Toy Fox Terriers

Toy Fox Terriers are brave and alert with the fearless demeanor that is akin to the terrier, they make excellent watchdogs, but some may get overly fond of barking if left alone too much!

Training is crucial to this super intelligent, clever and active little dog if for no other reason than to protect him from his "big dog" mentality!

During training, it bears keeping in mind that TFTs have the inquisitive terrier nature and can easily become distracted from the task at hand - especially if sessions are prolonged or a bit boring. But overall they are quick to catch on, eager to please and generally very easy to train.

Their disposition is as loving, loyal and devoted as you could wish. They will eagerly enjoy both a cuddle on the couch or a spirited, energetic game.

Toy Fox Terriers are comical, playful and entertaining little dogs that have performed with great agility in the circus. They also remain quite youthful throughout their lives and are uncanny in their ability to be very in tune with their master's mood.

History of Toy Fox Terriers

Toy Fox Terriers were developed in America and resulted from the cross breeding of the Smooth Fox Terrier with various toy breeds including the Manchester Terrier, Miniature Pinscher, Italian Greyhound and Chihuahua. What resulted was a devoted and courageous dog with a charming yet feisty terrier attitude!

Also know as the American Toy Terrier, this small terrier has a smooth shiny coat and is both streamlined and well-balanced in appearance.

Characteristics of both the toy and the terrier can be seen in its general personality.

This small dog breed is one that is playful all its life and will happily lend a hand to chase down rodents if needed.

It is the devoted, spirited and playful nature which attracts many people to this breed.

Appearance and Grooming

The ideal height of Toy Fox Terriers is around 10 inches with weight ranging between 3.5 to 7 pounds. Coat colors include Black, white, and tan; white with tan; white with black; black with tan; chocolate; spots can sometimes be found on the body.

FYI, the Toy Fox Terrier is sometimes confused with the Miniature Fox Terrier whose height range is 9-12 inches and weight slightly less that the toy variety.

If you're looking for a toy dog breed that looks tidy all the time, this one fits the bill. Grooming is a snap with their smooth easy care coat and light/average amount of shedding.

A once a week groom with a brush suitable for a smooth coat, will take care of removing loose hair and give a shine.

Bathing should be done at least every two weeks to keep their skin healthy and clean the ears as needed using a gentle ear-cleaner.

They do, however, dislike being wet so keep a super-soft drying towel like the Soggy Doggy, at the ready to dry them off after bathing, or being outside on wet grass or rainy day walks etc.

toy fox terrier tan and white lying down with a red ball at his feet

Health Notes

Toy Fox Terriers are, for the most part, regarded as pretty healthy and long-lived - 12 to 16 years if he is obtained from a reputable breeder.

Diseases that are associated with The TFT include:

Patellar Luxation either congenital or from injury

Demodectic Mange

Congenital Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease which causes the hip joints to deteriorate - similar to, but not the same as Hip dysplasia

von Willebrand's Disease (vWD) which causes abnormal bleeding

Another disease - Congenital Hypothyroidism with Goiter - is considered by some experts to be quite rare in the breed, but is one that affects puppies and is usually fatal.

The Toy Fox Terrier is also prone to gum disease which if left untreated can lead to serious heart problems. They can also be allergic to beet pulp, corn and wheat.

Owners should be attentive to dental hygiene, bone health, and skin care.

Oxyfresh Pet Dental Care Solution Pet Water Additive: Fights Tartar & Plaque - So Easy, Just Add to Water! Vet Recommended

This additive has no flavor or odor so pets will easily accept it in their water bowl.

How Active is this Breed?

Toy Fox Terriers are considered to be self-exercised as a result of their indoor activity always being on the high side.

They'll happily take you for a walk though and it is in the best interest of all dogs to be walked daily for the mental and physical stimulation they need!

Ideal Living Space

This little dog is very adaptable to most any living situation and requires little space.

While they are not generally nuisance barkers, they can become overly vocal if left alone too long which could become a problem if living in an apartment or in close proximity with neighbors.

Overall the Toy Fox terriers do best in families where someone is home most of the time.

Is the Breed A Good Match For Children?

Toy Fox Terriers couldn't be a more perfect pet for kids because they live to play, are smart, clever and have lots of energy.

But, because of their small size and energy level, they do best with children over the age of six who are mature enough to be considerate and gentle with pets.

Even so, it is always a good policy to have an adult supervise activities between dogs and youngsters.

Toy Fox And Seniors?

Toy Fox Terriers make excellent pets for empty nesters or the more active seniors - being enjoyable, protective, and easy care. While they are very entertaining, more sedentary families would most likely find them a bit of a challenge.

Their high intelligence also makes them very trainable to give assistance.

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