Dogs have a wide variety of coat types: long, short, smooth, curly, single, double, hairless, corded, and wiry.
Each coat type has its merits and was developed to serve a specific purpose, but the wiry coat is perhaps the least well known and most misunderstood.
Why do some dogs have wiry hair? A wire coat was intentionally bred into some breeds to provide weather protection, repel dirt, and allow the dogs to move through underbrush without the coat being snagged. This coat requires stripping, or pulling out the outer coat, to maintain correct texture and function.
As you learn more about the wire-hair coat and take a look at some of the more popular breeds that have this protective fur type, you’ll be impressed by its amazing qualities and may decide that it’s the most functional coat of all.
But on the same token, they’re not “hypoallergenic” or “non-shedding” as some dogs are considered to be, such as the Irish Water Spaniel or Poodle. So if this is what you’re looking for, the GWP isn’t for you. 3/5 Grooming Effort
But this is really only needed for dogs entering the show ring, and either way is best done by a professional groomer. At least for the first time, so they can show you properly how it’s done.
Getting the shedding under control isn’t difficult though, it mostly comes down to proper grooming. So let’s take a closer look at how much GWPs shed and what you can do about it.
And his coat is well suited to this task. The GWP’s outer coat is one to two inches in length, harsh and wiry. Which, together with his dense undercoat, makes him virtually weatherproof. So he’s not a high maintenance breed by any means.
For general grooming maintenance, brushing his coat once per week with a slicker brush and metal comb will keep his coat in good order.
How Much Do Wirehaired Griffons Shed?
Wirehaired Griffons don’t shed as much as an average dog. They will have a slight amount of shedding all-year-round and during the early spring and fall seasons, they will shed more for a few weeks to change the winter coat or the summer coat.
The Wirehaired Griffon dog is a great choice if you’re looking for a smaller medium-sized dog that doesn’t shed too much.
They are often referred to as a non-shedding breed because they are great for people with allergies. They require some grooming because their curly hair can tangle up.
So you need to brush the knots out of the hair and that would also get rid of the loose hair and reduce the shedding from the fur.
Jack Russell Terrier – Rough or Broken
Although not recognized by the AKC, Jack Russell Terrier breeders have worked hard in creating a stable temperament in the breed.
These little dogs are feisty, fearless, loyal, and seemingly always in motion.
Hunters at heart, this breed has a high prey drive and is curious, lively, independent, and quite intelligent.
Jack Russells may do well with older kids but are not known for being overly tolerant with young children.
Also, same-sex aggression can be a problem and care should always be taken when introducing a Jack to another dog.
Jack Russell Terriers average between 10 and 15 inches tall and weigh 13 to 18 pounds.
By about 9 months of age, a Jack Russell puppy is nearly done growing and will have reached his approximate final height and be close to his adult weight as well.
He may however continue to “fill out” until his first birthday.
A Jack Russell Terrier should be more than 50% white with markings of tan, black, or brown over the rest of the body.
The brown and tan colors can vary significantly with numerous shades extending the color options somewhat.
While brindle markings and tricolors are possible, they are not considered acceptable by the official breed standards.
A quick walk around the block won’t be nearly enough for a healthy Jack Russell Terrier.
This breed was designed to be an active, working dog, and to see one in motion will leave you with no doubt that they are high energy.
Two hours of vigorous exercise might be enough to satisfy some Jacks, though others will still be raring to go even after a long period of physical activity.
These dogs will be happiest when “employed” and are able to exert their energy while doing their “job.”
Training a Jack Russell Terrier is certainly possible (remember Eddie from Frasier?) but will take commitment, dedication, and lots of patience on your part.
Even a well-trained Jack can’t be counted on to be 100% reliable as they are often easily distracted and driven by their instincts.
Prices for a Jack Russell Terrier vary a good bit but tend to be within the $1,000 to $2,000 range.
Look for a breeder who is devoted to improving the breed, retaining the hunting traits Jacks were originally bred to have, producing correct conformation, and is well versed in all aspects of the breed, including temperament quirks and grooming.
FAQ
Do wirehaired dogs shed a lot?
Are wirehaired dogs better for allergies?