Wirehair Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wirehair
[ˈwaɪəˌhɛər ]
Definition
dog breed
Wirehair refers to a type of dog coat characterized by its rough, dense, and wiry texture. This coat type is commonly found in various dog breeds, such as the Wirehaired Fox Terrier and the German Wirehaired Pointer, providing protection against harsh weather and rough terrain.
Synonyms
rough coat, textured fur, wiry coat.
Examples of usage
- The Wirehair breed excels in hunting due to its tough exterior.
- Her Wirehair Terrier is known for its playful nature.
- Dogs with a wirehair coat often require regular grooming.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Breeds
- Popular wirehaired breeds include the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, known for its versatility in hunting.
- The Airedale Terrier, the largest of the terrier breeds, is also known for its persistent and loyal nature, paired with its distinctive wire coat.
- Many wirehaired dogs are bred specifically for their hunting abilities and are prized for their endurance and strong scent-tracking skills.
Care and Grooming
- Wirehair dogs require specialized grooming to maintain their shaggy look, often needing hand-stripping instead of standard clipping.
- Regular grooming not only keeps their appearance neat but helps prevent matting and skin issues that can arise from their unique coat texture.
- Bathing wirehair breeds too often can strip the coat of necessary oils, so it is usually recommended to bathe them less frequently.
Cultural Significance
- Wirehaired breeds often appear in popular media, including movies and shows where their rugged look complements adventurous roles.
- These dogs are commonly featured in art and literature, symbolizing loyalty and intelligence in various cultures.
- Several dog shows celebrate wirehaired breeds, where groomers compete to showcase the best examples of this distinctive coat.
Behavioral Traits
- Typically, wirehaired breeds are known for their energetic, playful dispositions, making them great family pets.
- Their intelligence and problem-solving abilities often require consistent training and mental stimulation to keep them engaged.
- Many wirehair dogs exhibit strong hunting instincts, which means they may have a tendency to chase small animals if not trained properly.
Origin of 'wirehair'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'wirehair' comes from the words 'wire', describing the coarse texture, and 'hair', referring to the fur.
- Wirehaired breeds are often named after their origins, indicating where they were first developed, such as the 'Wirehaired Fox Terrier'.
- The use of 'wirehair' in dog names began in the late 19th century, reflecting the trend of distinguishing dog breeds by their coats.
The term "wirehair" is derived from the words "wire" and "hair," indicating the distinctive coating of certain dog breeds. It first emerged in the early 20th century, gaining popularity as breeders sought to develop dogs that could withstand rough environments while still possessing a friendly demeanor. The wirehair coat offers both insulation and protection, making these dogs highly functional in the field as hunting companions. Over time, several breeds were officially categorized under the wirehair classification, each with its unique set of characteristics, but all sharing the common feature of a wiry fur texture. As dog enthusiasts and breeders developed this trait, it became an essential aspect of breed standards, often celebrated in dog shows and competitions.