Toy Fox Terrier

The Toy Fox Terrier is a tiny terrier that was developed in America. It is sometimes mistaken for the Jack Russell or the Rat Terrier, but in truth it is much more refined and elegant. It has traditionally been used to hunt squirrels and rid the farm of rodents, and as a performer in circus acts, but is most widely seen as a loyal family companion. The Toy Fox Terrier is sturdy, compact, and athletic. Despite its size, it is never frail or delicate in appearance. Standing an average 8.5 to 11.5 inches at the shoulder, it has a well-defined musculature over medium bone. The topline is straight. The chest is deep and strong with well-sprung ribs. It has a balanced, square stature and an overall appearance of quickness and agility. This breed has a well-balanced, elegant head that is fox-like and tapers to a long muzzle; the head is held erect and proud on a long, well-muscled but graceful neck. The large eyes are bright, clear, dark and round. The ears are triangular, pointed, and are always carried erect and alert. The tail may be docked or left natural. The coat of the Toy Fox Terrier is smooth, glossy and somewhat fine. The most common coat color is predominantly white, with black, and tan facial markings on cheeks, lips, and above eyes. In many individuals, the tan on the face dulls with age as gray hairs accumulate. The body is over fifty per cent white. The coat also occurs in chocolate, white and tan, white and chocolate, and white and black. The gait of the Toy Fox Terrier is quick, smooth and flowing. The movement of this dog conveys effortlessness and endless endurance. Terriers were all bred for gameness that is, enthusiasm for the hunt -, tenacity and athleticism. The Smooth Fox Terrier is the predecessor of various types of terriers that were traditionally used on farms to hunt vermin around the barn and stable, to keep them from grain and feed supplies, and it is the direct ancestor of the Toy Fox Terrier. The Smooth Fox Terrier was first registered with the UK Kennel Club in 1876. Over time, American breeders desired to develop a smaller version of the Smooth Fox Terrier a more family-friendly dog, while still retaining its ability to flush out rodents, its gameness, and its athletic ability. In the years of the 20th century they began to crossbreed the Smooth Fox Terrier with similar but more diminutive terrier breeds and other small non-terrier types: the Manchester Terrier, the Chihuahua, the Miniature Pinscher and the Italian Greyhound. Because only the smallest Smooth Fox Terriers were selected, the crossbreeding was kept to a minimum. By the 1930's the first breed standard had been written. America's United Kennel Club accepted the breed in 1936, but it was 2003 before the American Kennel Club gave the breed full recognition, and registered it as a member of the Toy Group. The Toy Fox Terrier is an enormously active little dog; its energy level is comparable to that of the Jack Russell Terrier. Although it is able to be active indoors due to its size, it does need a good walk every day. Studies show that dogs who do not get a frequent walk outside the immediate property display more behavioral problems than dogs who do. This dog should be leashed when outside a fenced area; although it is small it can move very fast and will quickly dart away from the owner in pursuit of something interesting. The coat of the Toy Fox Terrier needs minimal care. A brushing a few times a week with a medium to stiff-bristled brush will rid the coat of any dead fur, keep it clean and free of parasites, and keep the skin conditioned and healthy. A hound glove also works well on the coat of this breed. The Toy Fox Terrier sheds only moderately year round. This breed has little body fat and cannot tolerate extreme heat or cold. In hot, humid weather it should be provided with shade and fresh cool water at all times and be monitored for signs of sunstroke. In cold weather it should not be put outside without a coat. The Toy Fox Terrier has naturally strong instincts for digging; it has centuries of breeding as a ratter in its blood. When bored or frustrated, this breed will resort to destructive digging, chewing and obsessive barking. But when well exercised and receiving adequate mental stimulation it is a relatively quiet breed for a terrier. The Toy Fox Terrier tends to be a very healthy breed. Occasionally, Legg-Perthes Disease might be seen, a condition where the hip joint deteriorates. Also, some individuals display Von Willebrand's Disease, a type of hemophilia. Owners should monitor this breed for signs of skin allergies which may occur from diet, or from allergens in the lawn or carpet. As with many small dogs, it is important not to overfeed this breed, because allowing obesity can result in heart disease, diabetes and joint problems. This dog is very affectionate with the family and tolerates children very well. It is perhaps not suitable for very young children because their activity level can easily result in injury to this tiny dog; play between this breed and children should always be monitored due to the dog's size. The Toy Fox Terrier is tolerant of other dogs, and of the household cat. Caution should be used when introducing small household pets such as hamsters or mice; this breed's instinct is to dispose of these animals, and time and patience must be taken to socialize the dog to these. The Toy Fox Terrier has a busy mind and enjoys interaction with the family. It is very fond of toys such as balls and squeaky toys. This dog loves to play and displays an amazing amount of stamina. Owners of this breed may want to participate with their dog in agility competition.

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