Toy Fox Terrier
Also known as: TFT, American Toy Terrier, Amertoy
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
3.5-7 lbs
Height (Male)
8.5-11.5 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Toy Fox Terrier is a truly American breed that combines the athleticism and terrier spirit of the Smooth Fox Terrier with toy-breed devotion. Intelligent, spirited, and entertaining, they are excellent companions and performers.
History
Developed in the United States by breeding down Smooth Fox Terriers and crossing with Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds, and Min Pins. Popular as circus performers and companions. AKC recognized in 2003.
Appearance
A tiny, elegant, well-balanced terrier with a smooth, satiny coat. Athletic and finely-boned. Erect, pointed ears. Dark, round eyes with an alert expression. Square build despite tiny size.
Temperament
Intelligent, spirited, and devoted. Toy Fox Terriers combine toy-breed affection with genuine terrier spirit. They are entertaining, athletic, and surprisingly capable for their tiny size.
Personality Around Others
Very devoted to family. Good with older children. Alert and curious. Love being with people. Can be vocal.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise. Daily walks and play. Love games and tricks. Active for their size.
Training
Highly trainable for a terrier. Intelligent and eager. Quick learners. Excel at tricks and agility.
Grooming
Minimal grooming. Occasional brushing. Very low maintenance. Regular dental care.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Generally healthy breed. Joint issues are the main concerns. DNA testing available for several conditions.
Recommended Health Tests
- Patellar Evaluation
- DNA Tests for vWD and CHG
- Cardiac Exam
Average Annual Vet Cost
$500-$1,000
Nutrition
Quality toy-breed food. Small portions. Active dogs need good nutrition. Dental care important.
Living Environment
Excellent apartment dogs. Small, clean, adaptable. Active indoors and out.
Ideal Family
Families wanting an active, trainable toy dog. Apartment dwellers. First-time owners.
Intelligence
Very smart. Quick to learn tricks and commands. Natural performers. Love mental challenges.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Can be vocal. Alert watchdogs. Training manages barking. Terrier alertness.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Low shedding. Short, smooth coat needs minimal care.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
Were popular circus performers due to their intelligence and trainability
Truly American breed—developed exclusively in the United States
Combine toy-breed devotion with genuine terrier spirit
Despite their tiny size, they are athletic and capable
Were used as hearing-ear dogs due to their alertness and trainability
Famous Dogs
Circus TFTs
Toy Fox Terriers were among the most popular circus dogs in America, performing tricks and stunts
Common Myths
"Toy dogs can't be real terriers"
TFTs have genuine terrier drive and spirit—they can catch mice and excel at earth dog trials
"They're too small for active families"
TFTs are surprisingly athletic and love participating in family activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Are they good apartment dogs?
Excellent—small, clean, and adaptable. They need daily exercise but thrive in apartments.
Can they do dog sports?
Absolutely—they excel at agility, obedience, and flyball despite their tiny size.
Puppy Guide
TFT puppies are tiny but bold. Protect from falls. Start training early—they love learning.
Senior Care
Senior TFTs remain active and spirited. Joint care important. Keep warm. Dental care.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$12,000-$16,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Highly trainable
Very low grooming
Athletic and fun
Great apartment dog
Loyal companion
Cons
Fragile size
Can be vocal
Needs warmth
Small dog vulnerability
Terrier stubbornness