Smallest of The Toy Terriers

Please consider adopting a dog, cat or any other animal for a pet through a rescue site.  Anyone can use the websites to give a pet a second chance at a life full of love.  There are hundreds  of humane societies and rescue sites, so with some limitations I name two for your convenience.  “RED” stands for rescue every dog and can be clicked on at their website:  http://www.rescueeverydog.org   another honest site is:  http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com  A special thank you to wikipedia and The American Kennel Club along with http://wwwdogbreedsinfo.com for supplying me with some information to write this summary on the English Toy Terrier dog.

English Toy Terrier photo is courtesy wikipedia.com

There are smaller Terriers called the teacup Terriers, however I summarize the smallest of the toy group of dogs here for you.

Terriers are said to be like an energetic child in a dog breed. Terra means earth in Latin, hence the Terrier was bred and named for the land hunting of vermin.  This tiny Terrier weighs about 6 pounds and truly does not act like a little dog.  In fact, if the pet owner does not take the pack position, the terrier will have behavior issues making you wish you had.  Height is less than one foot tall, as you see in the photo included.   Most Terrier breeds originate in England and Ireland where they were bred for sporting dogs to kill rats. Competition in 1848 documented a black and tan toy terrier killing 300 rats in an hour.  Rat killing was outlawed giving the English Toy Terrier an instant spotlight in the show ring by the American Kennel Club. With the speed, elegance and agility, this breed was awarded honors in conformations.

The colors of this tiny Terrier are tan and black with markings on the  chest,legs and snout. The short coat lies close to the body while the candle-flame shaped ears are erect.  Tail is tapered and medium length to balance the contour of the toy size.

Temperament is active, fearless and energetic so be ready to have a fast moving dog breed with the English Toy Terrier.  The gait is expressed as a horse galloping without the reference of size considered.  If left without attention for too long,  your Terrier will dig and have other disruptive behaviors.   A fine companion to any age child, the English Toy Terrier should be supervised around toddlers since the dog could be injured if dropped even from the height of a couch.  Much cheerfulness will be abundantly given to you with this dog breed. Your dog will be loyal and entertaining, but sometimes aloof with strangers.

Grooming is minimal as is shedding for this dog.  They like attention, so brushing can be appreciated sporadically if the pet owner sees a need.  The lifespan for this dog is 12 to 15 years.