A breed standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics, temperament and appearance including the correct colour of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function. Absolute soundness is essential. Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health, welfare or soundness of this breed.
From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adversely, and judges and breeders are requested to refer to the Breed Watch information related to this breed for details of any such current issues. If a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure. However, if a dog possesses a feature, characteristic or colour described as highly undesirable, it must not be rewarded in the show ring.
General appearance
Small, low, keen dog, compact and strong, short back, good substance and bone. Honourable scars from fair wear and tear permissible.
Characteristics
One of the smallest of terriers, a ‘demon’ for its size. Lovable disposition, not quarrelsome, hardy constitution.
Temperament
Alert and fearless.
Head and skull
Skull broad, only slightly rounded with good width between ears. Muzzle wedge-shaped and strong; length of muzzle about one-third less than measurement from occiput to bottom of well-defined stop.
Eyes
Oval-shaped, dark brown or black. Expression alert, keen and intelligent.
Ears
Medium size, V-shaped, slightly rounded at tip, dropping forward close to cheek.
Mouth
Tight-lipped, strong jaw, teeth strong and rather large; perfect scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws.
Neck
Strong and of medium length.
Forequarters
Clean, well-laid-back shoulder blade, approximating in length to upper arm. Front legs short, powerful and straight.
Body
Compact, short back, level topline, well-sprung ribs.
Hindquarters
Well muscled, good turn of stifle, hocks well let down and straight when viewed from rear; great propulsion.
Feet
Round with thick pads.
Tail
Docking of tail previously optional.
- Medium docked, set level with topline and carried erect.
- Tail of moderate length to give a general balance to the dog, thick at the root and tapering towards the tip, as straight as possible, carried jauntily, but not excessively gay.
Gait/movement
True, low and driving. Moving straight forward from shoulder. Good rear angulation showing great powers of propulsion. Hindlegs follow track of forelegs, moving smoothly from hips. Flexing well at stifle and hock. Topline remaining level.
Coat
Hard, wiry, straight, lying close to body. Longer and rougher on neck and shoulders. Hair on head and ears short and smooth, except for slight whiskers and eyebrows. Excessive trimming undesirable.
Colour
All shades of red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle. White marks or patches undesirable but permissible.
Size
Ideal height at withers 25 cms (10 ins).
Faults
Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog and on the dog’s ability to perform its traditional work.
Note
Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.
*Note for prospective puppy buyers
Size – The Kennel Club breed standard is a guide and description of the ideal for the breed; the size as described does not imply that a dog will match the measurements given (height or weight). A dog might be larger or smaller than the size measurements stated in the breed standard.