Outgoing Toy Fox Terriers have serious FOMO (fear of missing out): whatever you're doing, they want to be along for the ride. Literally, in some cases — this breed used to ride in the saddlebags of hunters, who took them out to catch small prey. They've also performed in circuses, impressing audiences with their jumping skills and ability to walk a tightrope. Sometimes, though, these feisty furballs just want to stay in with you for movies and cuddles.
Toy Fox Terriers are sometimes called an “AmerToy” breed because — you guessed it — this toy breed originated in the United States. Those huge bat ears and naturally bobbed tail give the Toy Fox Terrier a distinctive look.
This small-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 3.5-7 pounds and lives an average of 13-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Toy group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Companion |
| Origin | USA |
| Breed group | Toy |
| Average lifespan | 13-15 years |
| Size | Tiny |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 95 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | Early 1900s |
| Original function | Vermin control |
| Today's function | Companion |
| Average size of male | Height: 8.5 -11 Weight: 3.5 - 7 |
| Average size of female | Height: 8.5 -11 Weight: 3.5 - 7 |
| Other name | American Toy Terrier |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | Low |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Low tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A TOY FOX TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Toy Fox Terriers can be a bit “extra,” as the kids say. They're bursting at the seams with personality. This breed has charisma, courage, and comedy to spare. Fiercely loyal, these dogs make their chosen people the center of their world. Their small size and considerable energy levels make them better suited to play with older children.
WHAT IS TOY FOX BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Alert and very active, Toy Fox Terriers are dogs on the go. This is an athletic, graceful, and agile breed.
Romping and running should be a part of their everyday routine; this dog has endless endurance. True terriers, they also enjoy digging, exploring, and barking. Discourage nuisance barking early and often.
HOW EASY IS TO TRAIN A TOY FOX TERRIER?
Toy Fox Terriers are an intelligent and biddable breed; they respond eagerly to training. The flip side of that intelligence is that these clever canines bore easily, so keep training sessions short and fun. They excel at rally, flyball, and agility.
Unlike many toy breeds, these dogs house-train quickly. Many use piddle pads or litter boxes (though male Toy Fox Terriers don't always have the best aim, so you might want to look into a high-sided litter box).
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO TOY FOX TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Toy Fox Terriers are average seasonal shedders who require occasional grooming. Plan to brush them once a week and bathe as needed.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO TOY FOX TERRIERS HAVE?
As a breed, Toy Fox Terriers are generally healthy. Some are vulnerable to slipping kneecaps or eye disease.
