List Of Terrier Breeds
Find The Terrier That's Right For You!
List Of Terrier Breeds - Characteristics
The first comment people usually make about the Terrier dog breeds is that they are a feisty bunch! And that is certainly true,
but they are also very smart, alert, enthusiastic, energetic, loyal and fearless. They love to play and always
look like they are ready and waiting for some exciting action. And if it doesn't happen, they will find a
way to let you know they want some attention. You'll never have a chance to get bored if you have a terrier
around the house.
Most of the dogs in this list of Terrier breeds were originally developed in the British Isles. Initially, they were
mainly used in hilly farmland to hunt down small animals in dens or burrows or
chase down vermin. Their coat, strong jaws, digging ability and quickness have equipped them well for these
jobs.
Because they are so lively and engaging, it naturally evolved that in addition to their working abilities, they also become
beloved companions.
Don't expect to get a terrier's attention if they have spotted, or given chase to, a moving object! They
will be completely focused on their target until their mission is resolved. As a result, they need
ongoing training to reinforce recall commands that are important to their safety. While terriers
are intelligent and have been trained for a variety of jobs, they can be a bit willful. The solution
to this is a firm yet kindly leader.
Terrier breeds in this list are very alert, have keen hearing and will cock an ear at the slightest sound. As such, they make
excellent watch dogs. This is not an aggressive breed, but they will vie for leadership with other dogs - though not
in a vicious way. When it comes to humans, you must demonstrate that you are the leader of the pack and this
will be respected if you train your terrier in a firm yet kindly manner.
Around the home they are protective and will not back down if an outside threat to the family is perceived. The larger ones can certainly hold their
own in a confrontation. They are not in the least fragile, very adaptable and make great family dogs.
Some, like the Jack Russell Terrier have a lot of showmanship in them and in earlier times were circus performers.
Today, you are apt to see them frequently in television shows, commercials and definitely participating
in the dog shows.
List Of Terrier Breeds - Health
Generally speaking Terrier breeds are pretty hardy and quite healthy. They are not known to be subject to any unusual diseases. That being
said, it is important to make sure they were bred by a knowledgeable and responsible breeder.
However, terriers are tough and not ones to let on when they feel out of sorts, to the degree that they will often give no
indication of any aches and pains or other health troubles. Many times, they just go on about their business
as if nothing is wrong. These dogs are no wimps! A dog health handbook such as this excellent one -
Dr. Pitcairn's Guide to Natural Health For Dogs
can really help owners know what to look for
when inspecting their terrier.
List Of Terrier Breeds - Sizes To Suit Everyone
There is quite a variation in size within this group. From the very small Cairn and West Highland Terriers,
to the king of Terriers - The Airedale.
The small size terrier dog breeds include the Australian, Border, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont,
Norfolk, Norwich, Sealyham. Skye, Scottish and West Highland White.
Some find the smaller dog's bark a little on the high pitched side.
Those of medium size include the Bedlington, Smooth Fox and Wire Fox Terriers, Glen of Imaal, Irish, Kerry Blue,
Lakeland, Manchester, Miniature Bull, Parson Russell, Staffordshire Bull, and Welsh.
The largest in the list of Terrier breeds includes the American Staffordshire Terrier, Irish Terrier, Kerry Blue, Bull Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten,
and of course the "king" Airedale.
Many in the list of Terrier breeds have done very well in dog shows. For example, the Wire Fox Terrier has won more best in show titles at
the famous Westminster Dog Show than any other breed.
Click on any of the list of terrier breeds in the table below to learn more about each of these wonderful dogs and see their pictures.
Dandy Dinmont Terrier
Other dog groups classified by the America Kennel Club, include:
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