10-25 lbs
10-15"
Unknown
Lively, energetic, and cheerful, the Foxy Rat Terrier is an affectionate hybrid breed developed from the Rat Terrier and the Toy Fox Terrier. With high energy levels, this hybrid will require intense play sessions several times per day to prevent boredom. His wildly curious personality makes the Foxy Rat Terrier an interesting companion as well as a great hunting dog. Owners of this extroverted canine say he is eager to learn and picks up commands easily. A bundle of energy in a cute and compact package, the Foxy Rat Terrier weighs an average of 10 to 15 pounds and stands between 10 to 15 inches tall.
The history of the Foxy Rat Terrier is vague and not well-documented at this time. What is certain is that the Foxy Rat Terrier was developed from the Rat Terrier and the Toy Fox Terrier. The Rat Terrier is the result of the breeding development of the Fox Terrier, Bull Terrier, and the Manchester Terrier. The original purpose of the breed was to catch prey and pests such as rodents. Depending on the area in which he lived, the Rat Terrier was bred to different breeds. For instance, the breed was bred to Whippets and Italian Greyhounds in the Midwest. In South and Central America, the Rat Terrier was bred to a Beagle where it developed its keen sense of smell. Between 1910 and 1940, the Rat Terrier was commonly seen working on the farm grounds in communities but the population dwindled as his usefulness changed with the times. In the 1970s, there was a re-emergence of the breed. The Toy Fox Terrier can be traced back to the 1500s in England when it was part of the Smooth Fox Terrier line. Crossed with Miniature Pinschers, Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds and Manchester Terriers, he was developed into an alert, compact canine with plenty of energy and a love of work. Once a ratter and a hunter, this athletic dog was coveted for his quick and agile movement. Also known as the Amertoy, he is the American Kennel Club's 148th breed and was registered in 2003 in the Toy Group.
The Foxy Rat Terrier is a small-sized hybrid developed from the Rat Terrier and the Toy Fox Terrier. The breed's coat is comprised of short, fine hair that can be seen in colors such as black and white, brown and white, and white and cream. His dark eyes are expressive and graceful, as is his build. His small, athletic body is quick, yet he has an elegant stance. His large erect ears give him an inquisitive air and his muzzle is small and pointed. He has a dark nose and dark but bright eyes. While his exact appearance may vary, the Foxy Rat Terrier's tail is often short, and his body petite and well built. He mostly resembles the appearance of the Rat Terrier in both appearance and personality.
The Foxy Rat Terrier is not considered a hypoallergenic breed and will shed moderately throughout the year. Brushing him weekly with a slicker brush should suffice and the occasional comb through will help to remove loose fur at times of shed. Not known to have an odor, he will need bathing only when he decides to do some extra digging in the dirt. Being a smaller dog, he may be prone to dental decay so should have his teeth brushed a few times a week with a veterinarian approved toothpaste designed for canines. He will need his nails clipped about twice a month. If you start the grooming regimen with your Foxy Rat Terrier at a young age, he'll be more than happy to sit still for this short time and will come to love the one on one.
The Foxy Rat Terrier is an excellent family companion with an energetic personality. His high energy levels require multiple intense play sessions in order to ensure he remains happy. This fun canine is more than capable of showing you a good time and loves to interact and entertain. He prefers to be surrounded by people at all times and won't want to be left alone too often. The Foxy Rat Terrier is good with young children although both the dog and the children should be taught how to play nicely and respectfully. While your dog may be eager to please you, he will still need to learn boundaries with other people and animals. He may be hesitant to become friends with strangers and will require patience to overcome this concern. This hybrid is highly intelligent but sometimes stubborn, so make sure you use positive reinforcement and lots of treats!
The Foxy Rat Terrier possesses a high level of energy that will require between 45 to 60 minutes of activity per day. Your playful dog is a bundle of energy who will be game for a walk about the neighborhood twice a day at minimum. On leash activity when on walks, or in a fenced yard with you for company are best - remember, he has an innate love of the chase and may dart into the street after small animals. Despite knowing the command to come when called, he may get caught up in the search for prey and not heed the call. Apartment living is not ideal; this hybrid will thrive in a home with a yard where he can have multiple mini-breaks throughout the day.
Written by Loreziel Ortega
Published: 11/26/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
More articles by Loreziel Ortega
