Did you know that the toy fox terrier owes their ancestry to smooth fox terriers? But as their name suggests, these pups are tiny in comparison.
Another difference between the two dogs is the toy fox terrier isn’t as active as the former. Like most toy breeds, this trait makes them great companions for first-time owners and older people. Their loyal and loving nature helped them earn popularity as lapdogs, as they would happily entertain their owners.
Though the mini fox dog was used for hunting small game-like squirrels, they also served a different purpose. Thanks to their playfulness and trainability, these intelligent dogs made appearances in circus acts. So if you want a terrier dog with a great personality, these pups will keep you happy!
Appearance
What Does a Toy Fox Terrier Look Like?
Their name, toy fox terrier, is the first tell-tale sign that these dogs are tiny. But the question that most newbie owners want answered is, “How big do fox terriers get?” A full-grown pup should stand at about 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall, although 9-11 inches is preferred. On the weighing scale, the breed ranges from 3.5 to 7 pounds.
One of the first things you’ll note about the mini foxie is its small athletic body. Its ears are ever pointing up, and its black eyes are always gleaming with playfulness. In fact, some breeders even say that the traits mentioned above give the idea that they are ready for anything. However, this shouldn’t be surprising as most terrier breeds always look alert.
Toy fox terrier colors come in several combinations: tricolor; white, chocolate, tan; and white and black. Their coats should be short, fine, and smooth, but with a slight elongation at the ruff.
Temperament
Toy breed dogs are always exciting to see as they come with a set of mixed characteristics from their parents. A toy fox terrier puppy, for instance, gets the best of the terrier and toy worlds. Its energetic and brave traits come from the terrier side, which explains why your dog is always up and down. It’s also essential to recall that this dog’s ancestors would spend their days chasing after rodents on the farms.
On the other hand, mini fox terrier puppies get their playfulness, humor, and affectionate personalities from the toy world. And this is why your furry friend will happily sit on your lap. However, their loyalty makes them very wary of strangers. As such, pet owners are encouraged to socialize their terriers from a young age. This way, they’ll grow into friendly and welcoming family dogs.
Care
How to Groom a Toy Fox Terrier
As a new dog owner, it’s crucial to find out how much work you’ll need to put into grooming. But thankfully, toy fox terriers are low-maintenance dogs. Their short coats need minimal care as they rarely shed.
When shedding happens, breeders suggest using a small shedding comb or glove to stop fur from getting on your furniture. You’ll only need to wash your dogs now and then, but especially after playing around in the mud. Brushing their coats once every week should keep them tidy.
How to Train a Toy Fox Terrier
When it comes to training dogs, it’s best to start early. The goal is to help them become well-behaved around you, your family, and your guests. Luckily, miniature fox terriers are willing to learn and eager to please their owners.
In this case, puppy training involves teaching your furry companion how to go outside or use a potty pad indoors. The latter is ideal, especially during freezing weather and for nomadic pet owners who love traveling with their dogs.
How Much Exercise Does a Toy Fox Terrier Need?
In spite of their small size, TFTs are not like most toy breeds. They have dual personalities, which allow them to comfortably sit on your laps and run around the compound soon after.
However, to keep your mini fox happy, it’s best to meet their exercise needs as often as possible. This entails active playtime, taking them for a walk, and running around the compound.
Feeding
A full-grown toy fox terrier should eat about ¼ to ½ cup of high-quality dry dog food per day. However, this meal should be divided into two portions.
Health
The toy fox terrier is generally a healthy breed. However, these pups do suffer some health conditions, as do most dogs. While some of the problems mentioned below may not affect all TFTs, it’s essential to note them.
One of the biggest toy fox terrier health problems is obesity. And this explains why it’s essential to take your pup out for walks and give them a nutritious diet. Other conditions to watch out for are patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap) and eye disease. So when buying a dog, it’s best to engage a professional breeder who should provide you with health clearances.
History
Your baby toy fox terrier is a mix of smooth fox terriers with Chihuahuas and Italian greyhounds. Historically, the smooth fox terrier dates back to the 1800s when breeders used them for hunting vermin and fox. In fact, the breed owes the fox name to their hunting history.
Smooth fox terriers, which are larger, stand taller than toy breeds at 15-17 inches and weigh 28 pounds. Their birth parents are the extinct Old English terriers, bull terriers, smooth-coated black and tan terriers, greyhounds, and beagles.
At the onset of the 20th century, American breeders began developing the cheerful toy fox terrier. They picked the small-sized SFT pups (weighing about 7 to 20 pounds) and mixed them with Chihuahuas and Italian greyhounds. The result was an intelligent, feisty, and playful dog – the popular toy fox terrier.
Fun Facts
- One of the most exciting circus acts by the TFT breed was walking on a tightrope. This trick was possible thanks to their small, agile bodies.
- Did you know that toy fox terriers also go by the name “Amertoy?” This is because the breed was developed in the US.