Dog Breed Guide

Toy Fox Terrier

Profile

Size

Extra Small

Country of origin

United States

Origin

20th century

Bred for

Ratting, Companion

Height

21.5 - 29cm (8 - 11in)

Weight

1.5 - 3.2kg (3 - 7lb)

Life span

13 - 15 years

A toy dog with a smooth, short coat that looks like a miniature Smooth Fox Terrier. The body is mostly white, with black and tan or tan markings centered on the head. Its erect ears and keen expression are its hallmarks.

Small as it is, it is every inch a terrier: bright, lively, curious and brave. At the same time it has a toy dog's affectionate side and loves relaxing in its family's laps. It is smart and good at learning tricks.

Its coat is very easy to care for. Its small size suits indoor life, but it has plenty of energy, so daily walks and play are a must. It feels the cold.

Good to know

The breed arose on American farms in the early 20th century. It was created by crossing especially small Smooth Fox Terrier puppies with small breeds such as the Chihuahua and the Italian Greyhound. The toy blood is said to have given it a calmer, easier temperament while keeping the terrier's courage.

On the farm it was valued both as an excellent ratter that kept the barns free of rats and as a playmate for the children. Small enough to live in the house yet able to do a real job, it was the best of both worlds.

The UKC, another American registry, recognized it in 1936, but the American Kennel Club recognized it only in 2003, relatively recently. It is also called the American Toy Terrier.