Toy Fox Terriers

Toy Fox Terriers are a smaller version of their English cousin the Smooth Fox Terrier and were developed in the early 20th century.

They 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!

Toy Fox Terrier standing in the grass looking at the camera

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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 about every two weeks to keep their skin healthy. Inspect the ears for any signs of infection and clean them 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 Concerns

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

Diseases that are associated with The TFT include:

Patella Luxation aka Slipping Kneecap: As the name implies, this involves a dislocation of the kneecap to varying degrees and is usually an inherited defect and more common in toy or smaller breeds. Responsible breeders will screen more than one generation of parents for this condition, before breeding, as well as the resulting puppies, before they are offered for purchase. An early sign of Patella Luxation is limping.

Demodectic Mange: A form of skin infection caused by the Demodex parasite and may be seen as hairless patches on the face or legs.

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

von Willebrand's Disease: A common inherited disease which causes abnormal bleeding brought about by a deficiency of proteins needed for blood clotting.

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 very attentive to dental hygiene, bone health, and skin care.

The National Breed Club recommends the following health tests:

Patella Evaluation
Thyroid Evaluation

With the benefit of good in-home care, a high quality diet and regular check-ups with a veterinarian, pet parent can expect to enjoy their Toy Fox for up to 16 years.

Dental Solution Water Additive: Fights Tartar & Plaque
No Flavor Or Odor, Vet Recommended

Activity Level of the 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 at least 30 -45 minutes for the mental and physical stimulation they need!

The TFT is very athletic, does well in dog sports which can be a fun activity for his exuberant energy.

Toy Fox Terrier playing with a toy on a brown leather couch

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.

The Toy Fox Terrier With Children

Toy Fox Terriers couldn't be a more perfect pet for some 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 older children who have been taught how to be considerate and gentle with pets.

To safeguard pets and children, always have an adult supervise activities between dogs and youngsters.

With 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.

Find a Toy Fox Terrier to Buy or Rescue

If a purebred Toy Fox Terrier puppy is in your plans, the first step is to locate a reputable breeder who is concerned with the quality and health of their puppies.

Avoid casual breeders, along with pet shops and puppy mills, because they are generally only focused on the breed's popularity and making sales.

Here are some places to begin your search: The American Kennel Club maintains a list of breeders pledged to uphold AKC-endorsed responsible breeding practices.

Available puppies can be found through the AKC Marketplace
The American Toy Fox Terrier Club maintains a state by state breeder list.
Toy Fox Terrier Rescue, lists available TFTs for re-homing

The cost to purchase a Toy Fox Terrier puppy is between $600 to $1,500. The reputation of the breeder, lineage, coat color, and health testing can have an affect on the price.

But, buying the puppy is only the beginning of expenses that will re-occur over the pup's lifetime. So take these into consideration before you commit: required dog license, vaccinations, everyday food costs, insurance, routine vet visits, training, crate, toys, grooming tools and supplies etc. It all adds up.

A word about health insurance premiums - it's more cost effective to buy insurance for a puppy before health concerns show up. It's the best hedge against the rising cost of veterinary care and unexpected issues.

Do your research before meeting a breeder so you know what to ask. You can tell a lot about a reliable breeder by how willingly they provide the parents health history and encourage you to meet them.

If you are intending to adopt a rescue, check with local shelters and breed-specific clubs where you are likely to find lovable TFTs longing for a new home.

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