Overview
The Toy Fox Terrier was bred down in the United States from small Smooth Fox Terriers crossed with toy breeds such as the Chihuahua and Italian Greyhound. It kept the terrier's alertness and love of a chase in a package that fits in a handbag. It has a fine, smooth, mostly white coat with black or tan markings and large, upright ears.
It is a cheerful, clever and devoted little dog, more active than most toys and quick to learn tricks. It also believes itself to be much larger than it is, which is charming at home and a liability at the park.
Exercise and walking needs
Two walks of twenty minutes or so plus some play indoors suit most adults. It has plenty of energy for its size but short legs, and it tires faster than it thinks it does.
The breed feels the cold acutely. In winter it needs a coat and a shorter route, and in wet weather it may simply refuse. Hot pavement in summer is equally hard on tiny feet.
On the walk
- Size: A dog of two kilos can be hurt by an enthusiastic Labrador greeting. Pick it up if a big dog approaches at speed and keep group walks to small, gentle dogs.
- Chase: Terrier instinct is fully intact. Squirrels, birds and leaves will all trigger a dash, so keep the lead attached to a harness.
- Recall: Good when there is nothing more interesting around. Off-lead time belongs in enclosed spaces.
- Cold: Shivering sets in quickly. A fitted jacket is needed on all but the mildest days.
Tips for professional walkers
- Keep a coat in the van and put it on before the dog starts to shiver.
- Use a harness and a light lead; a collar on a neck this fine is a risk when it lunges.
- Watch for broken glass and hot or icy pavements; small paws get hurt easily.
- Carry the dog across busy car parks and past groups of large dogs.
What to ask the owner
- Does the dog have any knee or leg problems, and should jumping down from furniture or kerbs be avoided?
- How does it behave around large dogs, and would you rather I kept it away from them entirely?
- What temperature is too cold for a walk, and does the dog wear a coat?