Overview
The English Toy Terrier is a small, sleek terrier in the toy group, closely related to the larger Manchester Terrier. It is fast, agile and elegant, with a movement often compared to the extended trot of a horse.
It is a vulnerable British native breed, with only a small number of puppies registered each year.
History
The breed was developed from the Old English Black and Tan Terrier and has its roots in the Victorian rat pit, where the smallest dog able to kill its quota of rats fastest was prized. One famous dog, Tiny the Wonder, weighed only about 2.5 kg and reportedly killed 200 rats in under an hour in 1848.
After the sport was outlawed, the dogs moved into the show ring. The current name was adopted in 1960. In North America the size varieties were merged into the Manchester Terrier, and the UK has opened its studbook to Toy Manchester Terriers to widen the gene pool.
Appearance
The English Toy Terrier is a small, refined dog standing about 25 to 30 cm tall and weighing 2.7 to 3.6 kg. It has almond-shaped eyes and upright, candle-flame ears.
The only permitted colour is black with clearly defined tan markings on the legs, chest and face.
Temperament
This is a lively, alert and affectionate little terrier, quick on its feet and keen to be part of family life. It keeps the instincts of a ratter and is often watchful and responsive.
It does best with gentle handling and is suited to calm households.
Care and exercise
The breed needs regular walks and play but is happy in modest living spaces. It feels the cold easily, so a coat in winter is wise.
The short, glossy coat is very easy to care for with an occasional wipe or brush.
