Terrier Dog Breeds
31 terrier breeds to explore. Feisty and energetic small hunters.
Airedale Terrier
Terrier · Large
Known as the 'King of Terriers,' the Airedale is the largest of all terrier breeds. Originally bred to hunt otters and rats in the Airedale valley, they are versatile, brave, and deeply loyal companions with a clever sense of humor.
American Hairless Terrier
Terrier · Small
The American Hairless Terrier is a lively and curious breed that originated as a natural mutation of the Rat Terrier in Louisiana. As the only hairless breed native to the United States, they are exceptionally affectionate family companions and an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Their smooth skin requires protection from the sun and cold, but their spirited personality ensures they are always the center of attention.
American Staffordshire Terrier
Terrier · Medium
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a muscular and powerful breed known for its confidence and loyal nature. Thriving on human interaction, these dogs form deep bonds with their families and are remarkably gentle despite their strong appearance.
Australian Terrier
Terrier · Small
Developed to be a versatile helper in the rugged Australian outback, this small but sturdy terrier was bred to hunt snakes and rodents. They are known for their 'ruff' around the neck and a keen, intelligent expression that reflects their spirited personality. Despite their tough origin, they are deeply devoted companions that thrive on human interaction.
Bedlington Terrier
Terrier · Medium
Resembling a lamb with its unique curly coat and arched back, the Bedlington Terrier is a graceful yet hardy breed originally bred for hunting vermin. Despite their gentle appearance, they are brave and spirited companions known for their loyalty and quiet demeanor at home.
Border Terrier
Terrier · Small
Originally bred to assist foxhounds in hunts, the Border Terrier is a tough, no-nonsense working dog with a characteristic 'otter head'. They are known for their wiry, weather-resistant coat and a more social, even-tempered nature compared to many other terrier breeds. Their plucky personality and compact size make them adaptable companions for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Bull Terrier
Terrier · Medium
Known as the 'kid in a dog suit,' the Bull Terrier is instantly recognizable by its unique egg-shaped head and triangular eyes. Originally bred in 19th-century England, these spirited companions are famous for their sense of humor, boundless energy, and deep devotion to their families.
Cairn Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Cairn Terrier is a small, shaggy-coated working dog from the Scottish Highlands, most famous for its role as Toto in 'The Wizard of Oz.' Originally bred to hunt foxes and badgers among rock piles (cairns), they are plucky, loyal companions with a big-dog personality. They are energetic explorers who love to dig and chase, making them perfect for active families who appreciate a spunky, independent spirit.
Cesky Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Cesky Terrier is a clever and adventurous companion, uniquely bred in the Czech Republic for hunting while maintaining a calmer temperament than most terriers. Known for its silky, wavy grey coat and distinctive beard, this loyal dog is deeply devoted to its family and makes a vigilant yet polite watchdog.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Terrier · Small
Known as the 'gentleman of the terrier world,' the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is distinguished by its unique long body and 'topknot' of silky hair. Originally bred in the Scottish Borders for hunting otters and badgers, they are famously more relaxed than most terriers while remaining courageous. They are deeply loyal companions that offer a perfect blend of tenacity and calm affection.
Glen of Imaal Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a sturdy, big-hearted Irish terrier known for being calmer and less vocal than many of its terrier cousins. Originally bred in Ireland’s Glen of Imaal for tough farm work and vermin control, this breed combines grit with a surprisingly affectionate home personality. Their unique mix of strength, humor, and loyalty makes them a standout companion for owners who appreciate a terrier with a steadier temperament.
Irish Terrier
Terrier · Medium
Known as the 'Daredevil of the Emerald Isle,' the Irish Terrier is a bold and spirited companion with a distinctive fiery red coat. They are incredibly loyal to their families, combining a tough, athletic exterior with a surprisingly tender and affectionate heart when at home.
Jagdterrier
Terrier · Small
Developed in Germany after World War I, the Jagdterrier is a versatile and fearless hunting specialist designed to work both above and below ground. This compact, muscular terrier is renowned for its intense work ethic, boundless energy, and absolute dedication to its task. While they are peerless companions in the field, their exceptionally high prey drive and independent nature require a structured environment and an experienced owner.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Terrier · Medium
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a versatile working dog from Ireland, famous for its striking blue coat that starts black and fades to its signature hue. Known as the 'Irish Blue Terrier,' they are highly intelligent, spirited companions that excel as both alert watchdogs and affectionate family members. Their non-shedding, wavy coat and multifaceted personality make them a unique and devoted addition to active households.
Manchester Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Manchester Terrier is a sleek and spirited dog, often described as a 'gentleman's terrier' for its refined appearance and clean habits. Originally bred in Victorian England for rat-baiting and rabbit hunting, this breed combines the speed of a Greyhound with the tenacity of a Terrier. Today, they are devoted companions known for their loyalty and sharp intelligence.
Miniature Bull Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Miniature Bull Terrier is famous for its unique egg-shaped head and small, triangular eyes that glint with mischief. While they are a smaller version of the standard Bull Terrier, they possess a massive personality and are often called the 'clowns' of the dog world. They are courageous, energetic, and deeply devoted to their families, though they require consistent leadership.
Miniature Schnauzer
Terrier · Small
The Miniature Schnauzer is a spirited and friendly companion known for its distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows. Originally bred in Germany as a ratter, this intelligent breed is highly trainable and adapts well to both city and country living.
Norfolk Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Norfolk Terrier is a cheerful, fearless little working terrier originally bred in England to hunt vermin and bolt foxes. Despite their compact size, they have a big personality: affectionate with family, game for adventure, and always alert to what is happening around them. Their drop ears and scruffy, weather-resistant coat give them a distinctive, charming look that matches their lively spirit.
Norwich Terrier
Terrier · Small
A small but mighty terrier, the Norwich Terrier is known for its alert expression and big personality. Originally bred to hunt vermin, these affectionate dogs are now beloved companions that balance a spirited, courageous nature with a surprisingly cuddly side.
Parson Russell Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Parson Russell Terrier is a lively, fearless terrier originally developed in England for fox hunting. Bred to be fast, agile, and determined, this breed combines sharp intelligence with nonstop enthusiasm for action. Their confident personality and work ethic make them especially rewarding for active owners who enjoy training and adventure.
Rat Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Rat Terrier is a lively, quick-thinking American farm dog originally bred for vermin control and all-around utility work. They are affectionate with their families, highly alert, and always ready for activity, which makes them fun companions for active homes. Their mix of terrier grit and strong people focus is what makes the breed especially charming.
Russell Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Russell Terrier is a spirited, agile, and tireless working terrier originally bred for fox hunting in England. Standing just 10 to 12 inches tall, they are known for their sturdy rectangular bodies, keen intelligence, and affectionate nature towards their families.
Scottish Terrier
Terrier · Small
Known as the 'Diehard' for its rugged nature, the Scottish Terrier is a sturdy, short-legged breed with a distinctive beard and eyebrows. Originally bred for hunting vermin in the Scottish Highlands, they are independent thinkers with a dignified and loyal personality.
Sealyham Terrier
Terrier · Small
Originally bred in Wales for hunting badgers and otters, the Sealyham Terrier is a sturdy, brave, and remarkably calm small dog. Known for their distinct 'beard' and white coat, they are often described as the 'couch potato' of the terrier world, offering a more laid-back personality than many of their cousins.
Skye Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Skye Terrier is a distinctive long-bodied Scottish terrier known for deep loyalty and a calm, dignified presence at home. Originally developed on the Isle of Skye to hunt foxes and badgers, this breed combines bravery with a surprisingly affectionate bond to its family. Their flowing coat and elegant outline make them unforgettable, while their devoted personality is what truly sets them apart.
Smooth Fox Terrier
Terrier · Small
Originally bred to flush foxes from their dens, the Smooth Fox Terrier is a lively and brave companion. They are known for their distinctive V-shaped ears and energetic personality, making them perfect for active families who enjoy a spirited dog.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Terrier · Medium
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a jolly, warm-hearted Irish breed known for its silky, waving single coat. They are less 'scrappy' than other terriers, maintaining a playful and puppy-like enthusiasm throughout their lives.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Terrier · Medium
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a stocky, muscular warrior with a sensitive soul and a deep love for its family. Renowned as the 'Nanny Dog' for its legendary patience with children, this breed combines formidable strength with a gentle, people-oriented temperament.
Welsh Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Welsh Terrier is a lively, confident terrier with a big personality in a compact body. Bred in Wales as a hardy hunting dog, this breed is known for its boldness, intelligence, and cheerful attitude. Their classic wiry coat and playful, people-oriented nature make them stand out among terriers.
West Highland White Terrier
Terrier · Small
Known affectionately as the 'Westie,' this sturdy little terrier from Scotland is famous for its bright white coat and cheerful, spirited personality. They are intelligent, self-assured, and surprisingly tough for their size, making them excellent companions for active families and apartment dwellers alike.
Wire Fox Terrier
Terrier · Small
The Wire Fox Terrier is a bold, quick-minded terrier originally developed in England for fox hunting. This breed is lively, curious, and always ready for action, making it a fun but demanding companion for active owners. Their distinctive wiry coat and confident personality give them a unique, charismatic presence.