From which breed of dog was the toy terrier bred? - briefly
The Toy Terrier, also known as the English Toy Terrier, was bred from the Manchester Terrier. Specifically, it was developed by selectively breeding the smaller specimens of the Manchester Terrier to achieve a more diminutive size.
From which breed of dog was the toy terrier bred? - in detail
The Toy Terrier, a charming and compact breed, has a rich history that traces back to several distinct terrier breeds. The development of the Toy Terrier involved careful selection and breeding to achieve the desired traits of small size, lively temperament, and distinctive appearance.
The English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) is one of the most well-known varieties and is directly descended from the Old English Black and Tan Terrier. This breed was highly valued for its tenacity and ability to hunt vermin. Over time, breeders focused on reducing the size of these terriers to create a more manageable and companionable pet. The English Toy Terrier retains many of the characteristics of its larger predecessors, including a sleek black and tan coat and a spirited personality.
Another significant contributor to the Toy Terrier lineage is the Manchester Terrier. Originally bred for rat-catching in the industrial cities of England, the Manchester Terrier was known for its agility and speed. Breeders sought to miniaturize this breed, leading to the development of the Toy Manchester Terrier, which is recognized for its elegant build and keen intelligence.
The Italian Greyhound also influenced the development of the Toy Terrier, particularly in terms of its slender and graceful appearance. This breed, known for its speed and elegance, contributed to the Toy Terrier's refined and elegant look.
The process of creating the Toy Terrier involved meticulous breeding practices aimed at preserving the best traits of these ancestral breeds while achieving a smaller size. Breeders focused on maintaining the terrier's characteristic energy, alertness, and affectionate nature, making the Toy Terrier an ideal companion dog.
In summary, the Toy Terrier is a result of careful breeding from several terrier breeds, including the Old English Black and Tan Terrier, the Manchester Terrier, and the Italian Greyhound. Each of these breeds contributed unique traits that, when combined, resulted in the charming and lively Toy Terrier we know today. The breed's development is a testament to the skill and dedication of breeders who sought to create a small, yet spirited, companion dog.