The Toy Fox Terrier, or TFT as he is known to his friends, is a highly intelligent Toy Dog with a big dog personality.
Small, short-haired, and athletic, he is a devoted little dog of immense character and charm. His predominantly white body with solid-colored head is accented with body spots. He is alert, athletic, intelligent, and loyal, with an endless devotion to his family. A short, sleek coat, smooth body, and square proportions, his erect V-shaped ears, and his docked tail are his trademarks. Weight at maturity is 4-8 pounds. Height at the shoulder is 8-1/2”–11-1/2 inches. Four acceptable color combinations include: white, black & tan; white, chocolate & tan; white & tan; and white & black, with or without body spots.
Healthy and long-lived, it is common to find spunky individuals living to 17 years or more. The breed is friendly, happy, curious, and confidant by nature. He loves life, his friends, and his toys in equal measure well into his golden years!
Historically seen in circus acts, the TFT is a quick learner. He is highly trainable and agile, making the TFT well suited for Agility competition, Obedience, or Service Dog work. The show ring finds him in his own spotlight, impressing the crowd with his amazing performance!
Breed lore places the origins of the Toy Fox Terrier on the farms of Middle America in the last century, where a smaller terrier was utilized to control rodent populations in barns and outbuildings. It is thought that the “runts” of litters of Smooth Fox Terriers were retained as breeding stock and crossed with several Toy breeds to create the diminutive Toy Fox Terrier we see today. Prized as determined hunters and loyal companions, these small ratters could squeeze into tight spaces to seek out their rodent quarry. So cherished were these tenacious little companions that their masters were said to have packed up the plucky little terriers in their saddle bags to accompany them in their day’s work on the ranch. The breed has retained its hunting and working instincts to this day.
As an apartment dweller, in the family home, or out on the ranch, the versatile Toy Fox Terrier makes the perfect companion for the elderly. As a family pet or a fishing buddy, the charming TFT has proven to be a highly adaptable family member. These dogs have a natural affinity with children, interacting in their play. Highly adaptable, they make excellent canine companions in any home setting. It is no wonder why the breed has developed such a loyal following
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