Toy Fox Terrier

Not Good with Kids: In isolation, this dog breed might not be the best option for kids. However, to mitigate the risks, have the puppy grow up with kids and provide it with plenty of pleasant and relaxed experiences with them. This breed is also friendly toward other pets and shy toward strangers.

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.

The Toy Fox Terrier has all the same traits that make the Smooth Fox Terrier such a successful hunter -- just in a diminutive package. This is an athletic, agile and graceful dog with surprising strength and the stamina to frolic all day. The gait is smooth and effortless. The coat is short and smooth, perfect for caressing.

TFTs are TNT in a small bundle. Feisty and fun-loving, they are hunting terriers at heart and will spend hours investigating the yard, your cabinets and places you never knew existed. They love to play with people and toys, and make excellent companions for careful older children; however, they do not tolerate inconsiderate handling. They can entertain for hours and are also content to snuggle on a warm lap during recess. This is a one-family, even one-person, breed that doesn't warm to strangers initially. The TFT's intelligence, energy and penchant for showing off make it a quick study and impressive trick dog.

The Toy Fox Terrier is an American breed descending from the first registered Smooth Fox Terrier, named ‘Foiler’. Fox Terriers were bred for fox bolting (chasing foxes out into the open where they could be attacked by larger dogs); white was preferred to distinguish the dogs from foxes at night. The Fox Terrier was one of the earliest show dogs, recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885 (the Smooth Fox Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier were recognized as distinct breeds a century later). Toy Fox Terriers were bred from their larger cousins by American farmers who favored the shorter variety for chasing rodents. Toy Fox Terriers were crossed with other breeds such as the Chihuahua and Manchester Terrier for a smaller size and slightly calmer temperament. The Toy Fox Terrier was recognized as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club in 2003.