The Toy that is a Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier was developed in the United States as a desire to create a smaller Smooth Fox Terrier. Both a toy as well as a terrier, the Toy Fox Terrier can b
e both a companion and a working dog.
Toy Fox Terriers stand at about 10 inches, and weigh between 4-7 pounds. They are a small breed, but yet distinctly terrier in appearance. Their ears are erect and V-shaped, while their tails are customarily docked. The coat is short and thick, it is white with either black and tan, or only tan markings. Rarely other colors will appear on the Toy Fox Terrier.
The Toy Fox Terrier was developed in the 1930s, its primary ancestor the Smooth Fox Terrier. Through careful breeding that included the English Toy Terrier, Chihuahua, and Italian Greyhound the breed was developed at a smaller size, and these other breeds calmed its disposition as well. First used for hunting vermin, this little dog quickly found its way into homes as a companion as well. Toy Fox Terriers were recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1936 and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2000.
Although the Toy Fox Terrier is small it has not forgot its terrier ancestors or instincts. They are tough, intelligent, and yet love human companionship. They are not recommended for small children because of their size, however they do well with ones that are older. It loves to hunt if it gets the chance, and therefore does not do well in households with small animals. Toy Fox Terriers are easy to train, even if they have a bit of terrier stubbornness.
In general the Toy Fox Terrier is a healthy breed, but they are prone to legg calve perthes and stifle, both common toy problems. Life expectancy of the Toy Fox Terrier is 13-14 years, and known to stay young throughout its life.
