UKC CH Tuffy, photo courtesy of Rocktalk Toyfox Terriers
toy fahks TAIR-ee-uhr 
The Toy Fox Terrier is also known as the American Toy Terrier or Amertoy. The nose is black except in chocolate dogs where it will be self-colored. The eyes are dark and round. The ears are V-shaped and erect. A definite stop separates the domed skull from the small, narrow muzzle. The hair is short and thick. The tail is docked short and carried high. Note: Docking tails is illegal in most parts of Europe. The coat is tricolor, predominately white with black and tan or tan markings. Other colors do occur, but may not be accepted by the written standard.
The Toy Fox Terrier may be physically small, but this is a robust, little terrier that retains all the passion of its Fox Terrier ancestors. The breed is tough and bright, and can be stubborn without proper leadership from his owners. Curious and active, the Toy Fox Terrier keeps its young spirit throughout its life. It is intelligent, loving, sensitive and pleasant. It is very alert, inquisitive and quick. This is a companion dog that has not forgotten its ancient terrier instincts, and will therefore fight mice and small animals. This athletic little dog loves the hunt. Affectionate and very loyal, this breed is an exceptionally intelligent, trainable dog. Some have been trained to assist handicapped people around the home. It has proven to be an excellent hearing dog for the deaf. It can be trained to take its human companion to the sources of sounds, such as the telephone. Make sure you are this dog's firm, confident, consistent pack leader to avoid Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behavior problems. Always remember, dogs are canines, not humans. Be sure to meet their natural instincts as animals. If the human remains 100% pack leader, the dogs will not be yappers. Children should be taught to treat dogs kindly, yet in such a way the dog sees the child as his leader. This happy dog is sure to bring smiles to the faces of nearly all who meet it, due to its enthusiastic, puppy-like ways.
Height: about 10 inches (25 cm)
Weight: 3.5 - 7 pounds (1.5 - 3 kg)
This is a fairly healthy breed; however, some are prone to Legg-Calvé-Perthes and stifle, which are typical toy problems. Some dogs are allergic to beet pulp (this is fairly common). Also, corn and wheat.
The Toy Fox Terrier is good for apartment life. It is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. It cannot tolerate cold weather. It should wear a coat in the winter to help keep it warm.
These are active little dogs that need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, it will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard.
About 13-14 years
About 2-6 puppies
The Toy Fox Terrier is easy to groom. Occasionally comb and brush the smooth coat. Keep the nails short. This breed is a light shedder.
The Toy Fox Terrier was developed in the USA in the 1930s. It is directly descended from the Smooth Fox Terrier, which was crossed with various toy breeds such as th Miniature Pinscher, Italian Greyhound, Chihuahua and Manchester Terrier, with the intent of miniaturizing it. Its first use was hunting rats. The Toy Fox Terrier was recognized by the AKC in 2003.
Toy Fox Terrier Puppies—Photo courtesy of Foxhill Toy Fox Terriers
Foxlairs Minnie the Moocher, photo courtesy of Foxlair Toy Fox Terriers
Photo courtesy of Foxlore Toy Fox Terriers, photo taken by Sally Richardson
Photo courtesy of Foxlore Toy Fox Terriers, photo taken by Sally Richardson
Photo courtesy of Foxlore Toy Fox Terriers, photo taken by Sally Richardson
Sadie the Toy Fox Terrier puppy at 3 months old.
Sadie the Toy Fox Terrier puppy at 3 months old.
Oreo the Toy Fox Terrier at 4 years old—"She is absolutely wonderful. Her love for me is unconditional, and very much needed. She is great with kids, animals and traveling. Her markings are rare, so I thought it would be a great addition to the photos of this breed."
