Miniature Fox Terrier

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Miniature Fox Terrier is also known as Mini Foxie and Mini Fox Terrier. It is a small and lightweight terrier dog of Australia that is used as vermin hunter. This tenacious and persistent hunter was developed from crosses between Smaller Fox Terriers, Fox Terrier type dogs, Toy Manchestor Terriers and later the English Toy Terrier and the Whippet. Primary purpose of developing this breed was to create a small and speedy Fox Terrier that could be used for hunting smaller pests such as rabbits and rats. The dog has gained considerable popularity throughout Australia not only due to its skillful hunting abilities but also for its very loyal, devoted and family oriented temperament that make this dog a valuable part of the family.

This diminutive dog stands between 9-12 inches and comes with a unique and noble head with erectile ears that either stand up or fold at the tips. Oval shaped, medium size eyes are dark in colour. It has slightly arched neck that slopes down to deep, muscular chest and short back. Its tail, sometimes docked, is carried high. Only three colour combinations are allowed for this fine and short-coated breed. These are Black and white, Tan and White and Tricoloure (black, tan and white).

Relatively unknown outside its country of origin, Australia and neighboring NewZealand, this breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by UKC.

Color

This dog comes in three permitted colours. These include black and white, tan and white and tri colour (black, white and tan).

Coat

The Miniature Fox Terrier always comes in a short and fine coat that is easy to groom.

Personality

The Miniature Fox Terrier is not only valued for its remarkable skills as vermin exterminator but it is also known and loved as a fun loving, energetic, loyal and devoted family pet. Their ability to squeeze in and out of small and cramped places to find and kill the vermin makes them an essential part of the farms in Australia and New Zealand. This small yet sturdy and clean dog endears every one it comes across with its curious, loving, loyal and affectionate nature. It is very playful dog with children and gets along well with other dogs. Its high prey drive makes it unsuitable around other non-canine pets in the family. It is an easy to train dog that can remember to perform from simple to complex tricks without forgetting. Very human oriented, the dog loves to be appreciated and given attention. It is a handy watchdog as well due to its keenly attuned senses and curiosity. Otherwise quiet, the dog knows when to bark to alert the family if it senses anything unusual around its surrounding.

Care

This breed has short and smooth coat that is easy to groom. Brushing the coat once or twice a week will prove sufficient to keep it clean and remove dead hair. This dog is an average shedder.

Training

The Miniature Fox Terrier is a very intelligent and bright dog with eagerness to learn coupled with willingness to please its owner. This dog can easily learn simple and more complex tricks and commands with positive reinforcement techniques.

Activity

It is a tireless breed with high levels of energy. This dog needs to play and run in large open areas to relieve its excessive energy. Due to their small size, these dogs can fit into an apartment lifestyle provided they are kept active and provided necessary exercise.