Toy Fox Terrier
Quick Summary
Intelligent, compact companions ideal for active owners seeking an alert watchdog. Perfect for apartment living but requires consistent training and exercise.
Contents
Weight Range
3-7 lbs
♂ Male: N/A lbs
♀ Female: N/A lbs
Height Range
22-29 inches
♂ Male: N/A"
♀ Female: N/A"
Life Expectancy
13-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Toy Group
Originally bred for Developed in the United States during the 1930s for hunting small vermin and providing companionship
Popularity
#111
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | "-" |
| Female Height | "-" |
| Male Weight | - lbs |
| Female Weight | - lbs |
| Coat Length | /5 |
| Drooling Level | /5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1000-$2000), vaccinations, and supplies. Monthly expenses cover quality food, routine vet care, and minimal grooming needs. Dental care may increase healthcare costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and intelligent with a spirited personality. High energy levels require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Social and affectionate with family members while maintaining typical terrier independence.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular human interaction and companionship. Generally good with other pets when properly socialized. Can experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Toy Fox Terriers embody elegance and agility in a compact frame, featuring a distinctive V-shaped head, erect ears, and a sleek, muscular body. Their short, smooth coat comes primarily in tricolor or white with black and tan markings. Alert and spirited, these diminutive terriers combine the refined grace of a toy breed with the bold, fearless nature of their terrier heritage.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Highly intelligent
- ✓ Low maintenance grooming
- ✓ Good for apartment living
- ✓ Long lifespan
Cons
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ May be yappy
- ✗ Prone to dental issues
- ✗ Not ideal with very young children
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Alert, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 30-45 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and agility activities. Moderate to high intensity level, with a mix of mental and physical stimulation needed to maintain happiness and prevent boredom.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for portion control to prevent weight gain. Small kibble size recommended for easier consumption.
Feed high-quality small breed dog food divided into two daily meals, totaling 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day. Monitor calorie intake to prevent obesity. Fresh water should always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Well-suited for apartment living due to small size. Requires minimal space but benefits from secure outdoor areas. Adapts well to various climates with proper protection.
Minimal space requirements make them excellent apartment dogs. Adapts well to any living situation but needs a secure area for exercise. Thrives in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
American breeders developed the Toy Fox Terrier by crossing small Smooth Fox Terriers with various toy breeds, including Chihuahuas and Manchester Terriers. The goal was to create a smaller, more refined companion dog.
Historical Purpose
Developed in the United States during the 1930s for hunting small vermin and providing companionship. Farmers valued these dogs for their exceptional ratting abilities.
Fun Fact
Despite their tiny size, Toy Fox Terriers were originally skilled ratters on American farms!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires dental attention due to small mouth size. Needs protection in extreme weather. Regular exercise essential to prevent behavioral issues.