Let's talk English Toy Terriers
English Toy Terriers may be small—but don’t underestimate them. This compact little breed from the north of England (they are known as Manchester Toy Terriers in the United States while the bigger Manchester Terrier is a separate breed) was originally developed for ratting but now makes a lively and affable companion dog, a loyal and playful nature presented in a shiny black-and-tan package. Those outlandishly large ears give these dogs a look of alertness borne out by their personalities: As well as affectionate pets they also make naturally gifted guard dogs.Official name: English Toy Terrier
Other names: Toy Manchester Terrier
Origins: United Kingdom
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Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level: | |
Suited to apartment living? |  |
| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | Low | Family pet? * |
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| Compatibility with other pets: | |
Can stay alone? * |  |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 10 months |
| Adult age: | 10 months to 8 years |
| Mature age: | 8 to 12 years |
| Senior age: | From 12 years |
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about English Toy Terriers
1. Hamsters beware
English Toy Terriers are not known to be an aggressive breed, and they are amenable to training. However, old habits die hard: Their origins do lie in catching small animals, so they’re not the best choice for households with small pets such as hamsters or guinea pigs.
2. Extended trot
It’s not just their shiny coats and quizzical expressions that give these little canines their distinctively dapper air. Dainty little English Toy Terriers also have a distinctive and stylish gait—referred to by experts as an ‘extended trot’. That stylish movement even forms part of the specified standards of the breed.
History of the breed
English Toy Terriers, also known as Toy Manchester Terriers, go back a long way—so it’s understandable that the breed’s exact origins are not entirely clear. What is certain is that small smooth-haired terriers have been around for many centuries.
The English Toy Terrier breed as it is defined today was developed over time from larger breeds including the Italian Greyhound and Manchester Terrier and emerged in the north of England during the industrial revolution. They were first bred in Manchester, hence the alternative name for the breed. Back in the late 18th and early 19th century, English Toy Terriers were mainly prized for their vermin-catching abilities. Thankfully, they’ve left those origins far behind and these inquisitive and affectionate dogs now make lovely pets.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of English Toy Terriers
1. Ears
Long curved ears carried high, smooth black and tan coat.
2. Head
Delicate wedge-shaped head and pointed muzzle.
3. Body
Compact build with tail tapering to the base.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your English Toy Terriers
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Caring for your English Toy Terrier
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Grooming is simple for sleek little English Toy Terriers—just a weekly brush or wipe down with a damp cloth and the occasional bath will keep their coats gleaming. Nails need trimming, teeth need regular brushing, daily if possible, and their trademark ears should be checked for any signs of dirt building up or debris, and cleaned as needed. English Toy Terriers’ exercise needs are easy to meet too. These dogs need regular walks as well as play sessions — chasing a ball will always do—but with little legs, the distances covered won’t be too much of a challenge. English Toy Terriers respond well to positive training and seem to really want to please their humans—start early and training should be straightforward. Socialisation from puppyhood is important too.
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All about English Toy Terriers
Once trained, English Toy Terriers do get on well with children (although like any other breed they should not be left alone with them). However, they might not be the best choice for families with very young children: They’re so small that toddlers will tower over them and they might be intimidated by even accidental clumsiness.
If the English Toy Terrier has a downside, it might be their tendency to bark a little too much. Of course, that can be a useful attribute for a guard dog, but if you want to ensure your dog can distinguish between everyday sounds and activities and things that warrant a warning bark, early and consistent training will be essential.
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/