Relatively new to the canine world, the Toy Fox Terrier has developed a popularity that defies its recent recognition. As popular as small dogs are, the combination of tiny and terrier seems to be particularly charming. The addition of this breed to major registries may help to insure careful breeding practices or it may insure overexposure (as it has for so many others) that leads to demand for puppies that can exceed what responsible breeders provide, with the remainder being supplied by puppy mills and other irresponsible sources. If a Toy Fox Terrier is what you have your heard set on, please do thorough research so that you can confidently say that the breeder you got your puppy from was responsible and ethical.
Overall Appearance: Small terrier type, the heritage of the Smooth Fox Terrier is apparent.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: very high
General Nature:
intelligent, animated, courageous, devoted
with Children: too small and fragile to be a good choice with small children
with other pets: variable
with dogs: generally good
Socialization requirements: high: inclined toward shyness or tyrannical behavior if overly indulged, socialization helps build better balance
Ideal home characteristics: appreciates the Terrier/Toy nature, enjoys small very active dogs demanding of attention and continuously seeking to entertain
Training requirement: moderate: socialization and basic manners
Trainer notes: The Toy Fox Terrier offers an unique challenge to the trainer. While very intelligent and playful, the dog also has a strong streak of independence (thank you Terrier) and being so small means that the trainer will already be spending alot of time bending. Still, with the right attitude (on the part of the trainer) and enough fun and interest, the Toy Fox Terrier will enjoy keeping up with the new game.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: recent
Country of Origin: USA
Original Function: companion
History: Developed from crosses of the Smooth Fox Terrier, Manchester Terrier and Chihuahua.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard: too large, dentition problems
Health Notes: Legge-Calve-Perthes disease, luxating patellas, hip dysplasia, eye problems, Von Willebrand's, hypothyroidism with goiter,
Health Testing: vWD test, Thyroid panel, OFA, CERF
