-headed gladiator — Spuds MacKenzie, the original Target dog. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.

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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Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Heart disease
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney problems

Wire Fox Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism