The English Toy Terrier is one of the oldest English breeds, traceable back to the fifteenth century. They are descended from the smooth-coated variety of the Old English Black and Tan Terrier and are a smaller version of the Manchester Terrier, with the same smart coal black and rich tan colouring. In Canada and the United States the English Toy Terrier is known as the Toy Manchester Terrier.

Before 1960 in the UK he was known as the Miniature Black and Tan Terrier, but the new name was adopted to be more specific. Although a Toy he retains some terrier characteristics although unlike many of the Terrier Group he doesn't go looking for trouble.  They were essentially ratters and during the late 18th century and for most of the 19th century were used in rat pits in sporting contests. The main contests took place in London. In the latter part of the nineteenth century the sport also had a strong following in Paris and in the United States.

The English Toy Terrier is small, compact and very robust.  The ancestors of the breed had a reputation that was second to none in the North of England for controlling the rat population on farms and in homes. Many dogs were taken to Canada to help control rats in that country. However, during the 19th century his virtues as a housedog became more apparent and a selective breeding programme was started that eventually produced the charming little dog we know today.  An elegant and fine dog, the English Toy Terrier measures up to 13" and should not weigh more than 5.5kg. Although he retains some terrier behaviour he is more of a companion dog than a family pet.

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