History of the TFT

The imediate ancestor of the Toy Fox Terrier is the larger Smooth Terrier. The original Fox Terrier breed standard was written in England in 1876. The size of the breed at that time was 18 to 20 pounds. Owners of these brave little dogs found that the smallest, called "runts", were the scrappiest of the bunch. These little dogs were prized for their temperment. This, smaller dogs were developed and eventually found in the seven-pound range.

 The United Kennel Club began registering the Smooth Fox Terrier in 1912. Between then and the mid-1920's the Toy Fox Terrier was developed, being a miniature of the previous breed, however, still registered under the name of the Fox Terrier(Smooth). Those dogs appear almost identical to the dogs of today. It was not until February 24, 1939, that U.K.C. began registering the Toy Fox Terrier under its current name. The A.K.C began to recognize the Toy Fox Terrier in their Toy Group in 2003.

The Toy Fox Terrier is self-possessed, spirited, and determined. They are energetic, lively, and strong for their size. They are not easily intimidated by other pets and are comical, entertaining, and playful all of their lives. They are friendly and loyal to their master or owners, yet protective. As a rule they are easily trained and adapt to showing in conformation and obedience.

Although small in size, the TFT has a body that is square when viewed from the side. The length of the head, neck, and legs are in proportion to the length and depth of the body, which is compact, with the short tail carried upright. With a short, glossy, predominantly white coat, the appearance is nothing but  elegant, balanced, and aristocratic. Highly intelligent, alert, loyal, fearless and having much endurance, this small dog, above all, has the conformation, characteristics and personality of  a terrier.