English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)

It is a sleek, elegant toy breed that is essentially a miniature of the old Manchester Terrier. Small and fine-boned, it stands around 25–30 cm at the shoulder and weighs only about 2.7–3.6 kg, with a smooth, glossy black coat marked with rich tan, large flame-shaped ears and a lithe outline. Despite its dainty appearance it retains true terrier spark.

Yes. It is one of Britain's rarer native breeds and has been listed among the vulnerable native breeds because of its low registration numbers. Maintaining genetic diversity in its small gene pool is a recognised priority for responsible breeders.

They are affectionate, alert and strongly attached to their owners, often bonding closely with one person or a small family. Lively and intelligent, they combine a gentle, sweet side at home with the keen attitude of their terrier ancestry. They can be a little reserved with strangers and retain some terrier prey drive towards small scurrying animals.

This is a moderately active little dog that enjoys daily walks and play but does not need extreme amounts of exercise, making it a good fit for less strenuous households and even flats. A couple of short-to-moderate walks plus some play and mental stimulation each day usually keep it happy. Being small and short-coated, it feels the cold and may need a coat in winter.

They can be delightful family companions but are best with sensible older children rather than boisterous toddlers. Because they are tiny and fine-boned, they should be handled gently and are vulnerable to injury from falls or rough handling. Young children may not realise how delicate they are, so supervision is important.

Grooming could hardly be simpler. The short, smooth, glossy coat needs only an occasional brush or wipe, and the breed sheds relatively little. Routine care covers nail trimming, dental care — small breeds are prone to dental problems, so regular tooth-brushing is valuable — and basic ear checks. Its low grooming needs are one of the breed's most appealing qualities.

They are generally long-lived and fairly healthy, typically living around 12–14 years, though breed-specific evidence is limited by their small numbers. Known concerns include primary lens luxation (an inherited eye condition for which a DNA test exists), patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps, common in toy breeds), and the dental issues typical of small dogs. Buy from breeders who health-test.

Fine with sensible, older children. As a general guide, English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)s tend to be fine with sensible, older children. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.

As a healthy adult, a typical English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.

Low shedding. Coat upkeep is wash-and-go — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.

Good for first-time owners. English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)s are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.

Generally fine with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Flat-friendly. A English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) can adapt to flat living as long as it gets its daily exercise and company.