If you think dogs are always smooth and fluffy, you’re wrong! Not all dogs are silky in appearance and give a velvety feel when you pat them. Some have a wire-haired appearance, and it is scruffy and shabby. Just like other dog breeds, they will also follow you wherever you go, investigate all the strange scenes, and love to play a game of fetch with you for long hours.
Their grooming needs are not extensive. Also, their coat is thick enough to protect them from harsh weather conditions and injuries. Hence, you don’t need to worry about taking them to the vet repeatedly.
These rugged dogs are great for outdoor adventures. In this article, we shall discuss some of the most loved wire-haired dog breeds that are medium in size and will make your life a lot more fun and exciting.
Wire Haired Mid-Sized Dog Breeds
1. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is one of the most sought-after gun dogs. According to the AKC, these are known as supreme gundogs due to the exceptional hunting qualities they possess.
The outer skin of this wire-haired breed is harsh, characterized by a stringy coat. It comes in shades of brown and gray, which sets it apart from other wirehaired dogs.
This coat is low-shedding and makes the lives of homeowners super easy. They are as amazing indoors as they are outside while hunting.
There is no need to groom them on a regular basis, which makes them an excellent family dog. All you need to do is to use a wide toothed comb that will remove the burr.
Weekly brushing and bathing the dog once in fifteen days is enough for this dog to stay tidy.
2. Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is known for being the biggest terrier breed out there. This is the reason it’s called the king of terriers.
This strong and confident dog has a wiry coat made of dense hair that gives it a rugged and distinctive look. It covers the entire dog’s coat, giving it a sense of uniqueness.
This dog is not only friendly and loyal, but it is also an extremely energetic dog that loves to run after unique scents. Its outgoing nature makes it a great match for owners who themselves love adventures. These independent dogs love to be a part of activities that include chasing and barking.
However, it is quite possible that your pet may act a bit finicky when it comes to eating. It may exhibit a tough attitude every time you approach it and try to feed it food. You would have to stock up on its favorite snacks to ensure it remains healthy and fit.
This terrier dog doesn’t have fur. Rather, it has hair around the body, and you need to remove dead hair on a regular basis to give it a polished and tidy look.
3. German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is another wire-haired dog breed that requires minimal grooming. Its maintenance is super-easy, and the owners find it super convenient to have them as pets.
This dog is medium-sized and comes with a wiry coat.
This coat is also a little harsh, and if you were expecting it to be fluffy when you pat its back, you would be highly disappointed. However, this sharp skin is super important and plays a significant role in keeping this dog well-protected against harsh weather conditions.
Also, this Pointer calls for minimal maintenance. A simple combing session after a week would be more than enough to give a clean appearance to the dog. If you have the budget, you can go to a professional groomer for a better result.
These are also high on energy. They are incredible partners for outdoor adventures with never-ending stamina. If you are someone who loves going on hikes, there is no companion better than this one.
Being highly intelligent, these sporting dogs are easy to train. They have an innate desire to please the owners that makes them follow commands efficiently.
4. Wirehaired Vizsla
The Wirehaired Vizsla comes with a unique appearance. It has a strong build and a sturdy bone structure. When compared to its counterpart, the shorthaired Vizsla, it appears a bit more robust.
Also, it has a wire-haired coat that sets it apart from other Vizslas. Their coats are super-dense and keep them protected while they are on their hunting missions. Originally bred in Hungary, these dogs are medium-sized and belong to the sporting group of dog breeds.
These dogs are known for their exceptional hunting skills. They are natural trackers and can not only point and hunt but also retrieve the prey in the most efficient manner possible.
This is one of the most affectionate dogs that you can ever keep as a pet. This Reddit Thread advises giving them enough opportunities for exercise, as it keeps them physically and mentally stimulated.
They make great family dogs and are exceptionally loyal to their family members.
5. Standard Schnauzer
Looking for a lively dog that is bursting with energy?
There is no option better than the Standard Schauzer.
These dogs also have a thick, wiry coat that is anything but fluffy and soft. It is super-tight in its fitting and comes in the distinct colors of pepper and salt. This gives it a sense of uniqueness. Some Schnauzers are jet black in appearance as well.
They have solid character. Super economical and easy to manage, these are some of the most sought-after dogs for first-time owners. They don’t shed a lot, and you don’t need to fret about their grooming as it is minimal.
These loving dogs love the company of both humans as well as fellow dogs. As family dogs, they don’t like to be left alone. No matter what you are doing, they would love to follow you EVERYWHERE!
Another great feature that makes these dogs worth keeping is their low tendency to bark. They are not known to be huge barkers, hence they are preferred over other dogs by families. Super loyal to the family members and easy to train, WebMD says this watchful dog is a great choice as a pet.
6. Irish Terrier
If you think this is the same breed as all other terriers, you are wrong. The Irish Terrier is a unique dog with its own distinguishing features.
This dog comes with a double coat. The inner coat is super soft and fine, while the outer one is dense. It is wiry and shaggy. It is not difficult to maintain this rough coat. All you need to do is brush it regularly and keep the hair well-trimmed!
Also, this is a hypoallergenic dog. You don’t need to worry about catching allergies around it.
When compared to other terriers like the Kerry blue terrier and Jack Russell terrier, they are more athletic and filled with energy. If you pet them, you need to ensure they get frequent opportunities to exercise for their proper physical and mental stimulation.
This dog is extremely playful and fun. With its lively aura, it adds an element of energy to your house.
7. Griffon Nivernais
The scent hound named Griffon Nivernais was originally bred in France. This is one of the most incredible hunting dogs out there.
No matter whether they have to chase small animals or go after big ones, they are absolutely fabulous at it.
Their coats are shaggy. Their unique coats are long in length and rough in appearance.
However, Royal Canin says they are amazing family pets. Despite being great hunters in the woods, at home, they are excellent watchdogs and loyal companions.
As far as its grooming is concerned, you can remain carefree, and the dog will still appear polished. Simply comb the hair thrice a week to avoid tangles, and you’ll be done! It has bushy eyebrows, so trimming them regularly will give a neat appearance to the dog.
Conclusion
Wire-haired dogs are not only sturdy and rugged, but they are also great buddies for active households. Their compact appearance makes them a great choice for families with big kids. They may not be ‘fluffy’ enough for you, but they are equally charming and gorgeous.
Their wiry coats are made to keep them warm during extreme weather and protect them when they are off on a hunting adventure. Hence, they are generally healthy dogs that will give you company for a long time. Their ownership is truly rewarding and surely wonderful.
