Toy Fox Terrier

Description

The Toy Fox Terrier is a small, energetic, and intelligent toy breed that combines the playful personality of a terrier with the charm and affection of a lapdog. Standing 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall and weighing between 4 to 9 pounds, the Toy Fox Terrier is compact yet sturdy, with a fine-boned but athletic build. Its sleek, short coat comes in a variety of color combinations, including white with black, tan, or chocolate markings, giving it a polished and lively appearance.

This breed is known for its spirited and curious nature, making it an excellent companion for active families or individuals who enjoy an engaging and playful pet. Toy Fox Terriers are highly intelligent and quick learners, excelling in obedience, tricks, and canine sports like agility. Their terrier roots give them a strong prey drive, and they retain the boldness and tenacity of their larger terrier relatives, despite their small size.

In addition to their energetic side, Toy Fox Terriers are affectionate and deeply loyal, often forming strong bonds with their owners. They thrive on human companionship and enjoy being part of family activities, whether it's playing in the yard, going for a walk, or snuggling on the couch. While they are generally good with children and other pets, their small size makes them better suited for households with older children who can handle them gently.

The Toy Fox Terrier is also known for its adaptability. They do well in various living environments, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their minimal grooming needs and easy-to-care-for coat make them a low-maintenance choice for busy households. With their blend of intelligence, charm, and energy, Toy Fox Terriers are beloved companions who bring joy and liveliness to any home.

History

The history of the Toy Fox Terrier is rooted in the United States, where it was developed in the early 20th century as a smaller, more companion-oriented version of the Smooth Fox Terrier. Originally bred to serve as both working dogs and loving companions, Toy Fox Terriers were created by selectively breeding Smooth Fox Terriers with smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Italian Greyhounds. This careful breeding process aimed to reduce their size while retaining their intelligence, agility, and bold terrier spirit.

The breed’s ancestry is strongly tied to its terrier roots, particularly the Smooth Fox Terrier, which was originally bred in England as a hunting and vermin-control dog. When the Smooth Fox Terrier made its way to the United States, American breeders began to refine the breed to create a smaller version that could thrive in a variety of roles. Toy Fox Terriers were used in circuses for their intelligence and ability to perform tricks, as well as on farms to hunt rats and other small pests.

The Toy Fox Terrier was officially recognized as a distinct breed by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1936, and later by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2003. Its recognition as a toy breed highlighted its transition from a working terrier to a beloved family companion. Over the years, breeders focused on refining the Toy Fox Terrier’s size, temperament, and appearance, ensuring it retained its lively and intelligent personality while becoming more suited to modern family life.

Today, the Toy Fox Terrier is celebrated as a versatile and adaptable breed that embodies the best qualities of both terriers and toy dogs. Its journey from the farms and circuses of early America to the homes of dog enthusiasts worldwide showcases its enduring appeal and versatility. With its rich history and vibrant personality, the Toy Fox Terrier remains a cherished breed for those seeking an energetic, affectionate, and loyal companion.

Colors

•  White & Black
•  White & Chocolate
•  White & Tan
•  White Black & Tan
•  White, Chocolate & Tan