Discover Everything About English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan)
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
The English Toy Terrier faces an above-average health burden, with nine documented mandatory health tests. Particular focus is placed on eye conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and glaucoma, which in the worst case can lead to blindness, as well as the breed-typical patellar luxation. Prospective buyers should look very closely and only purchase puppies from parents that have been demonstrably tested.
Lifespan
12–15 yrs
Height
25–30 cm
Weight
3–4 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 2,000 – 3,500 €
- Coat: Short, shiny, without undercoat
- Origin: Great Britain
Typical coat colors
- Black
- tan
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan), choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) right for you?
The English Toy Terrier is an elegant, lightning-fast Baujäger (terrier used for hunting in burrows) — bred as a relentless rat hunter for the London pits, he now acts as a vigilant, heat-loving companion with a true terrier heart who will stick to your sofa like glue.
Perfect for you if:
- You are looking for a dog that, despite its dainty size, is a full-fledged terrier with a genuine prey drive for small animals and needs to be mentally challenged.
- You want an agile companion that can easily keep up with the big dogs during dog sports or long walks in good weather.
- You don't mind dressing your dog in a coat during winter and having an affectionate heat-seeker under your blanket in the evening.
- You are prepared to train even a small dog with love but absolute consistency so that he doesn't turn into a control freak.
Less ideal if:
- You keep rodents or birds as pets — this dog was selectively bred to strike with lightning speed and zero compromise whenever something small moves.
- You are looking for a robust outdoor companion for hours of hiking in ice and rain — he completely lacks a warming undercoat.
- You live in an apartment with thin walls and get stressed easily by a vigilant dog that reports every sound in the hallway.
- You expect a pure lapdog that is satisfied with short rounds around the block — he is an athlete in miniature format.
The real vibes check
The English Toy Terrier looks like a fragile porcelain figurine, but a fearless gladiator's heart beats in his chest. He is not just an accessory, but a sharp-witted little hunter who won't hesitate for a second to chase a mouse outside — only to burrow deep under your cozy blanket at home afterwards.
Breed Profile
The English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan), known as ETT for short, is a small, elegant dog breed that is listed in FCI Group 3, Section 4 (Dwarf Terrier). Its slim, slightly rectangular body shape and elegant head with the characteristic large, almond-shaped eyes and upright ears give it a striking appearance. The long, elegant neck leads to an equally elegant chest and a sharply sloping back. The tail is medium long compared to the body and is carried straight or slightly sloping. With the English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) there is no distinction between performance and show lines, as the breed is primarily bred as a companion dog.
| Height | 25 - 30 cm (Female), 25 - 30 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 3 - 4 kg (Female), 3 - 4 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 - 15 years |
| Character | Attentive, Intelligent, Playful |
| Coat | Short, shiny, without undercoat |
| Coat Color | Black and tan |
| Price | 2000 - 3500 € |
Health
Solid, watch carefully
Health grade
The English Toy Terrier faces an above-average health burden, with nine documented mandatory health tests. Particular focus is placed on eye conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and glaucoma, which in the worst case can lead to blindness, as well as the breed-typical patellar luxation. Prospective buyers should look very closely and only purchase puppies from parents that have been demonstrably tested.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
You should ensure joint-friendly exercise, protect the dogs from the cold in winter due to their lack of undercoat, and carefully plan any surgeries with your vet due to potential blood clotting disorders.
The breeder's role
Reputable breeders focus on a diverse gene pool and have the parents' knees, eyes, heart, and blood clotting tested to reduce hereditary risks in the line.
Frequently asked questions about the English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan)
Is a English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) the right dog for me?
The English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) live?
The average life expectancy of a English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) is 12-15 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) need?
English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) good for families with children?
The English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan) can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
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Guides & Resources
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