English Toy Terrier

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Elegant, fine‑boned toy terrier with the spirit of a much larger dog
• Extremely loyal and people focused, often forming a very close bond with one person
• Generally low‑maintenance coat, but needs protection from cold and extreme heat
• Lively, alert companion with strong terrier instincts and a love of interactive play
• A rare breed in many countries, so finding a responsible English Toy Terrier breeder may take time

Appearance & Coat

The English Toy Terrier is a small, elegant dog with a surprisingly athletic build. At first glance many people think they are looking at a miniature version of a classic black and tan terrier, and that impression is not far from the truth. The breed is compact and fine boned, but never fragile or weak. A well bred English Toy Terrier should look like a scaled down working terrier rather than a delicate ornament.

Height is usually around 25 to 30 cm at the shoulder, with a weight that tends to fall between 2.7 and 4.5 kg when in healthy condition. The body is slightly longer than the dog is tall, which allows for a free, ground covering stride. The back is level, the chest fairly deep, and the waist gently tucked up. You should see an obvious, but not exaggerated, outline when the dog stands in profile. The neck is quite long and arched, giving the breed its proud, almost aristocratic appearance.

One of the most striking features of the English Toy Terrier is the head. It is long, narrow and wedge shaped, with a flat skull and a tapering muzzle. The eyes are small, almond shaped, and dark, giving an alert and intelligent expression. Ears are high set, small, and naturally erect, forming neat little points that contribute a lot to the breed’s distinctive look. When the dog is attentive, the ears stand sharply and give a lively, keen impression.

The coat is one of the easiest aspects of the breed to manage. It is short, tight, and sleek to the touch, lying close to the body with a natural shine when the dog is healthy. There is only one accepted color: jet black with rich, warm tan markings. The tan is clearly defined and placed on the muzzle, cheeks, eyebrows, inside the ears, on the chest, lower legs, and under the tail. Smudgy or pale tan is not typical of the breed standard. Because the coat is short, any changes in skin health or condition show up quickly, which can actually help owners spot problems early.

From a practical point of view, grooming an English Toy Terrier is straightforward. A weekly rub down with a soft grooming mitt or rubber brush is usually enough to remove loose hairs and keep the coat glossy. During seasonal shedding you may want to brush more often to keep hair off furniture and clothes, although they shed less than many double coated breeds. A quick wipe with a damp cloth after walks can remove dust and pollen, especially helpful for owners with mild allergies.

Despite their short coat, English Toy Terriers are not completely maintenance free. Their fine fur offers limited protection from cold and wet weather. In chilly climates most dogs appreciate a well fitting coat or jumper for winter walks, and they should not be left outside in low temperatures. Their sleek black coat can also absorb heat quickly in strong sun, so access to shade and fresh water is essential in summer. Regular checks of the ears, nails, and teeth round off basic care. Ears should be kept clean and dry, nails trimmed so they do not click loudly on hard floors, and teeth brushed several times a week to prevent tartar build‑up, which can be a concern in small breeds.

Temperament & Personality

Living with an English Toy Terrier feels a bit like having a big dog in a compact package. This is an alert, brave and spirited little terrier that still carries the attitude of its rat‑catching ancestors. While their job today is usually to be a companion, those old instincts show in their curiosity, quick reactions and tendency to notice every movement and sound around the home.

With their own family, English Toy Terriers are typically affectionate and intensely loyal. Many develop a very strong attachment to one person and like to follow them from room to room. They enjoy being near their humans rather than shut away in another area, and they thrive on regular interaction. That said, they are usually not clingy in the same way as some lapdog breeds. A well adjusted English Toy Terrier will relax on a nearby sofa or dog bed as long as they know where their people are.

Around children, this breed can be a joyful playmate if handled with respect. Their small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling, accidental falls, or being carried incorrectly. For that reason they are often better suited to families with slightly older, dog sensible children who understand how to be gentle. With proper supervision and clear rules, many English Toy Terriers enjoy games of fetch, trick training sessions, and quiet cuddles with kids. The key is teaching children to approach slowly, let the dog move away if it wants, and never treat the dog like a toy.

In relation to strangers, temperaments vary. Some English Toy Terriers are naturally reserved at first meeting, watching carefully before deciding whether to interact. Others are more outgoing and will greet new people cheerfully. Early, positive socialisation helps prevent shyness or nervousness. The breed should not be aggressive, but their terrier nature can make them quick to bark when someone approaches the door or passes by a window. They can be very effective little watchdogs, so consistent training is helpful to avoid excessive noise, especially in apartments or close neighbourhoods.

With other dogs and pets, management depends on socialisation and individual personality. Many English Toy Terriers get along well with other friendly dogs, particularly if introduced calmly and given time to build trust. They enjoy energetic play with dogs of similar size. Care is needed when mixing them with much larger, boisterous breeds, as accidental injury is a risk. Living with cats or small pets can be more complicated, because the breed retains a strong prey drive. Some individuals can learn to coexist peacefully with a resident cat if raised together from a young age and supervised carefully. Others may always see small animals as something to chase. Prospective owners should be honest about the household situation and work with a reputable breeder to choose a puppy with a suitable temperament.

Common challenges with this breed often follow from its intelligence and sensitivity. English Toy Terriers tend to learn routines quickly, which is useful in training but can also lead to habits you did not intend. They may bark for attention, become fussy eaters if constantly offered alternatives, or become possessive of a favourite person or spot on the sofa. They read human emotions very well and sometimes react to stress in the home with nervous behaviours such as pacing or licking. A calm, predictable environment, combined with clear, fair rules, helps them feel secure. When treated kindly and included as part of the family, the English Toy Terrier is a bright, loyal and entertaining companion that brings a lot of personality to daily life.

Training & Exercise

Although the English Toy Terrier is small, it is far from a lazy lapdog. This breed has genuine working terrier roots, which means it comes with a sharp mind and a natural desire to move, explore and investigate. Owners who only see the toy label sometimes underestimate how much mental and physical exercise these dogs need to stay happy and well balanced.

In terms of physical activity, most adult English Toy Terriers do well with around one to one and a half hours of combined exercise per day, divided into a couple of walks and some play sessions. They are not distance runners, but they are surprisingly sturdy and usually enjoy brisk walks, short hikes on safe terrain, and energetic games such as fetch or tug. Because they are small, they can burn a lot of energy in a modest space, which makes them adaptable to urban living as long as their exercise needs are met. On cold or wet days, shorter outdoor sessions can be balanced with indoor games and training.

Puppies and young adolescents need special handling. Their joints and growth plates are still developing, so structured exercise should be kept age appropriate. Short, frequent walks on soft ground, gentle play, and lots of free exploration at their own pace are better than long, forced marches. As a rough guide, many trainers suggest a few minutes of structured walking per month of age, alongside free play and rest. Your breeder or veterinarian can give specific advice for your puppy.

When it comes to training, the English Toy Terrier responds best to positive, reward based methods. They are bright, curious and fast to learn, but also sensitive. Harsh corrections, shouting or physical punishment will usually damage trust and may lead to anxiety or defensive behaviour. Instead, focus on:

• Clear, consistent cues for each behaviour
• Food rewards, toys or praise, depending on what your dog values most
• Short, frequent sessions to keep things fun and focused

Basic obedience such as sit, down, stay, recall and walking on a loose lead should start early. This breed’s quick reactions and prey drive make a strong recall particularly important. Regular practice in safe, enclosed areas, with high value rewards, helps your dog learn that coming back to you is always worthwhile, even when something interesting is happening.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. English Toy Terriers enjoy problem solving and often excel at:

• Trick training, such as spin, paw, bow or weaving through your legs
• Nose work games, like finding treats hidden around a room
• Food puzzle toys or stuffed Kongs that require them to work for their meal
• Low impact dog sports such as rally obedience or beginner agility, adapted to their size

Because they are observant, English Toy Terriers can easily pick up on unintentional patterns in your behaviour. For instance, they may learn that barking at you eventually leads to a walk, even if you tried to ignore the barking at first. Being deliberate and consistent in how you respond is key. Reward calm behaviour, redirect unwanted habits, and avoid reinforcing things you do not want to continue.

Socialisation is another important part of early training. Calm, positive exposure to different people, children, dogs, sounds and environments helps prevent fearfulness or overreaction later in life. Puppy classes that use kind methods can be helpful, both for learning basic manners and for safe interaction with other dogs. With the right approach, the English Toy Terrier becomes a cooperative, responsive companion that genuinely enjoys working with its owner.

Health

The English Toy Terrier is generally considered a relatively healthy and long lived breed, especially when bred responsibly. Many individuals reach 12 to 14 years of age and some live even longer. As with all purebred dogs, however, there are certain health issues that prospective owners should be aware of and discuss with breeders.

Joint and bone health is one important area. Because of their fine build and small size, English Toy Terriers can be prone to patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place. This can cause intermittent lameness or skipping on one hind leg. In mild cases it may not cause pain, but more severe luxation can require surgical correction. Responsible breeders often have their breeding dogs examined by a veterinarian for patellar soundness and avoid breeding from affected individuals.

Another condition seen in some lines is Legg Calvé Perthes disease, a developmental problem affecting the hip joint. It typically appears in young dogs and leads to pain and lameness. Treatment usually involves surgery. While the condition is not extremely common, it is something to be aware of in toy breeds. Discussing the history of joint health in your chosen breeder’s lines is useful.

Like many small breeds, English Toy Terriers can face dental challenges. Their small jaws often leave limited space for a full set of adult teeth, which can lead to crowding, tartar build up and gum disease if not managed. Daily or at least frequent tooth brushing with dog friendly toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to maintain oral health. Regular dental checks with your veterinarian, and professional cleaning when needed, can prevent more serious problems later in life.

A few neurological and metabolic conditions have been reported occasionally in the breed, such as epilepsy or liver shunts, though they are not widespread. Responsible breeders monitor their lines and avoid breeding from dogs that show concerning signs or have produced affected offspring. Eye health should also be checked, as with any purebred dog, although the English Toy Terrier does not have the same high level of risk seen in some other breeds.

Because this is a rare breed in many countries, the gene pool can be relatively small. This places extra importance on breeder cooperation, careful planning, and health testing where available. Prospective owners should feel comfortable asking breeders about:

• Veterinary examinations carried out on breeding dogs
• Any health screening schemes recommended by the national kennel club or breed club
• The typical lifespan and causes of death in their lines
• How they manage genetic diversity and avoid inbreeding

Routine care plays a major role in keeping an English Toy Terrier healthy throughout life. A consistent vaccination and parasite control plan, set up with your vet, protects against common infectious diseases and parasites. Maintaining a lean, athletic body condition through appropriate diet and exercise helps prevent strain on the joints and reduces the risk of obesity related issues such as diabetes or heart disease.

Because they have a short coat and a fine frame, this breed can be sensitive to temperature extremes. Hypothermia in winter and heatstroke in summer are real risks if they are not protected. Simple measures such as a warm coat in cold weather, avoiding walking on very hot pavements, and never leaving the dog in a parked car can save lives.

In summary, while the English Toy Terrier does have some health issues to monitor, careful breeding and responsible ownership can give you a lively, healthy companion for many years. Choosing a reputable breeder who is open about health, and maintaining regular veterinary care, are the best tools for supporting your dog’s wellbeing.

History & Origins

The English Toy Terrier has a history that reflects both the working terrier tradition and the changing tastes of urban society. To understand this little dog, it helps to imagine the busy streets and crowded inns of 19th century England, where rats were a genuine problem and small, agile terriers were valued as practical pest controllers.

The breed traces its roots back to the old Black and Tan Terriers, a group of dogs that were used for ratting and other vermin control throughout Britain. These terriers were quick, tenacious and brave, qualities that still shine through in the modern English Toy Terrier. During the Victorian era, ratting pits became a popular, though now rightly condemned, form of entertainment. Spectators gathered to watch small terriers compete to see which could kill the most rats in the shortest time. The most successful dogs were often relatively small and very fast, which encouraged breeders to refine a more compact type.

As the 19th century progressed and social attitudes shifted, blood sports such as rat pits began to lose favour. At the same time, a growing urban middle class started to keep dogs primarily as companions rather than purely as workers. The neat, polished appearance and manageable size of these smaller black and tan terriers caught the eye of city dwellers. They started to appear not just in yards and stables, but also in drawing rooms and on laps. Gradually, selective breeding shaped a dog that retained the lively terrier spirit but was more suited to life as a household pet.

By the late 1800s, this toy sized black and tan terrier type was recognized as distinct from its larger working relatives. Over time, kennel clubs formalised the breed under names that evolved into the English Toy Terrier. In some countries, there has been a historical connection with the development of other toy terriers, including the Manchester Terrier and, much later, the Miniature Pinscher in continental Europe. However, the English Toy Terrier has its own specific standard and heritage rooted in Britain.

The 20th century brought challenges. Changing fashions in companion dogs, world wars, and the rise of many new toy breeds led to a decline in numbers. At several points the English Toy Terrier population dropped so low that breed clubs and dedicated fanciers became genuinely worried about its survival. Careful breeding, international cooperation and promotion of the breed’s qualities as a companion have helped to keep it going, though it remains rare in many parts of the world today.

In modern times, the English Toy Terrier is primarily a companion dog. Its original ratting function is mostly a thing of the past, although the instinct to chase small, fast moving objects is still very much alive in many individuals. You will sometimes see the breed taking part in dog shows, where their elegance and precise movement are appreciated by judges and spectators. A growing number of owners also enjoy low impact sports and activities with their English Toy Terriers, such as obedience, rally and scent work, which give the dogs a chance to use their brains and bodies in constructive ways.

Today, enthusiasts of the breed work hard to promote its many positive traits: robust health for a toy breed, a smart and engaging character, and a tidy coat that suits modern homes. At the same time, they aim to preserve the terrier nature that makes the English Toy Terrier so distinctive. For anyone drawn to history, the breed offers a living link to the working terriers of old England, wrapped up in a sleek, refined little companion.

Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with an English Toy Terrier is a rewarding experience, but it does come with specific responsibilities. This is not a decorative accessory, even if its size might suggest otherwise. It is a bright, active and emotionally sensitive dog that needs time, attention and thoughtful care.

Daily life with an English Toy Terrier typically centres around companionship. They like to be where the action is, whether that means following you from room to room, supervising your work from a nearby bed, or curling up next to you on the sofa in the evening. They do not enjoy long hours of isolation. Owners who work full time away from home may need to arrange for dog walkers, pet sitters or a reliable friend or family member to break up the day. Boredom and loneliness can lead to excessive barking, chewing or other unwanted behaviours.

Housing needs are quite flexible. English Toy Terriers can do very well in apartments and small homes as long as their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. A secure, well fenced garden is a bonus but not essential. If you do have outdoor space, remember that these dogs are agile and can sometimes squeeze through small gaps or under poorly secured fences. Their strong chase instinct means they should not be allowed to roam freely.

Financially, you can expect moderate ongoing costs. Being small, they eat less food than larger breeds, which helps keep feeding bills manageable. However, high quality nutrition is still important, so plan for a good quality complete dog food or a carefully balanced home prepared diet under veterinary guidance. Other regular expenses include:

• Routine veterinary care, vaccinations and parasite control
• Occasional dental cleaning if needed
• Pet insurance, which can help cover unexpected veterinary bills
• Basic grooming tools and supplies

Because the breed is rare, initial purchase price from a reputable breeder may be higher than for more common dogs. Travelling to meet breeders or to collect a puppy is also something to factor into your planning.

Setting up your home for an English Toy Terrier involves some specific equipment. Essentials include:

• A comfortable, supportive bed in a draft free corner, with perhaps an extra blanket as many individuals like to burrow
• A secure crate or pen if you plan to use crate training for travel or safe confinement
• Well fitting harness and light, comfortable lead for walks
• Weather appropriate coats or jumpers for colder months
• A variety of toys, including soft toys, chew toys, and brain games or puzzle feeders

Because of their slender build and fine skin, collars should fit correctly and not be used for harsh corrections. Many owners prefer a harness for walks, which distributes pressure more evenly and protects the delicate neck.

Prospective owners should also consider how the breed fits with their lifestyle. English Toy Terriers are at their best in homes where:

• People are around for a good part of the day
• There is a willingness to provide daily walks and engaging play or training
• Children, if present, are taught to handle small dogs with care
• Noise is managed, as they can be vocal if allowed to practise barking
• The climate is not extremely harsh, or protective measures can be taken

For active retirees, couples, or individuals who enjoy having a close canine companion, the breed can be an excellent match. They are small enough to travel with easily and often adapt well to car journeys and holiday accommodation, provided early experiences are positive.

If you are thinking of adding an English Toy Terrier to a multi dog household, careful introductions and supervision are important, especially with much larger dogs. This breed often enjoys canine company, but the size difference can be risky during rough play. With cats and other small pets, success depends heavily on individual temperament and training, and supervision is always recommended.

Living with an English Toy Terrier is really about building a strong partnership. When given structure, kindness and involvement in daily activities, they give back an enormous amount of loyalty, humour and affection. For those willing to put in the time and care, this small terrier becomes a big presence in the home and a much loved member of the family.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does the English Toy Terrier have around family and strangers?

They are typically alert, sensitive and affectionate with their own family, often forming a very strong bond with one main person. Around strangers they can be reserved and cautious rather than openly friendly, which reflects their history as a watchful little ratter. With careful socialisation they usually become polite and manageable in public.

Is the English Toy Terrier a good choice for apartment living?

Their small size and moderate exercise needs suit apartment life very well, provided they get daily walks and mental stimulation. They are usually clean and relatively quiet indoors, although their alert nature means they may bark at unusual sounds. Consistent training and routine help them stay calm in a smaller home.

How much exercise does an English Toy Terrier really need?

They are more athletic than they look and typically need around 45 to 60 minutes of mixed activity per day. Short, brisk walks combined with play sessions or scent and hunting games suit them well. Without enough stimulation they may become restless or develop nuisance behaviours.

Are English Toy Terriers good with children and other pets?

They can live with respectful, dog‑savvy older children but are often too fine‑boned and sensitive for rough play from very young kids. Their strong prey drive can be an issue with small pets like rodents, and they may be variable with cats depending on socialisation. With other dogs they often do best with calm, well‑mannered companions rather than boisterous playmates.

What health problems are most common in English Toy Terriers?

The breed can be prone to knee issues such as patellar luxation, dental overcrowding, and some hereditary eye conditions. Their fine frame and low body fat also make them more vulnerable to injury from rough handling or jumping from height. Health‑tested breeding stock and regular veterinary checks help reduce risks.

How fragile is the English Toy Terrier’s body and what handling precautions are needed?

They have a slim, delicate build with fine legs, so jumping from furniture, being dropped or heavy rough play can cause injury. Children should be supervised closely and taught to support the dog’s body properly when lifting. Non‑slip flooring and ramps or steps to sofas and beds can further protect their joints.

Does the English Toy Terrier get cold easily and need special clothing?

The very short, close coat offers little insulation, so they can feel the cold quickly, especially when wet or in wind. Many need a well‑fitting coat for winter walks and may prefer shorter outings in harsh weather. Indoors, a warm, draft‑free bed is important for overall comfort and joint health.

How much grooming does an English Toy Terrier require and do they shed?

Grooming is minimal because the coat is short and smooth, and a quick weekly brush usually removes loose hairs. They do shed lightly throughout the year rather than in heavy seasonal blows. Regular nail trimming, dental care, and ear checks are more important than elaborate coat work.

Are English Toy Terriers easy to train or are they stubborn?

They are intelligent and capable learners but can be independent and sensitive, which some owners interpret as stubbornness. Short, varied sessions using reward‑based methods suit them best, as harsh handling can quickly undermine trust. Consistency and clear routines usually produce a very responsive companion.

Why is the English Toy Terrier considered a rare breed and does that affect finding a puppy?

Numbers declined sharply after their original role as ratters disappeared and they never became widely fashionable as companion dogs. Today they are classed as vulnerable in some countries, which means there are relatively few litters each year. Prospective owners often need to join a waiting list and work with breed‑knowledgeable breeders who focus on health and temperament.

Sources

• The Kennel Club (UK)
• English Toy Terrier Club (UK)
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
• Svenska Kennelklubben (Swedish Kennel Club)
• Verein für Deutsche Spitze e.V. (Germany)