"On The Tiptoe of Expectation!"

      It is unfortunately surprising that there is little in print regarding the temperament of the Wire Fox Terrier.  Today, there is increased emphasis on this important intangible characteristic. The approved AKC standard for the Wire reads:  "The Terrier should be alert, quick of movement, keen of expression, on the tiptoe of expectation at the slightest provocation."  That's all!  The English standard states even less:  "Friendly, forthcoming and fearless." 
       
     In the 50th Anniversary Book of The American Fox Terrier Club, the following is excerpted:  "The Fox Terrier is a small black and white disturbance which afflicts and delights many family.  The Fox Terrier has straight legs, an active, expressive face, a lean well shaped head, talkative eyes, and a nose which leads him from one misdemeanor to another. Originally he had a liberal tail, but it has been edited and revised by man.  This was done because when a Fox Terrier's tail was as active as his head, it took two people to watch him." 
        
     Referring to the Wire in his book, Harold Nedell adds, "Character is imparted by the expression of the eyes and by the carriage of ears and tail."  How true! Further, he writes on temperament:  "Intensely inquisitive, supremely happy, or aggressively combatant--  all are attributes of correct Wire disposition. The Wire should not be shy; neither should he be foolhardy." 

     The Wire type dog is often pictured with children in Normand Rockwell’s 
paintings.  They're so perfect for each other--  neither can wear the other one out! A Wire will not be ignored.  He thinks that everything his master does is sooooooo extremely clever--  he'll wag his tail (morning after morning) while his master puts on his shoes!