English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)
2.7-3.6 kg
25-30 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
United Kingdom
About the English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)
The English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) is the ultimate 'big dog in a small body,' possessing the sleek, refined elegance of a miniature Doberman with the tenacious spirit of a traditional working terrier. As one of the oldest native toy breeds in the UK, they are defined by their distinctive 'candle-flame' ears and jet-black coats with rich mahogany markings. Despite their diminutive size, they remain remarkably agile and alert, retaining the keen senses of their ancestors who were prized as expert ratters. In a home environment, they are devoted companions that form deep bonds with their families. They are highly observant and will quickly alert owners to any unusual activity, making them excellent little watchdogs. While they enjoy a warm lap, they are not sedentary dogs; they possess a sharp intellect and a playful streak that requires regular engagement. For Australian owners, they are an ideal choice for those seeking a graceful, low-maintenance companion that perfectly balances toy-breed affection with terrier-like grit.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the English Toy Terrier displays a unique 'candle-flame' ear set—upright, slightly pointed, and thin-textured—which gives them an expression of intense alertness. Their movement is described as a 'daisy-cutting' action, a smooth, graceful, and effortless gait that covers ground without exaggeration. The coat must be a sleek, jet-black canvas for the precisely defined mahogany tan markings, which include the characteristic 'thumb mark' on the forelegs and 'pencil marks' on the toes.
In Australia
The English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) has a long history in Australia, documented as early as the late 19th century, having appeared in early Australian dog shows during that period. In those early dog shows, the breed was often grouped with the Black and Tan Terrier, now known as the Manchester Terrier, as they were considered varieties of the same breed. It is believed that the breed gained distinct recognition under its current name, the English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan), in the 1960s following international nomenclature changes.
Bred For
Originally bred as a ratter and for 'rat-pit' sporting events, hunting vermin with speed and agility.
Temperament
Alert, intelligent, loyal, and spirited with a true terrier personality; affectionate but discerning.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, , von Willebrand’s Disease () Type 1, and . They are also prone to dental overcrowding and early-onset .
Exercise Needs
Moderate; they require daily walks of 30-45 minutes combined with indoor play and mental stimulation to satisfy their terrier instincts.
Grooming Needs
Minimal; their short coat requires only weekly brushing with a soft cloth or rubber mitt to remove loose hair and maintain shine.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living due to their size and cleanliness, but they do require a warm indoor environment as they feel the cold easily.
Good with Kids
Best suited for households with older, respectful children who understand how to handle a small, delicate dog.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs if socialised early; however, their high prey drive means they may chase smaller pets like rodents or birds.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and quick to learn, though they can possess a typical terrier streak of independence; positive, reward-based training works best.
Coat & Colours
Short, dense, smooth, and glossy.. Black and Tan; the black should be ebony and the tan a rich mahogany, with distinct thumb marks on the forelegs.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that English Toy Terriers are more likely to experience patellar luxation and dental disease due to their small jaw structure; this means regular dental checks and maintaining a lean weight are vital. While they are hardy for their size, their thin coats make them prone to cold sensitivity, so they will often require coats or jumpers during South Australian winters. They can be more likely to develop separation anxiety if left alone for very long periods, as they thrive on human proximity. Like many terriers, they may possess a strong prey drive, meaning they are predisposed to chasing local wildlife or the family cat if not properly introduced. Owners should also watch for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, a hip condition occasionally seen in the breed. While they are vocal enough to be great watchdogs, they can become frequent barkers if not given enough mental stimulation. Despite these quirks, they are incredibly rewarding companions for those who appreciate a smart, sleek, and spirited little dog. Many thrive when their diet is switched from standard commercial kibble to a fresh, raw diet, which can help mitigate skin sensitivities and digestive upsets that some individuals are prone to.
Feeding Guide for Your English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)
Healthy Weight
2.7-3.6 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
60-100 grams
Feed a high-quality fresh or raw diet divided into two meals daily. Use approximately 2-3% of their ideal adult body weight as a starting point. For a 3kg dog, this equates to roughly 60-90g per day.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-protein, nutrient-dense diet is essential. They thrive on fresh, high-quality proteins like kangaroo, lamb, and fish, which support their lean muscle mass and high metabolism.
A balanced raw diet for an English Toy Terrier should focus on lean, high-quality proteins available from Majestik Pet Food, such as Kangaroo or Beef, to maintain their athletic frame. Appropriately selected raw meaty bones may provide chewing enrichment, but they do not replace veterinary dental care and can present choking, tooth-fracture or gastrointestinal risks. Avoid fillers and high-carbohydrate additives to prevent weight gain, which can stress their delicate joints.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
2-4 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.