Toy Fox Terrier
Also known as: American Toy Terrier Amertoy
The Toy Fox Terrier is a small, energetic dog breed originating from the United States. The Toy Fox Terrier comes from America. Individual Toy Fox Terriers vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- America
- Other names
- American Toy Terrier Amertoy
About the Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier is a small, energetic dog breed originating from the United States. Known for its friendly and outgoing personality, it makes a great companion for families.
Overview
The Toy Fox Terrier is a small terrier breed of dog , directly descended from the larger Smooth Fox Terrier but since 1936, it has been registered in the United States with the UKC as a separate breed.
Health
A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 12.9 years from a sample of 52 deaths for the breed compared to an average of 12.7 for purebreeds and 12 for crossbreeds . Toy Fox Terriers, like other toy breeds are prone to patellar luxation (slipped stifle), Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome and von Willebrand disease .
History
The Toy Fox Terrier is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 1900s. It has historically been both a farm dog and a household pet due to their skills at catching rodents. This breed has been commonly crossed with other breeds in the past, such as the Toy Manchester Terrier , the Chihuahua , and the Italian Greyhound . 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 without crosses to other toy breeds such as Manchester Terrier and Chihuahua resulted in the Toy Fox Terrier of today. 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 2003 ( Toy Group). Before 1936, Toy Fox Terriers were registered under Smooth Fox Terriers in the UKC until they were granted their own name and breed status.
Appearance
Toy Fox Terriers are small dogs with a muscular and athletic appearance. Notable characteristic traits include a short glossy and predominantly white coat, coupled with a predominantly solid head, and a short, high-set tail. The breed has been deemed elegant and graceful with V-shaped ears and large eyes. The tail can be short and straight or long and shiny, and breeders often shorten the tail a few days after birth by clipping it about three-fifths of the way from the tip (at the third or fourth joint). The coat is short, fine, and glossy in black with tan, with areas of tan on the face; there are two other variants, one with ''chocolate'' replacing the black in areas (the UKC does not allow this variant to be shown), another which is all white with tan and no black at all, and one which is white with black markings and no tan accents. These variants are often known as ''Tri-Color'', ''Chocolate'', and ''White and Tan'', and ''White and Black" respectively. The height ranges from 8.5–11.5 inches at the shoulder (21.5–29.2 cm) and weight from 3.5–9 kg.
Temperament
Toy Fox Terriers were used commonly in circus shows by clowns, and they are said to make great companions for owners with a good sense of humor. As a terrier breed, they are often active, though perhaps not as active as the Jack Russell Terrier , and are said to be well suited for older owners. They are quite trainable and often cited as making wonderful companions for people with disabilities. They are also very lovable and loyal to their owners. In addition, dogs of this breed tend not to bark very much if they are trained well.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Toy Fox Terrier?
The Toy Fox Terrier is a small, energetic dog breed weighing 3-7 pounds and standing 10 inches tall. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Their friendly, outgoing personalities make them excellent companions. They are intelligent and active, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Is the Toy Fox Terrier a good family dog?
Toy Fox Terriers can make good family pets for families with older children, as they are generally gentle and affectionate. However, their small size and high energy levels may not make them suitable for very young children. They require regular exercise and attention, and may not be the best fit for busy families or those with very young children.
What health problems do Toy Fox Terriers have?
Toy Fox Terriers are prone to several health issues, including patellar luxation, Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome, and von Willebrand disease. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify these conditions early on. Responsible breeding practices and proper care can also help minimize the risk of these health problems.
How much does a Toy Fox Terrier puppy cost?
The cost of a Toy Fox Terrier puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a Toy Fox Terrier puppy can cost between $600 and $1,200. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider the long-term costs of owning a dog, including food, veterinary care, and supplies.
Where do Toy Fox Terriers come from?
The Toy Fox Terrier comes from America. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Toy Fox Terrier, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.