Terriers are a spirited bunch of dogs originally bred to hunt vermin and small game. These feisty, energetic companions come in various shapes and sizes, from tiny lap dogs to muscular medium-sized breeds.
Whether you’re looking for a family pet or a working dog, terriers offer personality and charm that have made them favorites among dog lovers worldwide.
1. Jack Russell Terrier: The Energetic Pocket Rocket
Small but mighty, Jack Russells pack more energy into their compact frames than almost any other breed. Originally developed for fox hunting in England, these dogs never seem to run out of steam.
Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, though their stubborn streak requires consistent handling. Jack Russells typically live 13-16 years, bringing boundless enthusiasm to every day.
Despite their small size, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors born of boredom.
2. West Highland White Terrier: The Charming Westie
With their signature white coat and alert expression, Westies capture hearts everywhere they go. These Scottish charmers were originally bred to hunt rats and other burrowing animals in the Highlands.
Their double coat requires regular grooming to maintain its bright white appearance. Confident and social by nature, Westies typically form strong bonds with their families while maintaining an independent streak.
They’re known for their friendly disposition but can be surprisingly determined when they set their minds to something.
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier: The Loyal Powerhouse
Don’t let their muscular build fool you – Staffies are often called ‘nanny dogs’ because of their patience with children. These stocky companions originated in the English county of Staffordshire, where they were bred for both fighting and companionship.
Modern Staffies are known for their unwavering loyalty and affectionate nature. Their short coat comes in various colors including brindle, black, blue, and fawn.
Despite their tough appearance, they’re sensitive souls who thrive on human connection and positive reinforcement training.
4. Scottish Terrier: The Distinguished Gentleman
Recognizable by their distinctive bearded profile and dignified stance, Scotties carry themselves with an air of importance. Former President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s beloved Scottie, Fala, helped popularize this breed in America.
Their wiry double coat requires professional grooming every few months to maintain its characteristic shape. Independent and sometimes aloof with strangers, these dogs form deep bonds with their chosen people.
Scotties have a determined personality that earned them the nickname ‘the Diehard’ – once they decide on something, changing their mind can be quite the challenge!
5. Bull Terrier: The Playful Egghead
Famous for their egg-shaped heads and mischievous personalities, Bull Terriers are the clowns of the terrier world. The distinctive profile develops as they mature, giving them their unmistakable appearance that’s been featured in everything from Target commercials to Budweiser ads.
Beneath their muscular exterior beats the heart of a sensitive, people-oriented dog. These strong-willed characters need consistent training from an early age.
Their short, glossy coat is easy to maintain with occasional brushing, making them relatively low-maintenance in the grooming department.
6. Airedale Terrier: The King Of Terriers
Standing taller than other terriers, Airedales earn their royal nickname with their impressive size and versatility. During World War I, these dogs served as messengers and ambulance dogs, showcasing their intelligence and courage.
Their wiry tan and black coat requires regular stripping or clipping to maintain its texture and appearance. Airedales combine the typical terrier alertness with a more thoughtful, measured approach to life.
They excel at numerous dog sports and activities, from agility to tracking, making them perfect for active families looking for a trainable companion.
7. Boston Terrier: The American Gentleman
Sporting a tuxedo-like coat pattern, Boston Terriers bring dapper charm to any household. Created in Boston during the late 19th century, they were among the first breeds developed entirely in America.
Their expressive eyes and friendly demeanor make them excellent companions for city dwellers. Unlike many terriers, Bostons tend to be less vocal and more adaptable to apartment living.
Their smooth, short coat requires minimal grooming, though their flat faces can make them sensitive to extreme temperatures and cause snoring that many owners find endearing.
8. Yorkshire Terrier: The Glamorous Lapdog
Beneath the silky, flowing coat of a Yorkie lies the heart of a true terrier – brave, determined, and full of personality. These tiny dogs were originally working-class companions in Yorkshire’s mills and mines, catching rats that plagued industrial England.
Today’s Yorkies are more likely to be found on silk pillows than in coal mines. Their luxurious coat requires daily brushing and regular trimming unless kept in a shorter “puppy cut.”
Weight typically ranges from 4-7 pounds, making them perfect for those seeking a portable companion with a big-dog attitude.
9. Cairn Terrier: The Toto Terrier
Forever immortalized as Toto in The Wizard of Oz, Cairn Terriers remain as spunky and lovable as their famous representative. Hailing from the Scottish Highlands, these dogs were named after the cairns (rock piles) where they would hunt rats and other small prey.
Their shaggy, weather-resistant double coat comes in several colors except white. Cairns are known for their earth-dog instincts and will happily dig up your garden if given the chance.
Their expressive faces and curious nature make them entertaining companions who form strong bonds with their families.
10. American Pit Bull Terrier: The Misunderstood Athlete
Athletic and people-oriented, Pit Bulls were once known as “nanny dogs” for their gentle nature with children. Their powerful build and incredible loyalty made them valuable working companions on American farms and homesteads.
Modern Pit Bulls excel in various dog sports, therapy work, and as service dogs. Their short coat comes in virtually every color and pattern imaginable, from solid to brindle to patched.
Contrary to media portrayals, well-socialized Pit Bulls typically show remarkable patience and affection, though they do require responsible ownership and proper training like any powerful breed.
11. Fox Terrier: The Classic Hunting Companion
Available in smooth and wire-haired varieties, Fox Terriers have been popular since the Victorian era when fox hunting was at its height. Their distinctive V-shaped ears and alert expression reflect their heritage as keen hunters.
Smooth Fox Terriers have a short, dense coat that’s easy to maintain with weekly brushing. Wire Fox Terriers sport a textured, wiry coat that requires hand-stripping several times a year to maintain its proper texture.
Both varieties share an inquisitive nature and boundless energy that makes them excellent candidates for dog sports and active families.
12. Miniature Schnauzer: The Bearded Guardian
Sporting their trademark beard and eyebrows, Mini Schnauzers combine terrier spirit with a more biddable temperament. German farmers originally bred them as ratters and all-purpose farm dogs, valuing their intelligence and moderate size.
Their distinctive double coat requires regular professional grooming to maintain its characteristic appearance. Unlike many terriers, Schnauzers tend to be less dog-aggressive and more adaptable to multi-pet households.
Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs who will announce any visitor, though they’re generally friendly once introductions are made.
13. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier: The Irish Charmer
Covered in silky, wheat-colored locks, Wheatens bring Irish charm and playfulness to any family. Unlike many terriers, they were bred as all-purpose farm dogs rather than specialized hunters, helping with herding, guarding, and vermin control.
Their signature coat starts dark at birth and lightens to its adult wheaten color as they mature. Despite their soft appearance, they’re sturdy and athletic dogs who need regular exercise.
Wheatens are known for their exuberant greeting called the “Wheaten greetin'” – jumping and dancing with joy when their favorite people come home.
14. Rat Terrier: The American Farm Dog
Compact and muscular, Rat Terriers earned their keep on American farms by controlling rodent populations with remarkable efficiency. President Theodore Roosevelt gave the breed its name after his own terrier effectively eliminated a White House rat problem.
Their short, smooth coat comes in a variety of patterns including tri-color and pied. Highly intelligent and trainable, these dogs excel at obedience, agility, and barn hunt competitions.
Rat Terriers come in standard (13-18 pounds) and miniature (under 13 pounds) sizes, making them adaptable to different living situations while maintaining their working dog capabilities.
15. Border Terrier: The Country Gentleman
Hailing from the rugged border country between England and Scotland, Border Terriers combine working ability with an easygoing disposition. Their distinctive otter-like head helps identify them among other wire-coated terriers.
The weather-resistant double coat requires hand-stripping several times a year to maintain its proper texture and appearance. Despite their hunting background, Borders tend to get along well with other dogs and even cats if properly socialized.
Their moderate exercise needs and adaptable nature make them suitable for both country living and city apartments with active owners.