The English Toy Terrier was bred exclusively as a pet. The peak of the breed's popularity came during the reign of Queen Victoria, a great lover of miniature dogs. At that time, the minimum size of the animal was prioritized over their health and temperament. However, breeders were so engrossed in breeding miniature copies that they did not pay serious attention to the occurrence of a number of genetic diseases. 11 Only in the 50s of the last century it was possible to change the situation for the better.

The English Toy Terrier owes its origin to representatives of larger breeds of the Manchester Terrier and the old English Black Pied Terrier.

Characteristics of the breed

This well-built, petite and touching dog is endowed with the character and temperament of an energetic and hardy terrier. The English Toy Terrier is rightly considered one of the best breeds of indoor dogs and the most loyal companion.

It should be borne in mind that Toy Terriers are strongly attached only to their master.

Toy Terriers are characterized by excellent hearing and impeccably play the role of a small but responsible watchman. They are always suspicious of strangers and sometimes outright dislike them. Small puppies bark loudly and a lot, but, according to breeders, this passes with age. Like all terriers, English Toy Terriers require firm and persistent training from an early age.

The Toy Terrier is an extremely alert little dog, loyal and devoted to one owner.

By the way

The English Toy Terrier is currently listed as an endangered English breed.

Description and care

The English Toy Terrier is ideally suited for city life: it is easy to keep even for a novice owner. Being very energetic and agile, Totterers need regular outdoor walks and moderate exercise.

The advantage of this breed is the fact that Toy Terriers do not have a specific odor.

The color of the terriers is black (black with pale markings). Colors according to the breed standard should not mix or pass one into another; the boundary between them should be clear. Underparts are located on the muzzle, lower jaw, throat and front part of the forelimbs, pale spots above the eyes and on the cheekbones. Wool care consists in daily brushing (once a day) and washing not more often than once in 3 4 months.

Due to the lack of undercoat, the Toy Terrier must be dressed in cold and windy weather to prevent hypothermia.

Two males in the same house - excluded!

According to Toy Terrier breeders and owners, this breed loves physical contact and the company of children. Suspicious, cautious and with perfect hearing, Totterers can be excellent watchdogs. Small puppies like to bark, but with proper training they will eventually get rid of this habit. The males of this breed are clearly dominant, so it is undesirable to keep two males in the same house. Milder and more docile females do not give their owners any trouble in upbringing or in care.

Health

In general, the Toy Terrier is in good health, but like all miniature dogs, it can have dental problems - these need to be carefully monitored. Knee sprains are also a weak point for the Toy Terrier, but good husbandry and avoidance of traumatic situations can minimize the risk of this condition.