The black and tan small terrier is a breed of dog that originated in England in the mid-19th century. They were developed as working terriers to hunt rodents and other small vermin. Despite their small size, black and tan terriers are feisty, energetic, and make excellent watchdogs. This article will provide an overview of the history, physical characteristics, temperament, and care requirements of the black and tan small terrier breed.
History of the Black and Tan Small Terrier
The origins of the black and tan terrier can be traced back to the extinct English White Terrier breed. In the mid-1800s, breeders crossed the older English terriers with the Whippet and the Manchester Terrier to develop a faster, more agile hunting terrier. The new hybrid terrier was called the Black and Tan Terrier and was recognized as a distinct breed by The Kennel Club in 1920.
The black and tan terrier was a popular working dog in England among hunters, farmers, and ratters. Their small size allowed them to pursue quarry into burrows and dens. The breed was known for its courage, high energy, and tenacity when hunting. They were also valued as loyal companion dogs.
After World War II, the popularity of the black and tan terrier began to decline as urbanization reduced the need for hunting dogs. To preserve the breed, The Kennel Club renamed it the Black and Tan Small Terrier in 1957. Enthusiasts worked to maintain the working attributes and unique qualities of the breed.
Today, the black and tan small terrier remains a spirited and plucky little dog. They are alert watchdogs and continue to participate in earthdog trials and dog sports. While not as common as other terrier breeds, they have a devoted following among terrier lovers.
Physical Characteristics
The black and tan small terrier is a small, well-balanced working terrier. Important physical traits include:
– Size – These terriers typically stand 10-12 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 8-10 pounds.
– Coat – The coat is dense, smooth, and glossy. It lies close to the body.
– Color – As the name implies, black and tan. The body is jet black with rich tan markings on the cheeks, muzzle, chest, legs, and under the tail.
– Head – The head is small and flat with a broad skull. The muzzle tapers neatly.
– Ears – V-shaped, folding ears that stand erect. They are set high on the head.
– Tail – The tail is moderately short and straight. It stands erect.
– Expression – The expression is keen, lively, and intelligent.
Overall, the black and tan small terrier is a sturdy, compact dog with an alert air. Their athletic build and flexible body suit them for hunting underground quarry.
Temperament
Despite their small size, black and tan small terriers exhibit typical terrier traits. They are energetic, spirited, and independent-minded:
– Lively – These terriers are playful, mischievous, and thrive on activity. They need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.
– Fearless – With their history as hunters, they are bold and fearless. They will face any threat or challenge head-on.
– Stubborn – Bred to work independently, black and tan terriers can be stubborn about training. Patient positive reinforcement is a must.
– Prey drive – As terriers, they retain a strong drive to chase small fleeing creatures. Care with other pets is essential.
– Watchful – These dogs are vigilant watchdogs who will loudly announce any disturbances. Their bark is surprisingly loud for their size.
– Devoted – While independent, black and tan terriers form a close bond with their families. They crave attention and companionship.
With their spirited personality, black and tan small terriers need an experienced owner who can provide firm positive guidance. They thrive best in active homes.
Care and Maintenance
Despite their small size, black and tan small terriers are energetic dogs with exercise needs. They require the following care:
– Exercise – At least 30-60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise is crucial. A long walk plus active play keeps them fit and out of trouble.
– Training – Early socialization and training is important for these strong-minded dogs. Positive reinforcement yields the best results.
– Grooming – The short coat requires only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Trim nails regularly.
– Nutrition – As small active dogs, black and tan terriers need a high-quality diet with appropriate calories to maintain an ideal weight.
– Health – Robust and healthy in general. Some risk of heart disorders and lens luxation exists in the breed. Lifespan averages 13-15 years.
With their activity level and personality quirks, the black and tan small terrier is better suited to experienced dog owners. They need patient guidance, activity, and interaction to thrive as family companions.
Living with a Black and Tan Small Terrier
What’s it like sharing your home with this plucky small terrier breed? Here are some key considerations:
– Expect lively vigor and a desire to play. These dogs enjoy brisk walks, playtime in the yard, and active games with their family. They have an abundance of energy for their size.
– Their watchful nature makes them excellent alarm dogs. They will alert you to any unusual sights, sounds, or visitors. Barking can be frequent.
– They are bold and assertive despite their compact size. Early socialization and training is a must to establish rules and manners.
– With patience and positive reinforcement, black and tan terriers can learn to live amicably with other household pets. Supervision is recommended.
– This breed enjoys being with their family and may become demanding or destructive if frequently left alone for long periods.
– Due to their hunting instincts, be sure to keep black and tan terriers leashed or in a secure, fenced area when outside. They will eagerly give chase if they spot a small animal.
– Make sure any yard is escape-proof. These clever terriers can dig under or squeeze through small gaps in fencing.
If you enjoy an energetic and lively small dog, the black and tan terrier can make a devoted companion. Be prepared to match their high activity level and zest for life.
Interesting Facts About Black and Tan Small Terriers
Here are some interesting facts about these energetic little terriers:
– One of the breed’s earliest enthusiasts was Sir Jocelyn Lucas. He was dedicated to preserving the working qualities of the black and tan in England.
– In America, the black and tan was recognized by major kennel clubs in the early 1900s after being imported from England. The AKC recognized the breed in 1985.
– Black and tans have a weatherproof coat that enabled them to hunt in cold, damp conditions underground.
– These terriers have very flexible chest bones that allow them to squeeze through tight spaces when hunting or pursuing quarry underground.
– The feisty breed does well in earthdog trials and competitions that mimic their traditional underground quarry work.
– Colonel Richard Meinertzhagen frequently used black and tan terriers as military dogs and mascots during World War I.
– An especially famous black and tan terrier was Splash. She served as a therapy dog with owner Dorothy Harrison Eustis to help rehabilitate handicapped children.
The rich history of the black and tan small terrier shows its versatility and spirit as a working terrier breed.
Similar Breeds
The black and tan small terrier shares similarities with a few other terrier breeds:
– Manchester Terrier – Closely related, but slightly larger than the black and tan. Also has tan markings on a black body.
– Cairn Terrier – Comparable size and working origin, but has a shaggy grey and brown coat rather than short and sleek black and tan coloring.
– Norfolk Terrier – Another small working terrier. Usually red or grizzle and tan in coloration rather than black and tan.
– Norwich Terrier – Similar compact size and pert ears as the black and tan, but has a red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle coat.
All these terriers share a lively, alert temperament. But the black and tan’s unique black and tan coat pattern sets it apart in looks.
Finding a Black and Tan Small Terrier
This rare terrier breed can be challenging to locate. Here are some tips for finding a black and tan small terrier:
– Contact the National Black and Tan Terrier Club of America for breeder referrals and available litters.
– Check dog show listings, as devotees may show their black and tans in conformation, obedience, agility, or earthdog competitions.
– Search online sites advertising purebred puppies, but always scrutinize breeders carefully for signs of unethical practices.
– Check with local and regional terrier breed clubs, as they may know of occasional black and tan litters in your area.
– Prepare for possible waitlists, as even experienced breeders may only produce one or two small litters per year.
Patience and persistence are often needed when seeking the less common black and tan small terrier. Reaching out to national, regional, and local terrier clubs and contacts is key to locating one of these unique terriers.
Conclusion
The plucky black and tan small terrier is an energetic working terrier breed with a devoted band of fanciers. They offer lively spirit and personality in a compact and hardy package. While their exercise needs and stubborn streak require an experienced owner, they can make alert, fun-loving companions. If you appreciate feisty terrier traits, the black and tan small terrier could be an excellent addition to your home. With their unique looks and history, they are a treasure among terrier aficionados worldwide.
