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TOY FOX TERRIER |
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The Toy was bred
directly from the Smooth Fox Terrier, which was brought to the USA from
England in the 1870s. At that time, size varied considerably. Although
AKC only recognizes the standard size, UKC registered both sizes as Fox
Terriers until 1936. The breed then was divided into two varieties: the
Fox Terrier and the Toy Fox Terrier.
The AmerToy
is widely known in America, with several clubs and organizations fostering
him. He has all of the desirable terrier attributes in a small, attractive
package. Many people from rural backgrounds recall having these little
dogs around the farm "forever." Often appearing in Fox Terrier
litters, they were termed runts.
In today's apartment and condo,
the AmerToy finds himself equally at home, although the instincts remain.
One breeder was called by a farmer who had purchased a pup as a pet for
his wife some time earlier. The dog had been exclusively a spoiled house
dog all of its life. One day the dog accompanied the farmer out to the
silo where it spotted a rat. This tiny, pampered pet ran to the rat, grabbed
and killed it with a quick shake, as though he had been doing it all of
his life. The farmer related that the dog now serves dual duty, and the
farm is nearly rat-free! AmerToys have
also proven their worth as Handi-Dogs, which are trained to assist the
deaf and handicapped. These dogs can pick up and return a dropped pencil,
fetch a shoe or the paper, and bark on command to indicate the need for
help. For people with limited abilities of their hands or who are confined
to a wheelchair, Handi-Dogs give their masters increased independence.
The AmerToy
is a breeze to groom, and provides its own exercise. Ears are erect, and
the tail is docked. His frisky clowning endears him to his owners.
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