The Toy Fox Terrier is a small terrier breed of dog, directly descended from the larger Fox Terrier but considered a separate breed.

(Alternative names: American Toy Terrier, Amertoy)

Temperament

The Toy Fox Terrier is an intelligent, bold and athletic little dog. Although lithe, it is hardy and well balanced. Toy Fox Terriers are said to love human company. A related breed is the Miniature Fox Terrier, which was developed along similar lines in Australia.

Toy Fox Terriers, like many active and intelligent breeds, can learn to respond to many words. Toy Fox Terriers were used commonly in circus shows by clowns so they make great companions for owners with a good sense of humor.

History

Some Toy Fox Terrier breeders can trace their dogs’ lineage back to a Smooth Fox Terrier called “Foiler”, the first fox terrier registered by the Kennel Club in Britain, circa 1875-76. It is believed that careful breeding from smaller Smooth Fox Terriers with outcrosses to other toy breeds such as Manchester Terrier and Chihuahua resulted in the Toy Fox Terrier of today. Toy Fox Terriers are also called American Toy Terriers or Amertoys.

Toy Fox Terriers were recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1936 and placed in the Terrier Group, and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in July 2000 (Toy Group).

Appearance

It is a small dog with a muscular and athletic appearance. The dog is elegant and graful with v-shaped ears and large eyes. The tail can be short and straight. The coat is short, fine, and glossy in white with black or tan. The average height is about 10 inches and weight is 3.5-7 pounds.

Health Problems

This breed is fairly healthy. However, some are prone to legg calve perthes and stifle, which are typical Toy problems. Some dogs are allergic to beet pulp, corn, and wheat.

Living Conditions

It is good for apartment life. It is active indoors and will do without a yard. It cannot tolerate cold weather.

Grooming, Exercise, and Life Expectancy

Toy Fox Terriers are very active dogs. They will normally take care of their own exercise needs.

The life expectancy is about 13-14 years.

The Toy Fox Terrier is easy to groom. Sometimes, it is necessary to comb and brush the coat. Keep the nails short. It is a light shedder.

See also

Fox Terrier, for additional details on history, genetics, coat color, and so on.