Toy Poxer

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Toy Poxer is an interesting cross between the Toy Fox Terrier and the Pug. Both are small breeds, but with markedly different personalities. The Toy Fox Terrier, an American breed, is a gamy hunter that enjoys coursing and flushing small game such as squirrel or hare. Curious and independent, the Toy Fox Terrier is nevertheless a "people" dog and is devoted to its owner. The Pug, an Asian breed that most probably originated from China, is a lap dog that for most part of its history fulfilled its role as indulged pet and companion to royalty. The modern Pug is distinguished by its appearance, of a stocky body, curled tail, and flattened, wrinkly face with bulging eyes. It is still very much in vogue as a toy and a pet, valued by doting owners for its personality and affectionate nature.

Color

The Toy Poxer's colors can be varied. Parti-colored Toy Poxers will have gotten their color from the Toy Fox Terrier, while the Pug parent will contribute solid colors, most common of which are black, fawn, apricot and silver. A mask may be present, as well as markings of a different color from the base.

Coat

The Toy Poxer has only a single coat, with short, smooth, glossy fur close to the skin.

Personality

The Toy Poxer is a fun and inquisitive little dog that is suitable for different kinds of households. It is sturdy enough for children to play with, but really young children should still be supervised, as any animal can turn snappish when surprised or hurt. It is bold and confident, ready to engage other people and dogs when properly introduced. The Toy Poxer is a loyal and dedicated companion, sometimes to the point of getting jealous or territorial when it feels it is not getting enough attention from its owner. It can be quite barky then, but excessive barkiness can be usually addressed by sufficient training. Otherwise, the Toy Poxer is a joy to any owner, a sensitive dog that is not too demanding, and that can behave according to what it senses its owner's mood to be.

Care

The Toy Poxer's coat requires minimal maintenance, just regular brushing once or twice a week to encourage the natural oils in the skin to coat and protect the fur, while getting rid of shed hairs at the same time. Bathing more than once a month will strip the coat of its natural oils and dry out the skin besides. Special care should be taken of the wrinkles, if present on the body and/or face. These should be wiped daily with a clean, damp cloth, to prevent infections and build-up of grime.

Training

The Toy Poxer is by nature an assertive and take-charge type of dog. An owner will do well to always maintain dominance in relation to the dog, and watch out that he does not get manipulated into indulging its every demand. The Toy Poxer is an eager to please and trainable animal. It responds well to consistently given commands coupled with rewards such as small treats or toys.

Activity

The Toy Poxer will need to be taken on short walks daily, to let it satisfy the need to wander and explore. A leash or harness is recommended, as the Toy Poxer might take it in mind to go after small animals. However, really strenuous activity is not necessary, as the dog's natural energy reserves can be exhausted by simple play sessions or indoor games.