Toy Fox Terrier: Info, Pictures, Facts, Traits & History

If you adore tiny dogs with gusto and pizazz, we must tell you about the toy Fox Terrier. This tiny dog has a brief heart and bossy persona. They love to act bigger than what they are and can be the biggest babies all at the same time.

So, if you are seriously considering getting a puppy, we're going to tell you what it's like to own these toy Fox Terriers from puppy to adulthood.

If you ask toy Fox Terrier enthusiasts, most will agree that these dogs are certainly spirited, blessed by both their toy and terrier size. This dog is headstrong, stubborn, and boldly rejects authority at every turn. However, they equally have the potential to turn around and be the sweetest dog you have ever seen.

Many adore these personality quirks of the toy Fox Terrier as they're so tiny. However, this doesn't mean that these dogs are suitable for every lifestyle. In this article, we're going to aim to educate families about the toy Fox Terrier so you can make the best choice on the right breed for you.

Toy Fox Terrier Characteristics

Toy Fox Terrier Puppies

Can you imagine bringing home a toy Fox Terrier puppy? These tiny tots are light as a feather when you bring them home and about as big! These tiny cuties will quickly warm your hearts with so much love.

When you are selecting your toy Fox Terrier, it is important to choose a reputable breeder with a solid reputation. Steer clear of puppy mills and other questionable organizations, like mainstream pet shops.

These types of facilities usually breed and sell dogs for profit without considering the animal's best interest. Since the toy Fox Terrier is a semi-popular breed, you might be able to find one at a local rescue shelter.

While they might not be newborn puppies, you can give them a second chance at a forever home.

Toy Fox Terrier Origin & History

In the early 20th century, breeders from America specialized in Smooth Fox Terriers and decided to try a hybridized dog. Mixing the Smooth Fox Terrier with chihuahuas and Italian greyhounds, the Toy Fox Terrier was created. It also had influences from various terrier breeds and beagles.

This combination created a fiery, spirited pup with a love for adventure and a big heart for its people. Initially, these dogs were used to hunt foxes and small game. Over time, these dogs went from hunters to housemates.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Toy Fox Terrier 🧠

This particular breed is known for being full of life, always passing on good energy. Even though these little dogs have classic little dog syndrome, always thinking they're bigger than what they are, they are big softies with those they love.

These dogs are immensely intelligent and capable of learning a wide variety of things. However, for optimal results, they need firm, consistent reward-based training from a very early age. These very stubborn dogs can certainly rise up if they are not happy with your authority.

If not handled correctly, these dogs might exhibit aggression, including biting. It is always best to treat them with respect and understand the breed's temperament intensely before attempting any kind of training or reprimanding.

Are These Dogs Good for Families 👪

Depending on the circumstances, the toy Fox Terrier can make an amazing family addition. Because these dogs are very small and can get injured easily, they do best with older children who know how to responsibly handle animals.

These dogs would be a very good match for seniors or retired folks who are looking for a new buddy to get through life with. They also make very good dogs for apartment living since they are so small and take up next to no space.

These dogs are certainly companion animals with a strong connection to humans. Because they are very dependent, they work best with folks who can take them along on outings or even someone who works from home.

If left alone for long periods, these little dogs can experience depression or separation anxiety.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets 🐶 😽

It is very possible for a toy Fox Terrier to get along very well with other animals in the home. Of course, there are some things to consider here. First of all, this breed is extremely small. If you have larger dogs that are a bit rough, they can hurt this little dog with very little effort.

Also, they tend to be a little bit bossy. So, if you have another dog in the home with dominance issues, it can cause a rift between the two animals and wind up in injury. Always be careful when mixing two pets with different personalities; it can be a gamble and we wouldn’t want these little yappers getting hurt.

Things to Know When Owning a Toy Fox Terrier

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

Small dogs need something to keep their bodies in excellent condition that is easy for them to chew. Many small dog owners often turn to wet canned food as a way to make the food more palatable.

Smaller dogs like the toy Fox Terrier are also known for being a little pickier than standard breeds, causing owners to try different diets before one sticks.

Because these dogs require substantially less food than a standard-sized dog would need, you might be able to find it in your budget to go for a fresh food diet; these types of diets tend to be very healthy for canines but are usually only available through a subscription and are therefore more expensive.

Exercise 🐕

Don't let their size fool you. The toy Fox Terrier requires approximately an hour of exercise every day to keep them healthy. They absolutely thrive on daily walks, car rides, and outings with their families.

So definitely don't skip out on any exercise, and make sure that your toy Fox Terrier gets plenty of stimulating action and socialization. Each Fox Terrier can differ a little bit in personality.

Therefore, it's hard to tell exactly how they will interact with other dogs at dog parks, and because of their small size, they can get very hurt should an altercation take place.

Training 🎾

Even though these dogs are fiercely independent, they are also highly trainable. Granted, they are likely only to listen to a select person or two, but they are capable of learning if they are bonded to you.

If they aren't, they might ignore you when you try to correct them. These dogs are so particular that you will have to find the right training methods that work for your given situation.

Under the right circumstances and with consistency, these dogs will make extremely wonderful companion animals and learn basic and complicated commands, should you choose to teach them.

These dogs love being active, so agility games, scavenger hunts, and obstacle courses are always fun for them, permitting they are size-appropriate.

Grooming ✂️

Grooming your toy Fox Terrier should be relatively easy. These short-haired dogs aren't hard to maintain, and you should just be able to give them a full-body bath once every 4 to 6 weeks. You can spoil them by taking them to the groomer, or you can do it yourself at home.

These dogs are very low maintenance, requiring just a few passes of a brush and general upkeep to avoid getting shed hair and debris all over your fabrics and furniture. In addition to bathing and brushing, you should expect to trim your dog's nails and clean their ears as needed.

Health and Conditions 🏥

The toy Fox Terrier is generally a very healthy breed, but there can be some genetic exceptions. To ensure that your dog is healthy, you should start by getting them from a reputable breeder who has performed the proper health testing and vetting.

Taking your pup to the vet on a schedule will also help to ensure that you stay ahead of any developing health issues that could arise. In the first year of life, your puppy will get to know their vet quite well, coming in for routine checkups, parasite prevention, and vaccinations.

If you're feeling up to it, you could also opt for pet insurance. This will cover you in the event of an emergency or injury that you cannot afford upfront.

Male vs Female

As with most dogs, the males are slightly larger than the females, causing a noticeable size difference if you see the two next to each other. However, when you have a 5-pound dog, it's hard to think that any of them are very big.

As far as personality goes, there aren't any substantial differences between males and females, as they all have their own individual personalities. However, certain behaviors are exclusive to males or females.

For example, if you don't get your animals spayed or neutered, the females can go into heat cycles, which can cause bleeding and personality changes. Males might also exhibit hormonal changes, such as marking, aggression, and other unwanted behaviors.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Toy Fox Terrier

1. Toy Fox Terriers are known for being lap dogs.

The Fox Terrier might have a big mouth, but they sure are sweethearts! If you are on the Fox Terrier’s good side, they will snuggle up with you every chance they get.

2. Toy Fox Terriers are little athletes.

Even though these little dogs have tiny bodies, that doesn't say anything about their activity levels. These puppies are able to keep up with the best of them. These dogs are extremely fast, agile, and able-bodied.

3. Toy Fox Terriers are known for being clowns.

The toy Fox Terrier will crack you up with their hilarious antics. They are always goofing around! And even if they mean business, sometimes your reaction to that is equally as hilarious.

Final Thoughts

Now, you've learned a lot more about the toy Fox Terrier. This fearless, energetic little breed is sure to keep you on your toes. While they might have big personalities, they are big babies, too! These little dogs have barks that are much bigger than their bites!

If you don't plan to have someone home with the toy Fox Terrier, it is probably not the best breed for your household. These dogs need constant stimulation and require the companionship of their owners most of the time.

See also:

• Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter? Is It Good for Them? Vet-Reviewed Health Facts

• Do You Have a Food-Obsessed Dog? Here’s How to Work Through It (Vet Approved)

Featured Image Credit: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock