Toy Fox Terrier Overview

The Toy Fox Terrier is a rugged, fiery ball of energy. It has high energy but a low exercise requirement, so toys are the best way to prevent this dog from becoming bored. 

Its small size makes for an adaptable pet, and it can live anywhere as long as it receives plenty of play and affection from its owner. 

A well-fenced yard is suggested, as it obsesses over exploration. 

This is an easy dog to maintain, because grooming requirements are virtually nonexistent. It does not do well in extreme weather, so puppy sweaters should be considered in cold climates. 

The Toy Fox Terrier is a clownish companion that is all affection, ideal for any family with the time and energy to play.

Toy Fox Terrier History

Originally seen as runts by American farmers, the Smooth Fox Terrier proved itself a plucky puppy, best suited for ratting in the early 20^th century. Their popularity increased even more, as owners found them to be great companions indoors. 

This relatively popular dog was bred with smaller breeds such as the Chihuahua, and the result was a smaller version of the Smooth Fox Terrier. In 1936, the UKC separated the dog into its own separate breed, calling it the Toy Fox Terrier. This breed was non-AKC until 2003, when they were finally allowed on the show floor.

Toy Fox Terrier Character

Tons of energy in a small package, the Toy Fox is a playful companion that prides itself on brightening the day. Certainly not for the laid back owner, this is a breed that demands attention. 

Exercise is easy enough for this dog, because it can burn of its seemingly endless supply of energy chasing balls or wrestling with squeak toys. 

The big issue with this feisty dog is that it does not do well on its own. It needs human companionship, like most dogs, but it also tends to get itself into trouble. It is important to keep a watchful eye on this type of dog. 

Toy Foxes do well with sensible children, but they do not take kindly to rough handling or teasing. 

It is an outgoing breed, although they sometimes need to warm up to strange visitors. In the company of other dogs, it is highly playful and loves to be the center of attention. But due to its small stature, it runs the risk of being trampled by bigger dogs. 

Intelligence is one of the more excellent qualities of this breed. It loves to please and it loves to entertain. The Toy Fox Terrier excels in obedience and agility competitions, or it will be happy doing tricks at home.

Toy Fox Terrier Care

Toy Fox Terriers are relatively maintenance free. An occasional brushing will suffice. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. It is important to provide regular dental hygiene. The nails must be kept short. The Toy Fox Terrier is prone to such health issues as allergies to beet, corn, and wheat, demodectic mange, patella luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthe disease, Von Willebrands disease, and congenital hypothyroidism with goiter. They do not do well in cold climates.

Toy Fox Terrier Training

A highly intelligent breed, the Toy Fox Terrier is quick to learn. Early socialization and obedience are recommended. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training should be done with fairness, praise, firmness, reward, and consistency. This breed is exceptionally talented as a hearing dog for the deaf and as an assistant to the handicapped.

Toy Fox Terrier Health

Common Health Issues for the Toy Fox Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Toy Fox Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Toy Fox Terrier Resources