English Toy Terrier

The English Toy Terrier originates from the Black and Tan Terriers in England where the breed was often used as a rat catcher. It gained popularity in the 19th century, but preference for smaller sized dogs brought the breed near extinction. Larger-sized specimens began to gain ground in the early 20th century and led to its revival. The first breed club, the Miniature Black and Tan Club, was founded in England in 1938.

The English Toy Terrier is a small breed worldwide. It is classified as a vulnerable breed in its country of origin, although the annual registrations have increased in recent years. In 2005, the Kennel Club registered 103 ETTs. In Finland, the breed continues to be rare with a few litters and annual registrations ranging from one to two dozen.

In conformation, the English Toy Terrier is a sleek, elegant and compact toy dog with terrier characteristics. It has a long, narrow wedge-shaped head. Erect, candle-flame ears are a breed characteristic as are the black ebony color and the deeply rich chestnut tan markings and pencilling in the feet. Its ideal height is 25-30 cms (10-12 inches) and ideal weight 2.7-3.6 kilos (6-8 lbs.)

In North America (the U.S. and Canada), the toy-sized black and tan terriers are registered as Manchester Terriers and compete at shows as Toy Manchester Terriers under the Manchester Terrier standard.

In its country of origin, the English Toy Terriers are in the toy group, whereas the FCI has assigned them to the terrier group.

Here in Finland, ETT fanciers do not have a breed club of their own due to their small number; instead, they have formed a section under the Finnish Toy Dog Association. The Association recommends a patella, eye and heart examination for all breeding stock.

For more information contact the secretary of the ETT Section, Ms. Maarit Harjanne, e-mail: first name. last name (at) netti.fi or the Finnish Toy Dog Association, e-mail: info (at) toydogs.net