Pet Wiki

Toy Fox Terrier

Also called American Toy Terrier, Amertoy

A confident, lively little dog that mixes terrier spirit with the cuddly nature of a lap dog.

SizeToy
Weight1.6 to 3.6 kg (4 to 8 lb)123
Height21.5 to 29 cm (8 to 11 in)132
Lifespan13 to 15 years23
CoatShort, smooth, satiny single coat
OriginUnited States, early 20th century31
Recognised breedShort profile
big personality in a tiny body
quick to learn
playful and entertaining
142

Personality what they are like

A confident, lively little dog that mixes terrier spirit with the cuddly nature of a lap dog. It is devoted to its people, likes to clown around, is not easily put off by larger pets, and can be reserved with strangers until it gets to know them.124

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth, satiny single coat

A fine, glossy coat that lies flat and feels silky to the hand, covering a compact, athletic little body that is mostly white.143

Colourstricolour (white, black and tan)white and tanwhite and blackchocolate tricolour (not accepted for AKC showing)31

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Toy Fox Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Energetic for its size. Daily walks plus indoor games keep it content, and it copes well in an apartment as long as it gets regular play.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Very easy to keep. A weekly brush, the odd bath, regular tooth brushing and nail trims are enough; shedding is light and mostly seasonal.2

Home where they are happiest

Suits both houses and apartments; a small secure yard is a bonus but not required.2

Company who they like around

Bonds closely with its family and enjoys being involved. Early socialisation helps it relax around visitors; best matched with older, gentle children because of its small size.21

The story where it all began

The breed was developed in the United States by selecting the smallest Smooth Fox Terriers, and some lines trace back to Foiler, an early registered fox terrier. Small toy breeds were also added along the way. The dogs started out as farmyard ratters and gradually became popular household companions.321

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Their agility made them a favourite with circus clowns, and some performed tricks such as tightrope walking.2

  2. 2

    The nickname Amertoy is a blend of the words American and toy.2

  3. 3

    The UKC was registering these dogs as Fox Terriers in the 1920s, a decade before it gave them their own breed name in 1936.1

  4. 4

    They are easy to train and have often been chosen as companion and assistance dogs for people with disabilities.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Toy Fox Terrier' reflects its small 'toy' size and its origin from the Smooth Fox Terrier, bred down in size by crossing with toy breeds like Chihuahua and Italian Greyhound.4

Name ideas for your new friend

PipGizmoTrixieBiscuitZippyPepperRascalMimiTurboSunnyCocoFizzy

A day in the life told by a Toy Fox Terrier

I wake up ready for adventure! I bounce off the bed and do a little spin to greet the day. My human laughs and tosses a squeaky toy across the room, and I chase it with all my might. After a quick walk where I investigate every leaf and crack, we come home for a game of hide-and-seek. I find my human behind the couch every time! In the afternoon, I curl up in their lap for a cozy nap, my favorite spot. When visitors arrive, I show off my best tricks until they smile. At night, I snuggle under the blanket, dreaming of tomorrow's fun. Being small means big joy!

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

UKC
Terrier Group; registered as Toy Fox Terrier from 24 Feb 1936 (earlier registered under the Fox Terrier name from the mid-1920s)1
AKC
Toy Group; recognised 20033

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Toy Fox Terrier, and at what times?

Feed adult Toy Fox Terriers at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Stomachs empty within a few hours, so regular meal times help keep them comfortable. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5

What should a Toy Fox Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.6

How often should I bathe a Toy Fox Terrier?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Toy Fox Terrier need brushing?

Brush your Toy Fox Terrier weekly to keep its short, smooth coat shiny and remove loose hair. Shedding is light and mostly seasonal, so weekly brushing is enough. This also helps distribute natural oils.27 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Toy Fox Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 3 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Toy Fox Terrier need?

This energetic little dog needs daily walks plus indoor games to stay happy. It adapts well to apartment life as long as it gets regular play. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily walks and playtime.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Toy Fox Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily with dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Gently dry ears if needed, but never push anything into the ear canal. Regular care prevents problems.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Toy Fox Terrier live?

Toy Fox Terriers typically live 13 to 15 years, a nice long lifespan for a small dog. With good care and regular vet checkups, they can enjoy many happy years with you.23

Is a Toy Fox Terrier good with children and other pets?

This breed bonds closely with its family and is best with older, gentle children due to its small size. Early socialisation helps it get along with other pets, and it's not easily put off by larger animals.21

Can a Toy Fox Terrier be left alone?

Toy Fox Terriers enjoy being involved with their family and may not do well left alone for long periods. They can be reserved with strangers, so early socialisation helps. If you're away often, consider a dog walker or daycare.21

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. UKC Toy Fox Terrier breed standard ukcdogs.comused for recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. Daily Paws: Toy Fox Terrier dailypaws.comused for size, lifespan, exercise, grooming, facts
  3. Wikipedia: Toy Fox Terrier en.wikipedia.orgused for names, recognition, colours, lifespan, history, facts
  4. AKC: Toy Fox Terrier akc.orgused for coat, temperament, origins as ratter
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.