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13 Small Terrier Breeds That Pack Big Personality

13 Small Terrier Breeds That Pack Big Personality

Have you heard of the expression large dog in a small body? Well, this is the best description of Terrier Dog Breeds! According to the American Kennel Club, there are 31 Terrier dog types in total, including the biggest number of small dogs.

This feisty dog breed originated in 19th century England where humans primarily used Terriers to fight against vermin. These English dogs today have become popular pets for many families, while their role as working dogs has significantly decreased, but still hasn’t totally vanished.

Continue reading to find out more about energetic Terrier dog breeds! Let’s first find out how many different small Terrier dog breeds there are.

1. Australian Terrier

Australian Terrier

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As the name itself says, this Terrier breed was developed in Australia. Their primary function there was hunting snakes and rodents.

Although they are really small dogs, the Australian Terrier is hardworking and independent. They are the kind of dogs that will constantly entertain the whole family and show great affection towards their owners.

If you need a real watchdog, an Australian Terrier is a good choice for you – he will let you know immediately if he notices a stranger near his territory! Since this dog is so full of energy, he constantly needs his owner to come up with new and fun activities for him.

The most important trait of Australian Terriers’ personality is the fact that they are indeed family dogs whose favorite activity is spending time with children, playing with them, or just being by their side.

2. Border Terrier

Border Terrier

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Border Terrier is a Terrier breed that originates from the border of Scotland and Northumberland, which is why they are called Border Terriers. Similar to Australian Terriers, Border Terriers were also working dogs used by farmers, while nowadays they are better known for being family pets.

3. Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terrier

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Do you really want to have a dog, but some of your family members have problems with allergies? We might have the right dog for you: a Bedlington Terrier!

This Terrier type is a hypoallergenic dog, which means he probably won’t stimulate allergies in humans. Of course, you can never be totally sure, since no dog breed is one hundred percent hypoallergenic.

An interesting fact about Bedlington Terriers is that they do not shed, which is pretty fascinating, since they look kind of like a lamb. They are very intelligent, but also can be really stubborn.

Bedlington Terriers usually get along with other dogs, but they might show aggressive behavior with dogs of the same sex. Here we can see the importance of early socialization.

4. Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier

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Although they were first known for dogfighting, Boston Terriers evolved into popular pets and great companions. They adore their families and you can have a Boston Terrier even if you are living in an apartment.

Boston Terriers’ noses are really short, so don’t be surprised if your pet buddy snores all night long! They are very sensitive to extremely high and low temperatures, so this is why they are even better indoors than outdoors. However, like any other Terrier dog, they enjoy outdoor exercise with their owner.

5. Cairn Terrier

Cairn Terrier

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The Cairn Terrier is another small working Terrier breed. This Terrier breed is highly intelligent and learns new things fast. He will want to be around you all the time, so he might be upset if you leave him home alone often!

The Cairn Terrier is capable of learning a huge number of commands, but it is still necessary to train and socialize him at an early age – like other Terriers, he is crazy about digging and hunting.

He shows special attention to children. Regarding other animals, it is important to socialize him very early, since – again – he is a Terrier and Terriers love to chase other animals.

6. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

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The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a couple of interesting characteristics: gentle temperament, silky topknot coat, and large eyes. Although they are very intelligent, they are still not easy to train, due to their creative and curious nature.

This Terrier breed is a really healthy breed. Some diseases they still might have problems with are epilepsy and glaucoma. It is very important for Dandie Dinmont Terrier’s owner to pay attention so that his Terrier doesn’t get overweight because that might cause back problems for his dog buddy.

With this in mind, proper exercise is crucial for Dandie Dinmonts’ health.

7. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier

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If you are planning to become a first-time Terrier owner, we suggest you don’t start with this one! The Jack Russell Terrier is a very clever and charming little dog, but at the same time pretty difficult to train. So, if you don’t have enough time to provide a Jack Russell with numerous exercises, you should look for another Terrier breed.

Another interesting thing about the Jack Russell Terrier – if he gets bored, he might make a mess of your home. So, Jack Russells need to be entertained all the time. If you are looking for a Terrier that can learn numerous tricks and never gets tired of action, then you are the right person for a Jack Russell Terrier.

If you’re adamant about getting one, do note that the Jack Russell Terrier’s lifespan is longer than that of many other dogs, meaning you’ll have a furry friend for a long time.

8. Miniature Bull Terrier

Miniature bull terrier

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The Miniature Bull Terrier shares two features with a Bull Terrier: clown face and egghead! These Terriers are very funny and playful, especially with children.

The training of Miniature Bull Terriers might be challenging since they look for an opportunity to play in every activity. If you are planning to become a Miniature Bull Terrier’s owner, I hope you have a very good sense of humor.

However, properly trained and socialized, this dog will be the perfect companion for you.

9. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer

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The Miniature Schnauzer is categorized as a Terrier dog breed according to AKC, while theStandard Schnauzer is not.  Here are some of the most interesting facts about this small Terrier:

They are extremely loyal to their owners: A Miniature Schnauzer will follow you wherever you go.

They are actually not aware of how small they are, so they often provoke conflict with much bigger dogs.

The Miniature Schnauzer is suspicious of every stranger and he will act protectively towards his owner. This breed needs at least 45 minutes of exercise every day.

10. Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier

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The Scottish Terrier, or “Scottie,” is a small but tough breed with a unique, dignified presence. Their wiry coat and strong build make them stand out, but it’s their independent yet affectionate nature that makes them so special.

Scotties are loyal to their families, often bonding closely with one or two individuals, and are known for their charming, “little dog” attitudes. They may be a bit reserved around strangers, but once they trust you, they are devoted and loving companions.

11. Norfolk Terrier

Norfolk Terrier

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The Norfolk Terrier may be small in size, but it’s full of character and energy. With their soft, wiry coat and round, bright eyes, these dogs are irresistible. Norfolk Terriers are friendly, affectionate, and good with families and other pets.

They are known for their playful nature and cheerful attitude, making them great companions for active individuals or families. Though they are small, Norfolk Terriers have a brave spirit and a strong desire to be involved in all aspects of family life, making them endlessly entertaining.

12. Tenterfield Terrier

tenter terrier

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The Tenterfield Terrier is a small, agile breed originating from Australia, known for its compact size and lively personality.

Standing between 10 to 12 inches tall and weighing around 6 to 10 pounds, this terrier boasts a smooth coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, tan, white, and tri-color combinations.

Despite its small stature, the Tenterfield Terrier has boundless energy and a fearless attitude, traits inherited from its working terrier ancestry. They were originally bred for vermin control, but today, they make excellent family pets due to their affectionate and playful nature.

A unique trait of this breed is its intelligence and trainability, making them ideal for obedience and agility sports. Tenterfield Terriers thrive in active households where they receive plenty of mental and physical stimulation, and their loyal, spirited nature ensures they remain a beloved companion.

13. Sealyham Terrier

sealy terrier

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The Sealyham Terrier is a small but sturdy breed, originating in Wales, with a distinctive appearance and a charming personality.

Standing about 10 to 12 inches tall and weighing 20 to 24 pounds, this terrier has a wiry, weather-resistant white coat and a strong, muscular build. Sealyhams were originally bred for hunting badgers and otters, showcasing their tenacity and bravery.

Despite their working heritage, they are calm and friendly, making them a delightful addition to families. One interesting feature of the Sealyham Terrier is its ability to adapt to both indoor and outdoor lifestyles, thriving equally as a lively house companion or an adventurous outdoor dog.

Their alert and curious nature makes them excellent watchdogs, while their affectionate temperament ensures they form strong bonds with their owners. Though less common than other terrier breeds, their unique mix of charm and versatility makes them a standout choice for terrier enthusiasts.