English Toy Terrier

A terrier history in a toy outline

The Royal Kennel Club connects the English Toy Terrier with the Manchester Terrier and the black-and-tan ratting dogs of industrial Britain. Miniaturisation produced a more finely boned companion while retaining a terrier's practical background.

Names have changed over time, including Miniature Black and Tan. The FCI records English Toy Terrier, black and tan, as number 13. It is a separate entry from other small black-and-tan breeds; a familiar colour does not make them interchangeable.

The candle-flame ears

The tall, upright ears are one of the most recognisable features. They accompany a fine, balanced outline and a close, glossy coat with clearly separated black and tan. The neat appearance should not lead to rough handling or the assumption that a small dog has no physical preferences.

Alertness with useful choices

The standard explicitly retains terrier character. Reward checking in, calm greetings and settling alongside exploration and play. Manage access to small animals thoughtfully rather than assuming a toy classification means all pursuit interests have disappeared.

Small-scale care with the same consideration

Introduce soft grooming tools and brief foot and mouth checks before they become necessary at an appointment. Support the dog's body comfortably and use a non-slip surface. Explain what handling it already knows so a groomer can build cooperation instead of relying on size to control it.

Plan comfortable care

Our gentle coat-care guide and first grooming appointment guide help you prepare questions about handling, maintenance and a suitable service. This breed profile is independent of named businesses.

Photograph and sources

The photograph illustrates one English Toy Terrier. See the linked credit for its creator, source and reusable licence. It does not establish the dog's health, age or temperament.

Read the FCI catalogue entry and FCI breed standard. General care and handling guidance is available from PDSA and Dogs Trust.

Additional primary reading: Royal Kennel Club: breed history.

Character and behaviour

The FCI describes an alert toy dog that retains terrier characteristics. Small stature does not erase curiosity, pursuit interests or the need for rewarding training. Introduce new people and handling at an individual pace and provide safe opportunities to investigate.

Breed descriptions are broad tendencies. An individual dog's behaviour also reflects experience, training and circumstances.

Care in daily life

Practise foot, mouth and body handling in short, rewarded steps. Check for equipment rubbing and use stable footing during care. A small dog should not be restrained more firmly simply because it can be lifted; ask a groomer to work within its comfort and seek advice for pain.

Care depends on the individual dog. If you notice a skin or health problem, speak to a vet.