Frequently Asked Questions on the English Toy Terrier

Q: I have seen pictures of ETTs but it is difficult to tell exactly how tall they are.  Can you give me an idea of the correct size?. A: The breed standard as set by the British Kennel Club states that the Ideal height is 25-30 cms (10-12 ins) at the shoulder.  The weight being 6-8lbs (2.7-3.6Kg). It is important to remember that this is the ideal height, some individuals may be bigger or smaller than the KC Standard "ideal size".  The KC Standard is what breeders aim for.
Q: I have only seen pictures of ETT that are Black and Tan, are there any other colours? A: No. The only allowable colour is black with tan markings.  The Kennel Club clarify the standard. "The black ebony, the tan likened to a new chestnut deeply rich. Colours not running or blending into each other, but meeting abruptly, forming clear and well defined lines of colour division. Forelegs tanned to knees in front. The tan then continuing inside and at back of forelegs to point just below elbows, the thin black line up each toe (pencilling) and a clearly defined black mark (thumb mark) on centre of each pastern, and under chin. Hindlegs well tanned in front and inside with black bar dividing tan at centre of lower thigh. Heavy tan on outside of hindquarters (breeching) undesirable. Muzzle well tanned. Nose black, the black continuing along top of muzzle, curving below eyes to base of throat. A tan spot above each eye and a small tan spot on each cheek. Under-jaw and throat tanned, lip line black. Hair inside ears tan (tan behind ears undesirable). Each side of chest has some tan. Vent and under root of tail, tan. White hairs forming a patch anywhere totally undesirable."                                                          © The UK Kennel Club 1994
Q: When I look at ETTs they initially looks like miniature dobermans or miniature pinschers- Are there any Doberman lines in them? A: Because of the similar markings and erect ears many people ask if they are a "miniature doberman" they are entirely different breeds.  The Doberman -  © David Dalton The English Toy Terrier -  © David Dalton The Miniature Pinscher - © Pedigree Petfoods The above images are reproduced with courtesy of the ©Kennel Club
Q:  I'm a bit hard of hearing and it would be useful if my dog would let me know if someone was around. Are they good house dogs? A: ETTs are a very alert breed with very keen hearing and will inform you if there is a strange presence. Some have been accepted by the "Hearing Dogs For The Deaf" charity. For more information on hearing dogs for the deaf and if you meet the criteria follow the picture link below
Q: The breed standard calls them alert, do they bark a lot? I worry about upsetting my neighbours. A: All dogs need to be trained when young not to develop the habit of barking  Whilst they are alert they are not known to bark unnecessarily.

Q: Do they train easily? I'm interested in doing some obedience training or agility. A: The ETT is an intelligent breed that generally responds to training but each dog has its own individual temperament.

Q: Are they safe with children? I've got two youngsters aged 6 & 8. A: If children are trained to treat dogs with respect there should be no problem. No dogs take kindly to rough treatment. Take a look at the new Kennel Club "Safe and Sound" web site

Q: How much exercise do they need?  A: Daily walks are recommended and are usually enjoyed by the owner as much as the dog.

Q: Are there any health problems in the breed? A: ETTs are a fairly healthy breed.  As with all breed of dogs we strongly recommend routine maintenance (e.g. regular worming, teeth cleaning, appropriate vaccinations etc.) iThis is often all that is required.  The breeder of your puppy will be able to advise of any problems that may be encountered.

Q: I have heard of the term Patella Luxation, what does this mean and how can I find out more. A: Please follow the link below to see information about this condition.   Patella Luxation information pages

Q: What is best gender to keep as a pet, a male or a female? I don't want to breed. A: Some people prefer a dog, some a bitch.  This is of course personal choice.  The thing to remember is that Bitches will come into season frequently and you need to ensure you are prepared for this in the future

Q: Are they easy to feed and what is the best sort of food for them? A:Again this is personal choice.  Initially the puppy sould be continued on the food that the breeder has been using.  Whilst the ETT is generally not a fussy eaters, sudden changes in diet can upset any dogs stomach.   We recommend you weigh up the pros and cons of Complete Dog food v's  tinned food and go with what suits your lifestyle.  A good quality complete food will provide a balanced diet.  You should always seek the advice from the breeder of your puppy. You should have a diet sheet when you take your puppy home.

Q: I like to go out rabbiting, I know they were used for ratting but would they still do so or perhaps pick up a rabbit? A: You can't expect them to course rabbits - they weren't bred for that - but they do still retain their ratting instinct so may take to some rabbiting.

Q: Do they need much grooming? A: They are very clean little dogs, so an occasional bath with a suitable animal shampoo is all that is normally required.

Q: Do they harbour fleas? A: As they have short coats it is unusual for an ETT to have fleas. However it is important to be vigilant and discuss concerns and appropriate treatment with your veterinary practice.

Q: I would be willing to give a home to a rescued dog, who do I ask? A: Despite being a Vulnerable Native English Breed we still have dogs that come up for rehoming for a number of reasons.  Contact the club welfare officer, see contacts page or via the Secretary. For more information on the Vulnerable Native Breeds follow the picture link below

Q: Are they destructive and chew up furniture and so on when left alone or as puppies? A: This breed is not prone to chewing, except perhaps when teething. Dogs will chew when left alone and bored. Never leave a puppy or young dog alone for any length of time.

Q: Do they moult? A: Yes, but with their very short coats hairs are not a big problem.

Q: How much will an ETT puppy cost? A: That will depend very much on the individual puppy, the main consideration - whatever the price may be - is that you bring a well bred, healthy puppy into your home and family.  When working out the cost of your puppy it is important to remember if the price includes vaccinations and recent worming. Unexpected vet bills can end up costing you a fortune. Always ensure what is included in the cost when you choose your puppy.

The detailed official breed standard can be viewed at the kennel club site: www.the-kennel-club.org.uk

©Copyright of English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) Club