Page 213 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

English Toy Terrier

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN
10–12in 7–9lb 12–13 years
(25–30cm) (3–4kg)

This perky, friendly, and confident little companion
RAT PITS
dog adapts well to either town or country life
During the Industrial Revolution in England,
using terriers such as the black and tan terriers
The oldest British toy breed, the English This type became known as the Miniature
to kill rats was a necessity in the fast-growing Toy Terrier differs from its larger cousin, Black and Tan Terrier and from 1960 the
towns. For betting men, it also became a sport.
the Manchester Terrier (see p.212), only English Toy Terrier (black and tan).
Terriers would be placed in “rat pits” with a
certain number of rats (as seen in the 19th in its size and its erect ears. The two have The breed is rare today and is included
century painting, Rat-catching at the Blue Anchor only been classified as distinct breeds on the UK Kennel Club’s list of Vulnerable
Tavern, below), and men would bet on how since the 1920s. Native Breeds.
quickly the dogs could kill all the rats. The idea
Black and tan terriers have been known in The English Toy Terrier has the sharply
was to find the smallest dog that could kill the England since the 16th century, when they alert, active nature of the terrier, although it
rats in the fastest time. Baiting blood sports were
were used to kill rats. The terriers became is perhaps more sensitive than other terriers.
outlawed in 1835 in the UK, but rat baiting
continued illegally until around 1912. popular as town pets in the 18th century. It bonds with its owner and family and makes
During Queen Victoria’s reign a fashion a good watchdog; however, it may try to
for breeding them to be increasingly small hunt small pets. Its compact size means that
severely weakened the breed; however, in this breed needs only limited daily exercise
the late 19th century enthusiasts set up more and adapts well to city living.
rigorous standards for
the smaller type.
High-set,
candle-flame ears

Almond-shaped,
dark eyes

Well-defined,
mahogany
tan markings

Mahogany
tan markings
on chest
Jet-black
and tan
Thick, glossy coat
Low-set,
tapering tail,
ends just
above hock

Two inner toes
longer than
outer ones

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