Toy Fox Terrier Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Toy Fox Terrier?

The Toy Fox Terrier breed is not a new breed, but it only dates back to the 1930s.

In America, in the hopes of finding a viable future for small Smooth Fox Terriers, which were considered the runts of the litter, from Smooth Fox Terrier litters, several dog breeds were selected for cross-breeding.

The breeders selected Chihuahuas, Manchester Terriers, and Italian Greyhounds as the breeding dogs for the runts.

Because of the mix that made up the resulting puppy's parents, the new breed inherited the toy dog's body, but the Terrier's temperament and trainability.

Thus, the dog breed was called the Toy Fox Terrier or TFT.

Who are Toy Fox Terrier dogs best for?

Generally speaking, this dog is a good addition to the family. They will fall in love with their family members and will get along well with other dogs and pets.

However, this breed is not recommended for families with small pets (such as rodents) or small children as young kids tend to unintentionally play a bit rough.

That may not only cause a defensive reaction in your dog but may result in its injury.

Toy dogs tend to be a bit more susceptible to injuries, and this dog is no exception. The Toy Fox Terrier puppy, and even the adult dog, are prone to broken bones, specifically their legs.

Like other small breeds, they will do very well in an apartment setting and are very adaptable in general.

If you are willing to be tested, this dog breed is OK for first-time owners, but do not think that because this is a small dog that it will be easy sailing. They will sense your inexperience and will challenge you.

How much grooming does a Toy Fox Terrier need?

The good news about Toy Fox Terriers is that they are a low-maintenance breed of dog. Their coats are short and smooth.

Toy Fox Terrier grooming is relatively straightforward. Brush their coats a few times a week to remove any dead dog hair, as they are moderate shedders (primarily during the spring season).

Keep their teeth and ears clean and stay on top of the nails.

Do Toy Fox Terrier bark much?

Without the proper training, beginning when they are pups, these will be very vocal adult dogs.

They have a high prey drive and are on constant alert to their surroundings, so movement will trigger them to bark. It's also important to remember, that one of their primary means of exhibiting dominance is by being the loudest.

With that said, if, given the proper training, their propensity to be noisemakers can be relatively low.

Do Toy Fox Terrier bite?

Like any toy breed, biting is a defence mechanism or a symptom that something is wrong with them; such as a health issue or depression.

A healthy Toy Fox Terrier has a low propensity to bite.

What is the temperament & personality of a Toy Fox Terrier?

The Toy Fox Terrier temperament is the result of this dog's lifelong identity crisis regarding its size.

Though they are smaller dogs, they genuinely believe they are larger dogs.

They can also be very dominant due to their high prey drive. They are very likely to try and exhibit that dominance over everyone else in the home. This is especially true regarding other dogs.

Most other dogs won't put up with the TFT's behaviour, however, and it could rain cats and dogs in your house until a peace accord is agreed upon.

With that said, these are very friendly and affectionate dogs. You may look at this pooch and think it is a lap dog, but they aren't.

These are energetic and active dogs. Normally, this breed does not like being a couch potato. Though it's possible, however, that being lazy is the individual dog's personality. However, it could also mean there is something wrong with the dog.

What is the weight & size of a Toy Fox Terrier?

As purebreds, dog size is controlled by the breed standard.

Weight

These dogs average between 1.5 and 3 kg.

Height

These dogs will reach 25 cm in height.

How much training does a Toy Fox Terrier need?

Thanks to their Terrier heritage, these dogs are very easy to train. And training is a requirement, not an option. However, with training, these dogs can do just about anything, including dog sports.

As with many toy breeds, housebreaking can be labour-intensive. This is a smart dog, and as such, it knows that the easiest way to do things is...well... the easiest way to do things.

So, without the proper training, your home will be a life-long Easter egg hunt if housebreaking is not addressed correctly while they are puppies.

And, though TFT puppies are cute, they are vessels of future tyranny if not given the proper training. Puppy Kindergarten Class is imperative if the future habitability of your home means anything to you.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Toy Fox Terrier?

As a purebred pooch, this is a fairly healthy breed but does have some health problems to monitor.

The most common health problems are:

• Demodectic Mange

• Hip Dysplasia

• Elbow Dysplasia

• Legg-Perthes Disease

• Von Willebrand's Disease

• Hypothyroidism

• Joint Issues

• Eye Problems

• Obesity

If buying from a Toy Fox Terrier breeder, be sure the breeder provides medical clearances for these issues from the proper organizations, such as the Canine Eye Registry Foundation.

What is the lifespan of a Toy Fox Terrier?

This breed has an average to above-average life expectancy. In good health, Toy Fox Terriers live between 12 and 15 human years, or to dog ages of 74 to 84.

How much should you feed a Toy Fox Terrier?

As small dogs, TFTs do not need to each that much. With that being said, they will eat whenever the opportunity arises and whatever it is. Obesity is a major health concern for this breed.

The standard diet is 32 grams to 64 grams of high-quality dry food which is best divided into two meals throughout the day.

Though these are active dogs, their energy and activity level is unique to each individual. So, rely on your vet's guidance for the diet specifics for your dog.

What is the price of a Toy Fox Terrier in Australia?

For being purebred, this dog breed is not really that expensive. In fact, you may be able to find a Toy Fox Terrier rescue to adopt.

However, if you chose to buy from a breeder, you should contact the national breed club to locate a reputable breeder.

You can expect Toy Fox Terrier puppies to cost between $400 and $600.