How to Train a Toy Fox Terrier

Toy fox terriers are extremely intelligent and eager to learn, though sometimes they can be strong-willed. Consistency, patience and plenty of food rewards are the key to making training fun for you and your dog. Optimally, training begins early in the toy fox terrier's life, generally around 6 to 8 weeks. But any dog can be trained to do any number of tricks at any age.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the command you want to teach first. Basic obedience training starts with housebreaking and progresses to teaching your dog how to behave appropriately in any situation. The first trick most toy fox terrier owners teach their dogs is, "Sit." This is an essential skill for all dogs and provides the basis for many other commands.

    • 2

      Get the dog's attention. The fastest way to get your terrier focused on the training session at hand is to let him know that you have something he wants. Because almost all dogs enjoy a treat, getting his attention through the use of food is very effective. It's also a very powerful tool in communicating to your dog. Show the food reward to your dog, let him sniff it, then pull your hand back. Now you have his full attention.

    • 3

      Give the command and elicit the behavior. For the "Sit" behavior, say clearly and with authority, "Sit." The command must be short and simple and without a lot of inflection. Hold the food reward over his head to get him into the position to sit. He may jump up and stand on his hind legs to get the reward, but continue to give the command "Sit" until he sits. Reward him with praise and the treat as soon as he sits.

    • 4

      Repeat the process. Repeat giving the command, holding the treat over his head and rewarding him for the correct behavior several times, but no longer than 10 minutes before taking a break. Sessions that continue longer than 10 minutes quickly become boring for the dog, making him less likely to cooperate. According to Richard K. Davis, veterinarian and owner of Knoxville Animal Clinic, you can conduct up to three 10-minute sessions a day but no more. Stick with the same command until the terrier performs the appropriate behavior each time the command is given. This should take no more than three to four days to master.

    • 5

      Pick a new trick. After your terrier has mastered "Sit," move on to another trick, such as "Stay." Follow the same procedures as with Sit until the dog holds the "Stay" position up to a full minute or two. The training process can progress until your terrier has an entire arsenal of tricks and behaviors.