Wire Fox Terrier vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison

Wire Fox Terrier vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed ComparisonFormosan Mountain Dog is originated from Taiwan but Wire Fox Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Formosan Mountain Dog may grow 13 cm / 6 inches higher than Wire Fox Terrier. Formosan Mountain Dog may weigh 9 kg / 20 pounds more than Wire Fox Terrier. Both Formosan Mountain Dog and Wire Fox Terrier has almost same life span. Formosan Mountain Dog may have more litter size than Wire Fox Terrier. Formosan Mountain Dog requires Low Maintenance. But Wire Fox Terrier requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Sporting dog
Working dog
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Taiwan
United Kingdom
Height Male:
48 - 52 cm
18 - 21 inches
35 - 39 cm
13 - 16 inches
Height Female:
43 - 47 cm
16 - 19 inches
35 - 39 cm
13 - 16 inches
Weight Male:
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
7 - 9 kg
15 - 20 pounds
Weight Female:
12 - 16 kg
26 - 36 pounds
7 - 9 kg
15 - 20 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
10 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
10 - 13
2 - 6
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Taiwan Canis, Taiwanese Dog, Taiwanese Aboriginal Dog, Native Formosan Dog, Taiwanese Native Dog, Taiwanese Mountain Dog, National Dog Takasago Dog , and Taiwanese Dog., Formosan Hunting Dog, Formosan, Native Taiwanese Dog, Formosan Aboriginal Dog, Formosan Dog, Taiwanse Canis. Formosan Native Dog
None
Colors Available:
earthly yellow, Black, or yellow
black and tan, White
Coat:
smooth and oily
Medium length, wiry
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Energetic, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

formosan mountain dogThe Formosan Mountain Dog is most often known as the Taiwan dog and it is a landrace indigenous to Taiwan. It is a small to medium breed of dog that was semi-wild at one time. The colonialization of Taiwan and other foreigners help to fully domesticate the Formosan Mountain Dog. They were found to be very trainable and uniquely suited for the terrain around Taiwan. The dogs were easy to train and now serve as hunting dogs, stunt dogs, guard dogs, rescue dogs, therapy dog and personal companions. There are three types of Formosans two smaller types and one medium. However, the original pure Formosan Mountain Dog is getting close to extinction again because the government and people have provided no protection or conservation efforts for them. These dogs have been living in Taiwan in the mountains and were called Formosan Mountain Dogs when Taiwan was known as Formosa. They come from a line of Southeast Asian hunting/gun dogs and they are considered ‘rare’ now.

According to historian Dr. Sung Yung-yi, the breed went through 4 major catastrophes that affected their development. The first of these was the Dutch Establishment in 1624. The Dutch colonized Taiwan and imported both people and dogs. The dog they brought in was called the Flying Dog and was either Greyhound or Pointer. Eventually, the Flying Dog bred with the Formosan Mountain Dog. This along with the slaughter of dogs belonging to the indigenous people by the government, starting the decline of the original Taiwan dog.

In 1895, it was the Japanese acquiring Taiwan following the First Sino-Japanese War. The Japanese bred the Formosan Mountain Dog extensively with the own Japanese dogs. This further diluted the line and authenticity of Taiwan dogs.

This was followed by World War II when German Shepherds traveled with the US Army and they cross-bred with the Formosan. This was the third major dilution of the Formosan Mountain dog line. At the same time, the Japanese government considered the Formosan Mountain Dog a sanitation threat and barbaric. They massacred them in large numbers in the name of sanitation.

The fourth and final dilution took place during the Kuomintang Era beginning in 1945 with the arrival of the Chinese Nationalist Party. They brought with them the culture of eating dogs. During this time the economy of Taiwan took off and business people began to import their own foreign dogs that were high priced purebreds. These dogs bred with the Formosan and other Formosans were just abandoned to die. The ranks of the breed became very thin indeed. Today’s pure Formosan is highly valuable and extremely rare. Because of all the crossbreeding over the centuries, today’s purebred Formosan Mountain Dog is very different from the Taiwan dog of old. Today’s Formosan is loved all over the island and is a companion and watchdog.

Today there is an effort by Taiwanese ecologists to put together a research project that would study and preserve the Formosan in its indigenous form. Dr. Yung-yi led this effort. He located only 46 dogs with a pure pedigree, 21 females and 25 males. They let the Food and Agricultural of the United Nations know and the dogs were labeled close to extinction. Reproducing from the indigenous dogs to purify and increase the breed was the goal. The government was not very supportive.

Today the Royal Air Force is looking at the Formosan Dog to use for military security. They are currently only using German Shepherds and needed another choice. It was decided that the Formosan Mountain Dog had a better sense of smell, dexterity, alertness, and hearing as well as better padding on their paws.

Through these efforts and those of foundation stock breeders and owners, the Formosan Mountain Dog in its indigenous form was brought back. Some call this dog a purebred Formosan while others consider it a new type. Standards were presented to the FCI for registrations as a purebred. This debate continues today

wire fox terrierThe wire fox terrier was developed in England by fox hunting enthusiasts. They wanted a feisty dog that could chase foxes down their burrows.

It is thought that the dog descended from the rough-coated black and tan working terriers of Wales.

The dog wasn’t popular as a pet until the 1930s when its appearance in certain films gave it a popularity-boost.

Description

formosan mountain dog puppy - descriptionThe Formosan Mountain Dog that was seen during Dr. Sung Yung-yi’s research is a medium-sized dog, athletic and fit. It has a deep chest and a slim waist. The ears are half-covered, the nose is black and there is a coating of black on the tongue. This black tongue is the most distinguishing attribute of the Formosan Mountain Dog. The breed has a strong jaw, the skull that is just slightly longer than the muzzle, which is flat and tapered, triangle face and almond eyes. They have a thick coat and upright, curved tail.

The dogs are known to be extremely agile with an ability to hop that is rare in dogs but helps when hunting animals like rats. The Formosan Mountain Dogs hunted in packs with each dog attacking the prey with one bite until it was too exhausted to fight them off any longer.

wire fox terrier puppy - descriptionThe Wire Fox Terrier is a sturdy, medium-sized dog that weighs between 7 and 9kg and stands between 35 and 39cm at the withers.

The dog’s double coat is essentially white with brown or tan markings and can be medium length and wiry, tending to be curly too.

He is a light shedder. The face is long, without much shape and eyes appear to be fairly close together. The ears are fairly small and they fold forward toward the cheeks. The tail is docked and is held high.

Temperament:

This really is an intelligent dog and can’t tolerate being bored. It’s essentially a companion dog too and doesn't want to be separated from his owners for too long.

As a companion dog he is going to want a lot of attention. They’re independent and strong-willed and will benefit from training and socialization.

They are great around children but they do need to be supervised as they are inclined to nip, especially when highly excited. They also bark quite a bit and the owner might have to do something to stop this yapping, especially when the dog is bored.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

formosan mountain dog dog - characteristicsThe Formosan Mountain Dog is very child-friendly. He is affectionate and loyal to his family and protective of his children.

Special talents

He is intelligent and has exceptional hunting skills. He is a good guard dog due to his alertness, but they can be fear-aggressive.

Adaptability

He is very adaptable to living in any location as long as there is somewhere for him to get adequate exercise. He is friendly to people and animals.

Learning ability

He is intelligent and learns quickly.

wire fox terrier dog - characteristicsThe Wire Fox Terrier is such a canine friend, ready to be with you no matter what you’re doing. They are social dogs and love being involved with their human companions.

He is independent but still social and enthusiastic and you can describe him as the ideal family dog.

He is a bundle of energy, and when you bring him into your home, you’re going to get a family member who is playful, joyful, loving and loyal – your very best friend.

Health Problems

formosan mountain dog puppies - health problemsBecause there have not been any studies done on the health of the Formosan Mountain Dog, there is not a lot known about any inherent or genetic health issues. It would seem that some bloodlines are healthy, and others have some serious issues. Especially because there are no studies, it is important for breeders to test for eye issues and skeletal issues through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and the Canine Eye Registration Foundation.

Some of the health issues the Formosan Mountain Dog might be susceptible to.

  1. Dysplasia: Hip and/or Elbow
  2. Can cause lameness and/or arthritis
  3. Luxating Patella
  4. Floating or dislocated kneecap
  5. PRA – Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  6. Degeneration of the retina – causes blindness
  7. Cataracts
  8. Can be removed/causes sight issues or blindness
  9. Mange Demodex/Demodicosis/Demodectic
  10. Caused by mites and can be treated

wire fox terrier puppies - health problemsThese are healthy dogs, and if you get your dog from a responsible breeder, he will have been checked for health conditions such as cataracts, hip dysplasia, and luxating patellas.

Cataracts:

Cataracts are a problem with the lens of the eye. The lens focuses light and it should be crystal clear. A cataract obscures vision. Sometimes the cataract can be very small but other times it can grow to the size of the lens and then it can cause blindness.

Most times, dogs with cataracts can still see, and even though a dog may experience some confusion with a cataract, they don’t hurt the dog. They don’t go away on their own and will need to be removed surgically. If you see your dog has a cataract, consult your vet to get their opinion on the matter.

Allergies:

Your dog may be licking and scratching a lot and it may just be that your dog has a frustrating and irritating skin problem. This itching isn’t a disease but rather a cause of some disease.

There could be so many things that are causing your pet to scratch and it could be a skin disease, parasites or allergies. It can be terrible seeing the frustration it causes your pet and he will certainly need to see the vet.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

formosan mountain dog dogs - caringFeed a high-quality puppy food for medium size dogs at the rate of a ¼ cup twice a day until 8 months then ½ to ¾ twice a day until 12-16 months.

Feeding the adult

1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food split into 2 meals per day.

Points for Good Health

Generally healthy breed. Keep clean and watch for mites.

Games and Exercises

This is an energetic breed and he needs a lot of exercise. He must have at least an hour of exercise daily but the more, the better. He loves swimming and jogging with his people. He’s athletic, smart and agile. He does well with field trials, tracking, agility, and obedience.

Grooming:

wire fox terrier dogs - caringThis dog will need to be brushed regularly. Some people hand-strip their dogs. Most people prefer just to take their pets to a professional groomer to have them professionally clipped. The groomers will simultaneously clip his nails, clean the inside of his ears and also clean his teeth.

Diet:

The Wire Fox Terrier will expect you to supply him with high-quality dog food if you opt to use commercially manufactured dog food. These foods can be wonderfully convenient but you want the food to be packed with natural ingredients and be high in vitamins and minerals.

Any diet should also be appropriate to the dog’s age, his size, and his activity levels. Some homemade foods can also be a treat but this needs to be simple with no heavy spicing. Things such as boiled chicken, brown rice and vegetables can be an excellent choice.

Cool, fresh water should be available at all times.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Formosan Mountain Dog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Formosan Mountain Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Formosan Mountain Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Formosan Mountain Dog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Formosan Mountain Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Formosan Mountain Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Wire Fox Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Wire Fox Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Wire Fox Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Wire Fox Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Wire Fox Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Wire Fox Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Wire Fox Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Wire Fox Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Wire Fox Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Wire Fox Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Wire Fox Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Wire Fox Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Wire Fox Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Wire Fox Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Wire Fox Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Wire Fox Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Wire Fox Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Wire Fox Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Wire Fox Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Wire Fox Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Wire Fox Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Wire Fox Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Wire Fox Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Wire Fox Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Wire Fox Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison