18 Dog Breeds With Wiry Hair: Complete Guide with Pictures

Wirehaired refers to a dog that has stiff hair or rough hair that is similar to a wire. These pups were initially bred to provide more insulation and protection to the dogs when faced with extremely harsh and cold terrain.

These breeds have coarse and short coats that feel tough and stubbly to the touch, and sometimes such a coat is also referred to as a broken coat. These breeds were produced in the British Isles and usually had characterful and prominent mustaches, beards, and eyebrows. So, if you are looking for one, here is a complete guide for 18 dog breeds with wiry hair.

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher is also known as the Monkey Terrier and is a terrier-like toy pinscher breed of puppy. These dogs were originated from Germany and France.

Affenpinscher Appearance

The wiry-haired small-sized dog Affenpinscher weighs around 7-10 pounds and has 9-11.5 inches of height. These petite pups have wiry, medium-length fur, making them look tough compared to the usual toy breed as it adds width to their legs and chest.

They have a round head due to their wiry fur, which shows a monkey-like face, and this requires their fur to be combed at least two times a week to prevent matting. Along with unique faces, Affenpinschers have black eyes then easily blend with their usual black coats though they can have red, grey, beige, black, and beige combos.

Affenpinscher Temperament

The Affenpinschers are outgoing, playful, and willful little dogs. They have great stamina, courage, and agility but still, show occasion displays of gentleness and sensitivity.

These pups are fast learners and possess a distinct thinking process. Since they are quite intelligent, they get easily bored and require opportunities to release their energies and have their required social interactions. They do not like to be chased, hugged, or squeezed but still are quite playful and affectionate.

Border Terrier

The Border Terrier was generally referred to as the Redesdale Terrier or Coquetdale Terrier. These pups were recognized in the late 1800s and were originated from the Anglo-Scottish border.

Border Terrier Appearance

Border Terrier is small-sized dogs that weigh around 11.5 to 15.5 pounds and have a height of 12 to 15 inches. These dogs are said to have otter-like heads, and they have quizzical eyebrows and their mouth shrouded in whiskers give them the appearance of a swimmer.

They have double coats accompanied with short, wiry hairs on the top and fluffy hair underneath them, and their grooming needs are low, while keeping them clean looking is an easy task. They range from grizzle, red, cream, tan, and blue colors with deep brown eyes giving away deep and expressive looks.

Border Terrier Temperament

Border Terriers are usually friendly, playful, and outgoing dogs, and they also make good companions for families that love to stay active. They easily get along with children, and they need physical exercise every day to keep their minds stimulated.

These dogs love to learn and are quite intelligent, and they easily get along with other dogs and cats, but that completely depends on how they have been trained and socialized. They are great for first-time owners and can easily be trained without any issues.

Brussels Griffon

Brussels Griffon, also known as Belgium Griffons, Petit Brabançon Griffon and Belge Brabançon Griffon are originated from Belgium.

Brussels Griffon Appearance

Brussels Griffons have a height of around 7 to 10 inches and weigh around 8 to 10 pounds. These puppies have a life span of 12 to 15 years and are pint-sized companions that make your house lively. These dogs have rough coats, and they carry a hipster-like look with their shaggy fur but with smooth coats having short hair that makes them appear more like a pug.

These dogs have red, black, and tan, a mix of reddish-brown and black and black colors, while their eyes are usually black, extremely expressive, and large, but sometimes few pups of the breed display blue eyes occasionally.

Related: Which Dog Breeds Look Like Ewoks?

Brussels Griffon Temperament

Brussels Griffon is a playful, friendly, anxious, and outgoing type of dog. These dogs have high energy levels and are extremely intelligent, and training them is quite easy as they are obedient and agile.

These puppies stay soft if they are given good walks and plenty of playtimes, and they are also overprotective of their owners, making them a bit snappy if provoked. These dogs are good with children and are extremely friendly, but they have strong prey drive as they have quite good instincts, but still, they are great family dogs and are quite adaptable.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Dandie Dinmont Terrier is usually called Dandie Hindlee Terrier with love and is a small pup that originated from Scotland.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Appearance

Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a body covered in around two inches of long soft, and hard hair while its head is covered in silky soft hair. This dog has silk tassels on its ears, and the topknot provides a determined, soft, dignified, and wise look to the dog.

This puppy does not have any typical terrier breed-like features and has a moderately long, scimitar-like tail, while the length of this pup is double its height. Additionally, these dogs have shorter front legs while comparatively, their hind legs are longer.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Temperament

Dandie Dinmont Terrier is one of the independent dogs put there and is highly intelligent as well. But this breed usually becomes shy in the presence of strangers and becomes aggressive towards other pups.

These dogs are quite bossy, and people of all ages love their companionship; they are affectionate, adorable, and friendly. These pups love to tumble and are always ready to hunt but still possess a very decent and affectionate character.

Irish Terrier

Irish Terrier is originated from Ireland and is an 18 to 19 inches dog in height and is also known as Irish Red Terrier.

Irish Terrier Appearance

Irish Terriers have a very graceful, athletic, and racy appearance; these dogs have fairly long and approximately upright necks. Their chest is deep yet muscular but not wide, while the front legs are long and straight.

Their head has a flat skull, and they have no skin or wrinkles. These dogs have dark eyes that are intense but small and show their intelligence, and they are available in red, rust, red and cream, cream and wheaten red colors.

Irish Terrier Temperament

Irish Terrier is also known as daredevil as this pup is fearless and intelligent, but this dog is also loyal and devoted to its owners. Though these pups can be reckless and perform actions without thinking of consequences that make them aggressive with other dogs, socialization at an early age is important.

These dogs are affectionate and are quite good with children. They do not suffer from separation anxiety as they are independent, but their contempt for dangers makes them great for guard dogs, unlike their soft appearance.

Otterhound

Otterhound is originated in the United Kingdom, and these hound dogs have 24 to 27 inches of height while having 10 to 13 years of age.

Otterhound Appearance

The Otterhound are large dogs having strong limbs and torsos; they have big heads with broad skulls. These dogs have long hair around their face and great eyebrows, and a moderate beard and mustache.

They have long and strong necks and back having muscles while their tail tapers to a point and is thick. They have large paws and are available in grizzle, sandy, red, liver, tan, blue, wheaten, and many more colors.

Otterhound Temperament

These pups come with a pleasant character and have no aggression phases; they are amusing and bossy and enjoy playing with their owners and other dogs. They are social dogs and love to play in the dirt.

Otterhounds are usually independent, making them less aggressive, and when they are exhausted and have enjoyed their whole day completely, they go for a nap. They have a sharp nose and are perfect as watchdogs.

Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier originated from Scotland are quite helpful when it comes to managing vermin problems. These pups are also called Abhag Albannach and Aberdeen Terrier.

Scottish Terrier Appearance

Scottish Terriers are usually 10 inches tall and weigh around 18 to 22 pounds. They have an impressive beard and a wiry outer coat that can easily get long if not trimmed and touch the ground.

They have black, brindle, gray or wheaten colors, straight standing ears, and short, muscular, and leveled tails. They have a life expectancy of around 12 to 15 years.

Scottish Terrier Temperament

Scottish Terriers are usually very aggressive, independent, and sometimes appear too excited while having the energy of a big dog but in a little pup’s body. As they grow, they become moody and can be quite aggressive and stubborn if not trained properly.

They can snap at kids and do not require much attention and are great for people who do not have children, or if they have, they are older and treat dogs with respect. Otherwise, they will face the aggressive Scottish Terrier.

Also Read: 21 of the Most Adorable Scottish Terrier Mix Breeds

Wirehaired Fox Terrier

Wirehaired Fox Terrier, also known as Wire Hair Fox Terrier and Wire WFT, is a pup that originated from England known to be quick, bold, and fearless.

Wirehaired Fox Terrier Appearance

Wirehaired Fox Terrier is a small pup that weighs between 15 pounds to 19 pounds. This dog has a height of 12 to 15 inches, and on average, they are 15.15 inches tall.

They are present in many colors, like while combinations of black and white or white and tan, and can also possess a tricolor scheme. In addition, they usually have short hair coats that have wire-like surfaces.

Wirehaired Fox Terrier Temperament

Wirehaired Fox Terrier is one of the self-confident dogs present, which is very outgoing and generally highly spirited. They are great with children and can easily get along with other animals with which they are raised.

These dogs are amazing hunters, and due to their alert and perfect hearing and vision qualities, they also make great watchdogs. Wirehaired Fox Terrier dogs are very mischievous and love to be in the center of the spotlight and enjoy all the attention they get.

Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terrier belongs to the United Kingdom. These pups are also called Bingley Terrier and Waterside Terrier. They are originated in the valley of River Aire and are sometimes called as King of Terriers.

Airedale Terrier Appearance

Airedale is large and deep-chested, has a long head, and dark snappy eyes. Their ears are erect, and these pups are fit and have athletic bodies.

Their coat is rough and wiry, and they are available in tan, the reddish-tan color having a saddle in black or red color and require trimming sessions so that their coats do not overgrow.

Airedale Terrier Temperament

Airedale terriers have hunting instincts, and they also require training to control independent thinking and aggressive nature. However, they are affectionate and friendly.

These dogs are intelligent as well as fearless, playful, and agile. They love playing outside and are good with other dogs and people.

Also Read: 9 of the Top Airedale Terrier Mixes

Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier, also originated from England, is a lively, clever, and independent dog. This pup was developed in England around 200 years ago to hunt foxes and Parson Russell Terrier.

Jack Russell Terrier Appearance

Jack Russell Terrier has a height of 10 to 15 inches and has three different coats; they have smooth, rough, and broken coats. They do not require much grooming, just weekly brushing sessions.

Their coat colors are tan, brown, and black. This dog is small and has a longer body frame and long legs, larger heads, and chests.

Jack Russell Terrier Temperament

Jack Russell Terriers are confident and happy pups; they are high on energy and intelligent dogs. However, these dogs can easily get bored and start digging and barking.

They are funny, friendly, affectionate, and engaging. These dogs make great companions for adults but are not a great choice for leaving them with kids as they can get aggressive.

Also Read: 15 Amazing Dog Breeds With a High Prey Drive

Wirehaired Dachshund

Wirehaired Dachshund is also known as teckel, and they are bred from the early 18^th century and in Germany mainly to play the role of hunting badgers below and above ground. Their parents are Dachshunds and Pinschers.

Wirehaired Dachshund Appearance

Wirehaired Dachshunds have long but short legs and a very thick and coarse outer coat, but their coats are wiry, short, and unique. Their undercoat is fluffier and soft.

They have silky smooth ears and long bushy eyebrows, and hairy beards. These dogs are available in red, chocolate tan, black tan, silver dapple tan, and chocolate dapple tan colors.

Wirehaired Dachshund Temperament

Wirehaired Dachshund is territorial and a bit stubborn. However, these dogs are independent and also courageous, full of energy and confidence.

They are loyal, a bit loud, affectionate, loving, and playful. Though they can sometimes become greedy, they are quite intelligent and gentle with other dogs if socialized properly.

Also Read: 19 Dog Breeds Most Prone to Obesity

West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier originated from Scotland, and these pups have been given many names since their existence, such as Poltalloch Terrier and the Roseneath Terrier.

West Highland White Terrier Appearance

The West Highland White Terrier has 10 to 11 inches of height and weighs around 15-20 lbs. This small breed is available only in white color and has a 13-15 years lifespan.

They have a coarser outer fur and a soft undercoat and require light grooming, and they have a cute carrot-shaped tail. They also have dark eyes, pointy ears, and a cute black button nose.

West Highland White Terrier Temperament

Westies have a playful, friendly, and outgoing temperament. These dogs are easy to groom as well as good hiking companions.

These pups are apartment-friendly and good with other dogs and children. They have a high prey drive and easily tolerate staying alone, and are quite intelligent.

Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhound is a wolf hunting dog that also hunts down wild deer and boar. These pups are originated from Ireland, and they have a life span of around 13 years.

Irish Wolfhound Appearance

Irish Wolfhound has a life span of 6-10 years, and these pups weigh around 105 to 180 pounds having a height of 30-35 inches. These dogs are muscular but still elegantly giant breed.

They have a double coat while having a soft undercoat to keep them insulated. They do not have heavy shedding seasons and have a longer, harsher, wiry, prominent coat, especially above their eye areas.

Irish Wolfhound Temperament

Irish Wolfhound is gentle, playful, and friendly, and they are available in red, black, blue, gray, white, fawn, and cream colors. They are the most serene, kind, and calm breed and are also intelligent.

They are gentle, affectionate, and are good with other dogs and children. They love staying outdoors also love staying alone indoors.

German Wirehaired Pointer

German Wirehaired Pointer, also known as Deutscher Drahthaariger, Vorstehund, Drahthaar is originated from Germany and is a crossbreed of the Pointer and old German Pudel.

German Wirehaired Pointer Appearance

German Wirehaired Pointer has a life span of about 14-16 years, a height of 22-26 inches, and weighs around 50-70 pounds. They come in white, brown, chocolate, or liver colors.

They have patchy fur, and it is water-resistant and protects them from rough vegetation. They have shaggy eyebrows, mustaches, and beards and have short fur on their face and body. They also are one of the unique dog breeds that have webbed feet to help them swim.

German Wirehaired Pointer Temperament

German Wirehaired Pointer is a very outgoing, aloof, playful, friendly, and willful dog. They are extremely loyal, crave your attention, and will follow you like your own shadow.

These dogs are full of energy and love their fun times; they are active, loves running, are obedient, and respond well to training. They get along well with children, are playful, and have good manners but loves to chase after cats and other small animals.

Wirehaired Vizsla

Originated from Hungary, Wirehaired Vizsla are descended of Transylvanian hound and Turkish yellow dog. These dogs are also known as Drótszőrű Magyar Vizsla and Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla.

Wirehaired Vizsla Appearance

Wirehaired Vizsla females are medium-sized breeds weighing 44 to 55 pounds, while males go up to 65 pounds. They have intense looks and have focused eyes when on the hunt, and are sensitive and loving back at their home.

They have a red nose and eye skins and have long and silky ears. These red-colored pups have a height of 21 to 34 inches and a life span of 10 to 14 years.

Wirehaired Vizsla Temperament

Wirehaired Vizsla is an outgoing, loving, playful, and friendly dog and loves to follow its owners around the house to get their adoration and attention. These dogs love talking and are often moaning, whining, or making other noises.

They are hardworking, smart, great jogging partners, and have extremely high rates of energy. In addition, they are capable of hunting and can easily use their skilled nose to stay close to the hunter and have great memory-making them quite useful.

Schnauzer

Schnauzers were originally known as wirehaired pinschers and were bred as farm dogs and ratters. These pups are originated from Germany and are one of the oldest breeds present.

Schnauzer Appearance

Schnauzers are 17 to 20 inches tall, have a life span of 13 to 16 years, and weigh around 30 to 45 pounds. These pups come in black and grey colors and have long eyebrows and mustaches, making them easily recognizable.

Their ears are perked and alert, and they possess a sturdy frame and are easy to take on road trips or adventures. They require grooming sessions to maintain their fur length and regular brushing at home to keep them looking awesome.

Schnauzer Temperament

Schnauzers are willful, playful, and friendly when it comes to their temperament. They are easy to train and are highly intelligent.

These pups love to stay close with their owner and love their alone time, and are very determined dogs. However, they get along with other dogs, and they are not at all shy, making them the best watchdogs as well though they can provide you with an attitude.

Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terrier, also named Irish Blue Terrier, participated in their first show in Ireland in 1913 as Irish Terrier in Blue color and originated from Ireland. These pups are intelligent and brave.

Kerry Blue Terrier Appearance

With a weight of around 33 to 40lbs, the Kerry Blue Terrier has a height of 17.5 to 19.5 inches. They have a life span of 12 to 15 years and comes in black, blue, and gray colors.

These pups have unique and muscular bodies due to their level of exercise and are considered medium-sized dogs. In addition, the pups have deep black hair that fades over time into blue color, and these dogs have long heads, an impressive beard and dark eyes, and hair requiring professional grooming sessions every six to eight weeks.

Kerry Blue Terrier Temperament

Kerry Blue Terrier is a willful, playful, and friendly dog. They are often termed as all-around dogs because of their reputation of being strong-willed and loyal.

These dogs are filled with energy and are extremely smart, but they require a lot of attention from their owners as they can easily get bored. They love long walks and have a really short attention span, but a new and interesting activity can easily bring out their fun side.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has other names as well, like Griff, Griffon, Korthals Griffon. This dog is originated from Germany and, later on, was recognized in France. These are also said to have Dutch ancestry, but there is no proof.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Appearance

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons generally weigh around 35 to 70lbs and height of 20 to 24 inches. These pups have hallmark scruffiness, and their undercoats are extremely soft compared to their outer coats.

They get their intelligent and friendly expressive look from their brown or yellow eyes, and their hair sticks out in every direction giving them a messy look. They are present in chocolate, brown, liver, or gray colors.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Temperament

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is quite a gentle, outgoing, playful and friendly dog. They love being with people and are quite loyal to their owners.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons stay happy inactive families as they have too much energy to utilize and are always up for anything as they have easy-going personalities. They love attention and affection and can easily be a man’s best friend.

So, here we conclude all the 18 dog breeds that have wiry hair. These adorable dogs are playful, affectionate, and friendly and will steal your heart as soon as your eyes come in contact with them.