| Breed Description
- English Toy Terrier |
|
| Kennel Club Group |
Toy |
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|
| General Size |
Small |
Exercise requirements |
Medium |
| Adult Height |
10" - 12" (25 - 30 cms) |
Suitability for Children |
Medium |
| Adult Weight |
6 - 8 lb (3 - 4 kgs) |
Compatibility other pets |
Low |
| Average Lifespan |
10 - 14 years |
Grooming Requirements |
Low |
|
 |
| The English Toy Terrier is a small, well balanced and elegant breed, slightly longer than they are tall with a compact body, slightly curved back and a deep narrow chest. The neck is long, graceful and slightly arched supporting a long, wedge shaped head with dark almond shaped eyes and large pointed upright ears. Their coat is thick, dense, close and glossy - colouring is black with tan markings above each eye, on each cheek, under the jaw, inside the ears, on the feet and under the tail. |
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| Until the 1960's the English Toy Terrier was known as the Miniature Black and Tan Terrier and it's heritage can be directly traced to black and tan terriers recorded in the UK in the 16th century. During the 1800's they were in heavy demand as ratters in the UK and were also used to flush foxes, with gentlemen hunters carrying them in their pockets (!) At the time it was also popular sport to place a dog into a ring with a number of rats with the winning dog being the one that killed it's rats fastest - at this the English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan Terrier) excelled. |
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| Inquisitive, intelligent and independent the English Toy Terrier can be a challenge to train, firm and consistent training is the key. On the whole they are affectionate, friendly and devoted to their family. They get on well with older children but do not tolerate teasing so may not be best suited to younger families. They do still possess a trace of the terrier temperament and this should be remembered in their dealings with small household pets. |
| The English Toy Terrier requires a decent amount of exercise both to keep muscle tone and to prevent boredom - despite their small stature they have good stamina and are capable of long walks. They have short smooth coats and as such grooming is just a once over with a grooming mitt as and when required. |
| Potential
Health Problems |
| A healthy breed, barring accidents the English Toy Terrier is likely to see the vet only on a yearly basis for booster jabs and a checkup. Some do suffer skin problems which may be helped by switching diet to one of the hyper allergenic types. |
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