Description
The Toy Fox Terrier is also known as the American Toy Terrier or Amertoy. The tail is docked short and carried high. The eyes are dark and round. The ears are v-shaped and erect. A definite stop separates the domed skull from the small narrow muzzle. The hair is short and thick. The coat is white with black and tan or tan markings. Other colors do occur. The Toy Fox Terrier was originally bred and developed in the United States in the early 1900's. The major bloodlines used to start the breed were from the Smooth Fox Terrier crossed with several other toy breeds and small types of dogs. Selection of the smallest of the Smooth Fox Terriers for early breeding meant that only a small amount of cross breeding was required to develop the Toy Fox Terrier breed.
Temperament
The Toy Fox Terrier may be physically small, but this is a robust little terrier that retains all the passion of its Fox Terrier ancestors. This breed thinks he is big! The breed is tough and bright, but stubborn. Curious and active, the Toy Fox Terrier keeps its young spirit throughout its life. They are intelligent, loving, sensitive and pleasant. It is very alert, inquisitive and quick. This is a companion dog that has not forgotten its ancient terrier instincts, and will therefore fight mice and small animals. This athletic little dog loves the hunt. Affectionate and very loyal. This breed is an exceptionally intelligent, trainable dog. Some have been trained to assist handicapped people around the home. It has proven to be an excellent hearing dog for the deaf. It can be trained to take its human companion to the sources of sounds, such as the telephone. The Toy Fox Terrier I met was not a yapper. His owner said he only barked when necessary. He was friendly with children, but I would not recommended him as a small child companion due to its tiny, fragile size. This happy dog is sure to bring smiles to the faces of nearly all who meet it, due to its energetic and forever youthful antics.
The Toy Fox Terrier has a true terrier personality and temperament. They are happy, lively and energetic dogs that are always interested in what the family is doing. The Toy Fox Terrier loves to be in the center of the action but they are also more affectionate than many of the terriers and enjoy just sitting with their owners. The Toy Fox Terrier will be very puppyish in his or her behavior, even well into the dog's senior years. They are highly intelligent and quickly learn an amazing number of words, commands and signals. They can be very curious dogs and will often find something to play with or entertain themselves if left alone for longer periods of time. When provided with toys and time to exercise the Toy Fox Terrier can tolerate being left at home during the day, providing they have lots of attention and interaction with the family in the evenings.
Height, Weight
Height: about 10 inches (25 cm.)
Weight: 3.5-7 pounds (1.5-3 kg.)
Health Problems
This is a fairly healthy breed; however, some are prone to legg calve perthes and stifle, which are typical toy problems. Some dogs are allergic to beet pulp (this is fairly common). Also corn, and wheat.
Living Conditions
The Toy Fox Terrier is good for apartment life. It is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. It cannot tolerate cold weather. They should wear a coat in the winter to help keep it warm.
Exercise
These are active little dogs, who need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, it will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard.
Life Expectancy
About 13-14 years.
Grooming
The Toy Fox Terrier is easy to groom. Occasionally comb and brush the smooth coat. Keep the nails short. This breed is a light shedder.
Origin
The Toy Fox Terrier was developed in the USA in the 1930's. It is directly descended from the Smooth Fox Terrier, whose standard dates from 1876. It was miniaturized in the United States through careful breeding. Crosses with English Toy Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Italian Greyhounds have refined its features, and calmed its disposition. Its first use was hunting rats. It is currently seeking AKC recognition.
Group
Terrier
