Miniature Fox Terrier Breed Guide
Also known as: Mini Foxie, Mini Fox Terrier, Toy Fox Terrier
Australia's small terriers, Miniature Fox Terriers are alert, confident dogs whose compact size and bold personalities suit those wanting portable courage.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Small
Weight
3-6 kg
Lifespan
12-20 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
Size
Small
Weight
3-6 kg
Lifespan
12-20 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
About Miniature Fox Terriers
Developed in Australia during the 1860s from English Fox Terriers and various toy breeds, the Miniature Fox Terrier was bred as a companion and rat-catching dog. Their compact size and keen hunting instincts made them popular with Australian settlers and urban dwellers.
Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming but sheds seasonally. Miniature Fox Terriers are energetic and alert, known for their strong prey drive and independent nature.
They are devoted to their families but can be reserved with strangers. Miniature Fox Terriers need moderate exercise and excel at activities that engage their hunting instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and luxating patella that can affect small breeds.
Complete Care Guide for Miniature Fox Terriers
Expert advice on keeping your Miniature Fox Terrier healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Maintaining optimal nutrition for a Miniature Fox Terrier requires careful attention to both meal composition and feeding schedules. These energetic small dogs thrive on high-quality diets that support their active lifestyle while preventing weight gain through proper portion control.
Establishing a consistent feeding routine helps regulate their energy levels throughout the day. Many Miniature Fox Terrier owners find success with smaller, more frequent meals rather than one or two large servings. This approach helps maintain stable blood sugar and supports proper digestion in these compact but vigorous dogs.
When selecting food, focus on nutrient-dense options that provide adequate protein for muscle maintenance and healthy fats for sustained energy. While these terriers may have particular preferences, it's essential to prioritise nutritional value over palatability. Monitor portion sizes carefully, as excess weight can strain their joints and impact their natural agility.
Regular weight checks and body condition assessments help ensure your Miniature Fox Terrier maintains an ideal physique. Adjust portions based on activity level, age, and overall health status, consulting with your veterinarian to establish appropriate serving sizes for your individual dog.
How healthy is your Miniature Fox Terrier?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Miniature Fox Terriers from our community of pet parents
Miniature Fox Terriers are known for their lively, energetic and intelligent nature. They are extremely loyal to their families and love to be involved in all types of activities. Despite their small size, they're quite fearless and can be a bit stubborn at times. They make excellent watchdogs due to their alert and protective nature.
Dog Breeds Similar to Miniature Fox Terrier
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Miniature Fox Terrier
Toy Fox Terrier
Tiny terriers with big attitudes, Toy Fox Terriers are bold, intelligent dogs whose small size and confident personalities make them excellent portable companions.
Rat Terrier
American farm dogs, Rat Terriers are alert, versatile working dogs whose intelligence and adaptability make them excellent companions for various lifestyles.