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| American Toy Terrier (Amertoy or Toy Fox Terrier) |
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Custodians of this very newly recognized breed are quick to point out that the Ameritoy is a Toy and a Terrier. This creates a sparkling character of independence and intelligence. Combined with a toy stature means that the family that chooses the Ameritoy must understand and appreciate the challenge of socializing and training a well-adjusted companion. Mishandling, either due to roughness, inconsistency, negligence can cause as many issues including aggression as can indulgence. This is NOT the dog to take home and spoil to pieces. Respect the mind of this little dog otherwise you will discover the potential tyrant within. At its best, the Ameritoy proves itself to be among the most charming and entertaining of the canine kingdom. |
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| General Information |
| Group(s):
Toy |
Height: 8.5-11.5 inches |
| Weight: 9-15 pounds |
Longevity: late teens |
| Colors: white with chocolate, black and/or tan |
Coat type: short, smooth and dense |
| Recognized Registries: NCA, AKC, UKC and others |
| Overall Appearance: Compact, foxy and diminutive smooth coated terrier that is very reminiscent of the Smooth Fox Terrier it is descended from. The larger prick ears hearken to the Manchester Terrier influence. Other than size, the influence of the Chihuahua is hardly discernible. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: moderately high |
| General Nature: |
happy unless trained to be fearful or tyrannical; intelligent, independent, impulsive |
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with Children: generally not a good choice with those under 14 |
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with other pets: Terrier nature makes them less than reliable with small mammals, birds and cats |
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with dogs: typically good but care should be taken during introductions, with intact males or females in season |
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| Socialization requirements: moderately high |
| Ideal home characteristics: one that appreciates that this small dog does not mean less work in the area of socializing and training to be a good companion |
| Temperament Notes: fiesty, jaunty, quirky, interesting and devoted, the Ameritoy is truly inspired by those that love him/her |
| Training requirement: moderate: socializing, basic manners another activity for play, retrieving, agility or even pet therapy is advisable |
| Trainer notes: For those who hope to have a dog that works with precision and military exactitude, the independent nature of the Terrier will deliver grave disappointment. For the trainer who enjoys helping their companion grow to new potential while enjoying an interesting time peeling away the layers to real communication, an incomparably exciting adventure is in the effort. This breed will likely always "perform" with their own sense of accomplishment, goal and perhaps agenda. The gifted trainer is the one who can still motivate the goal while enjoying the detours on the way. |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: 2000 with the creation of their standard |
| Country of Origin: USA |
| Original Function: companion |
| History: Developed from Fox Terriers with the addition of Chihuahua and Manchester Terriers |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: oversized |
| Health Notes: Legg-Calve-Perthes, luxating patellas, vWD, Thyroid Issues, |
| Health Testing: Thyroid Panel, vWD, Legg-Perthes Test, OFA (luxating patellas) |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
- How long have you had American Toy Fox Terriers?
- How often do you breed?
- Do you intend to keep a puppy from this litter?
- What do you consider ideal AmerToy temperament?
- What would you consider an ideal home for an American Toy Fox Terrier?
- Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
- Do you microchip?
- At what age do you allow your puppies to go to their new homes?
- What health issues have you observed in the breed?
- What health clearances do you get for your breeding stock?
- What titles do you seek for your breeding stock?
- What suggestions for raising, training and socializing do you have for puppies?
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| Web Sites: http://www.atftc.com/rescue.html- Rescue of the American Toy Fox Terrier Club |
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| Other Resources |
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