Toy Fox Terrier
Also known as American Toy Terrier · Amertoy
United States, Terriers
- Size
- Toy
- Height
- 22–29 cm
- Weight
- 1.5–3.5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 13–15 yrs
- Confident
- Playful
- Agile
- Alert
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier is a tiny, smooth-coated terrier, usually white with a black or tan head. It combines a terrier's spirit with the convenience of a toy dog. It is agile, alert and quick-witted.
Temperament
Toy Fox Terriers are confident, playful and affectionate, often bonding strongly with their owners. They can be bold and may stand up to much bigger dogs.
Exercise
Short daily walks and indoor play meet their needs. They enjoy trick training and dog sports such as agility.
Grooming
The fine coat needs only occasional brushing. Provide a coat in cold weather, as they feel the chill.
Care & wellbeing
Their small size makes them fragile around rough handling. A DNA test exists for congenital hypothyroidism with goitre, which affects the breed. Lethargy, weight gain or a swelling in the neck should be checked by a vet.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 2.5 kg adult- Water
- 100 ml–150 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 220 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Toy Fox Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The breed was developed in the United States in the early 1900s by breeding the smallest Smooth Fox Terriers with toy breeds such as the Chihuahua, Toy Manchester Terrier and Italian Greyhound. It was used as a ratter and circus performer. The UKC recognised the breed in 1936, and the AKC in 2003.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Congenital hypothyroidism with goitre
- Demodectic mange
- Primary lens luxation
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Congenital hypothyroidism with goitre (CHG) DNA test
- Patella check
- Eye examination
Not every Toy Fox Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 13–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Toy Fox Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Toy Fox Terrier get?
Adult Toy Fox Terriers typically stand about 22–29 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 1.5–3.5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Toy Fox Terriers live?
Typically 13–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Toy Fox Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Toy Fox Terrier need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Toy Fox Terriers easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Toy Fox Terriers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Toy Fox Terriers good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Toy Fox Terrier live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Toy Fox Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, legg-calvé-perthes disease, congenital hypothyroidism with goitre. Not every Toy Fox Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Terriers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the AKC and UKC; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club