COUNTRY: USA
WEIGHT: 3l/2~7 pounds
HEIGHT: 10 inches
COATY Short, smooth
COLOR: Tri preferred, with white predominating
OTHER NAMES: AmerToy
GROUP: Terrier
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.