Terrier Group Dogs Are Feisty And Stubborn
Terrier Group dogs range in size from the tiny Yorkie (Yorkshire Terriers are in the AKC Toy Group) to the big Airedale; from the small but scrappy Westie to the sometimes sweet, sometimes fierce American Staffordshire Terrier. In between, you have a choice of various sizes and personalities.
Terriers require patience and persistence. They are sometimes stubborn but are always ready for play. Their attitude can make training them challenging. Terriers are extremely loyal and bond closely with their family.
Terriers do require a moderate amount of care. Long-haired, silky Skyes need regular brushing. Similarly, the dense undercoat and rough fur of a Kerry Blue will take regular clipping to keep the dog’s coat in good condition.
Because they are so competitive and high-energy, many terriers won’t take well to regular grooming. More so than most breeds, it’s essential to teach them that you are in charge early in their lives.
Terrier Group Dogs
American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier descended from the Rat Terrier. Breeders in Louisiana produced a hairless variation of the Rat Terrier that the AKC recognized in 2010. Both varieties are hypoallergenic. Some are born with a short, shiny coat.
Grooming requirements for the American Hairless Terrier are minimal. They do need protection from the sun to prevent sunburn.
If you have a rat problem, this breed and the Rat Terrier can take care of it. According to a story on the AKC website, a [wiki]Feist (dog)[/wiki] killed over 2,500 rats in a single day!
Airdale Terrier
“King of the Terriers,” the Airedale Terrier is the largest in the AKC Terrier group. It first appeared during the min-1800s in the River Aire valley dale of [wiki]Yorkshire[/wiki], England. Airedales were hunting and working dogs.
As a family pet, it is a reliable watchdog and faithful companion. An Airedale is not a threat to small children, but it can be boisterous, so should not be left unattended with them.
Airedale’s hair coats are either black and tan or grizzle and tan. It has a short and wiry coat that needs only occasional brushing to keep it looking good. As a hypoallergenic dog, it sheds very little.
Airedale Terrier Club of America
American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a stiff, glossy coat of several different colors. It is similar to the American Pit Bull. However, the AKC does not recognize the Pit Bull breed. Also, it would be best if you did not confuse the Pitt Bull with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier from the United Kingdom.
The “Amstaff” is a strong, muscular dog with great confidence. They are very loyal and dependable family pets.
The Amstaff and the Pit Bull are often listed as breeds that should be limited or banned. Unfortunately, some Pitt Bull owners do not take care to socialize their dogs, and Pitt Bulls have harmed other dogs and people.
Staffordshire Terrier Club of America
Bedlington Terrier
[wiki]Bedlington[/wiki] is a mining town in [wiki]Northumberland[/wiki], England. The Bedlington Terrier hunts for otters, rabbits, and other small games.
These Terriers are “gentle as lambs” and wear a coat that looks much like sheep’s wool. However, they have plenty of “wolves ” inside if provoked. They were once used for dogfighting when that sport was still legal and widespread.
Bedlingtons are loyal and obedient house pets. They are non-shedding hypoallergenic dogs. In most pictures, they appear white, but they come in several different colors.
Bedlington Terrier Club of America
Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier comes from Australia from terriers imported from Great Britain. It is a small self-confident dog bred to kill rodents and snakes. Like most other terriers, it has above-average dog intelligence.
Aussies have a rough double coat that needs weekly brushing. It is a sturdy little dog and has very few health problems. They are very active, so they will need some room to romp and play to avoid becoming bored.
You should keep your Australian Terrier on a leash or in a fenced-in backyard. Aussie Terriers have a strong hunting instinct and may stray from home searching for something to chase.
Australian Terrier Club of America
Border Terrier
If your name begins with Border, you probably come from an area between two countries. The Border Terrier supports that assumption since it comes from the border area between Scotland and England. They may share ancestors with the Bedlington and the Dandie Dinmont Terriers.
Border Terriers are tough, just plain, hard-working farm and hunting dogs. They have legs long enough to keep up with foxhounds and horses and bodies small enough to flush out the fox or other game if it went to the ground.
Border Terriers are more “peaceful” than some other terrier breeds and get along well with other family pets, except maybe the cats.
Border Terrier Club of America
Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier has Terrier and Bulldog ancestry. They are muscular, sturdy-looking dogs with a gentle disposition. Perhaps if “Bull” was removed from its name, it would not be confused with some other breeds that have been restricted or banned in several countries.
The Bull Terrier has a unique egg-shaped head and almond-shaped eyes. They were originally all white, but breeders introduced other colors to strengthen the breed due to medical problems with the all-white dogs.
The Bull Terriers has a short, flat coat that needs very little grooming. A Bull Terrier named [wiki]Bullseye (mascot)[/wiki] is the mascot of Target.
Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers began in Scotland with the job of rooting out foxes, rodents, and other critters from [wiki]cairn[/wiki] in the [wiki]highlands[/wiki] of Scotland. They are one of the oldest Scottish dog breeds
The Carin Terrier is a rugged, active, loyal dog who does well in any housing situation but does better if it gets plenty of exercises. It sheds minimally, and weekly brushing to remove dead hair is usually enough grooming.
The most famous Cairn Terrier was a dog named Terry who played the part of [wiki]Toto (Oz)[/wiki] in the movie [wiki]The Wizard of Oz (1939 film)[/wiki]. Perhaps the most famous line of the film is when [wiki]Judy Garland[/wiki] says, “Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”
Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is the national dog of the Czech Republic. It is a relative newcomer to the United States and the AKC registry. The first Ceskys arrived in the late 1980s, and the AKC recognized the breed in 2011.
The Cesky Terrier’s ancestry includes the Scottish Terrier and the Sealyham Terrier, so it naturally resembled those breeds. The breed owes its existence to Frantisek Horak, who wanted a dog to hunt in the forests of [wiki]Bohemia[/wiki].
There are only a small number of this breed in the United States. So, finding a groomer familiar with its grooming requirements may be difficult. Its coat should be clipped rather than the stripping suggested for other Terrier breeds.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a unique-looking dog with a unique name. It seems [wiki]Sir Walter Scott[/wiki] wrote a book, [wiki]Guy Mannering[/wiki], that included a character named Dandie Dinmont. The Dinmont character was likely based on a person named James Davidson, who gets credit for starting the Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed.
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has short legs, a long body, and big round soulful eyes that make it look like a wise little dog.
The number of registered Dandies has decreased so much that they are a vulnerable breed in the United Kingdom. They tend to be more laid back than some Terrier breeds but enjoy playing with kids. They are good watchdogs and companions.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier Club of America
Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is the only Terrier breed that has an all-red coat. It may be fitting that it hails from Ireland, a country with more people with red hair than any other country in the world.
The Irish Terrier is one of the oldest Terrier breeds and, along with 14 other dog breeds, was recognized by the AKC in 1885, just a few months after the AKC began operating.
Like most Terriers, the Irish can be stubborn but also eager to please their owner. It is an affectionate, loyal dog ready to protect its family.
Glen of Imaal Terrier
The [wiki]Glen of Imaal[/wiki] is a remote area of Ireland and the birthplace of the Glen Of Imaal Terrier. In Ireland, earning a living was challenging, so the dogs were expected to earn their keep.
It was a hunting dog but also had to do other chores around the farm, including in the kitchen. They seem to be more easy-going and quieter than most Terrier breeds.
This breed almost died out in the early 20th century and is still a rare breed. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom lists the Glen of Imaal Terrier as a vulnerable breed.
Glen of Imaal Terrier Club of America
Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier, also from Ireland, is famous for his solid blue coat. It is one of the larger Terriers. Its name comes from [wiki]County Kerry[/wiki], where it originated. The Kerry Blue Terrier is a hunting dog but now is usually kept as a family pet and companion dog.
The Kerry Blue has a single coat and does not shed. Its hair continues to grow, so it will need trimming every six weeks. Many people who may be allergic to dogs can tolerate this breed.
The primary life purpose of this Terrier is to be with its family and do whatever the family is doing. They love outdoor fun and games or indoor stuff like watching TV beside a friendly warm fire.
United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club
Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland is a small dog, but like all Terriers, it does not believes that. It is confident and bold dog but nevertheless is very friendly. Because it is also a low-shedding dog, its coat will need to be either plucked or trimmed.
Lakeland is a relatively rare breed and is considered one of [wiki]vulnerable dog breeds of the United Kingdom [/wiki].
The United States Lakeland Terrier Club
Miniature Bull Terrier
The Miniature Bull Terrier is, for all practical purposes, a Bull Terrier in a more petite body. Before 1991, they were considered varieties of the same breed. Now they are considered separate breeds.
Miniature Bull Terriers are loving dogs, but Terriers can have a stubborn streak. Their coats come in several colors, including an all-white version. Their hair is short, so it is to care for it.
Miniature Bull Terriers have an egg-shaped head and triangular eyes like the Bull Terrier.
Miniature Bull Terrier Club of America
Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier got its name from the city of [wiki]Manchester[/wiki], where it originated. Like the Poodle, the Manchester Terrier shows up in different AKC groups depending on the dog’s size. The larger or standard Manchester is in the Terrier Group, while the smaller one is part of the Toy Group. The Toy Manchester Terrier must be less than 12 pounds.
The Manchester has a short, smooth coat that requires very little grooming other than a bath. It usually has a black and tan coat, although some are solid black.
The Manchester is a fierce ratter, sometimes used in the now illegal sport of [wiki]rat-baiting[/wiki]. Manchesters are also one of [wiki]vulnerable dog breeds of the United Kingdom [/wiki].
American Manchester Terrier Club
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest and most famous of the three Schnauzer breeds. Although the Schnauzers, Miniature, Standard, and Giant have a common ancestor (the Standard Schanzuer0, they are considered separate breeds and not different sizes of the same breed.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog with a friendly attitude. They are not generally aggressive but are good watchdogs that enjoy sounding the alarm whenever the doorbell rings or a stranger is at the door.
The Miniature sheds very little and will need grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. If its hair gets too long, tangles become a real problem. It would be best if you combed your Mini frequently.
American Miniature Schnauzer Club
Norfolk Terrier
Norfolk Terriers are clever, friendly, and loyal little dogs that are active but will gladly curl up in your lap. They need to be part of the family.
Norfolks originate from the [wiki]Norfolk[/wiki] county of Great Britain. They are very similar in appearance to the Norwich Terrier. The significant difference is that Norfolk’s ears fold, and Norwich’s ears stand upright (prick). Then all you have to do is remember which one has the folded ears. I do this by calling the Norfolk the “Norfold” Terrier.
The Norfolk and Norwich Terriers are the smallest of the [wiki]working terriers[/wiki]. They work in packs, so they get along well with other dogs.
Norwich Terrier
Height: 10 inches Weight: 12 pounds Lifespan: 12-15 years Country: Great Britain
The Norwich Terrier is a little, toy-size dog [wiki]earthdog[/wiki] named for [wiki]Norwich[/wiki], England. They are feisty and love to play. However, like their cousins, the Norfolk Terriers, they love to snuggle in your lap.
Many terriers breeds hunt rodents, and the Norwich is no exception. It is an excellent ratter, but that occupation is no longer in great demand, so now they are family companion dogs and excel at that job.
They have a soft undercoat and a harsh outercoat that needs frequent brushing to maintain a good appearance. Clipping will cause the color and texture of its coat to fade over time.
Norwich Terrier Club of America
Parson Russell Terrier
The Parsons Russell Terrier (aka Parson Jack Russel Terrier) is an intelligent, independent-minded hunting dog. They are small dogs (under 20 pounds) but still run fast enough to keep up with horses on a foxhunt.
The Parson’s coat is generally white but may have markings of black, brown, cream, tan, or all 4 of these colors. They need regular brushing and clipping to keep away tangles. They love digging, so they may need bathing quite often.
The Parson Russell Terrier is a friendly, affectionate dog with an all-around terrier personality. It is not an aggressive dog but does not tolerate rough handling. If you want a docile, submissive dog, do not get a Parson Russell Terrier.
Rat Terrier
As its name suggests, the Rat Terrier is a first-class rat exterminator. If you don’t have a rat problem, this dog is a great family playmate and guard dog and does everything you want a dog to do.
Teddy Roosevelt gets the credit for naming the Rat Terrier. It is one of three Terrier breeds developed in the United States, American Staffordshire, and American Hairless Terriers.
The Rat Terrier comes in two sizes, the Miniature and the Standard. The Miniature is under 13 inches tall.
Russell Terrier
The Russell Terrier originated in England for use in foxhunts. It was then further developed in Australia into the breed recognized by the AKC.
Russel Terriers have common ancestry with the Parson Russel Terrier but have a different shape body and are considered a separate breed.
The AKC does not recognize the Jack Russell Terrier breed. The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America maintains a Jack Russell Terrier breed registry not associated with the AKC.
Russell Terriers have a primarily white coat that can be smooth, broken, or rough. It may have markings of black, brown, tan, cream, or these colors.
American Russell Terrier Club
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier was developed in the [wiki]Highlands[/wiki] of [wiki]Scotland[/wiki] to hunt rodents, badgers, and foxes. Scotties have a dignified, almost-human personality. They have a distinctive appearance and could be the most recognizable Terrier breeds. They may also be the oldest.
Scotties have been pets for many famous people, including Queen Victoria, Presidents George W. Bush, Dwight Eisenhower, actors Humphrey Bogart and Tatum O’Neil, etc. The most famous Scottie was [wiki]Fala (dog)[/wiki], who was a constant companion of President Franklin Roosevelt. The most infamous owner of a Scottie is probably [wiki]Eva Braun[/wiki].
The Scottie has a solid color coat, the most common being black. They can also be brindle (black, red, or silver) and Wheaten.
Scottish Terrier Club of America
Sealyham Terrier
The Sealyham Terrier breed began in [wiki]Wales[/wiki] at the [wiki]Sealyham House[/wiki] in the second half of the 1800s. Its coat is predominately white and may have some black, lemon, or tan markings. Its most unique-looking feature is the mass of hair, called a “fall,” which can cover its forehead.
Sealyhams are between small or medium-size dogs. They have a big dog bark and are excellent watchdogs. This breed is affectionate and makes good family pets in the city or the country.
Sealyhams were quite popular with Hollywood stars after the [wiki]World War I[/wiki]. Humphrey Bogart, Elizabeth Taylor, and other Hollywood royalty-owned Sealyhams. Unfortunately, they have become a rare breed and are among the [wiki]vulnerable dog breeds of the United Kingdom[/wiki].
Skye Terrier
This low but long dog comes from the [wiki]Isle of Skye[/wiki] and hunts for fox and badger. It is a reasonably old breed, and the AKC recognized the breed in 1887. It, too, is now a rare and somewhat endangered Terrier breed.
The long, luxurious coat of the Skye needs weekly brushing. Some Skye Terriers have upright or prick ears, while others have ears that fold. Other than the ears, they are the same breed.
Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier was originally developed for traditional [wiki]fox hunting[/wiki]. Its job was to flush or “bolt” the fox from its hiding place so the bigger dogs and men on horses could give chase. After all, galloping across the countryside and jumping fences was the primary purpose of fox hunting.
The primary color of the Smooth Fox Terrier is white. Some may have black, tan, or both colors in varying degrees of prevalence. Grooming is relatively easy, but they need clipping to keep their coat looking smooth.
Fox Terriers are active dogs, so it may be best for those with room for the dog to get some exercise. Sitting on the couch can become too boring if you love to chase the fox.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy, friendly, devoted dog that, like most Terriers, can be stubborn. They are good family dogs that love to play with children. With proper socialization, they get along with cats and other family pets.
The Wheaten started in [wiki]Ireland[/wiki] as ordinary people’s general-purpose farm dog and family companion. It was not to the [wiki]manor[/wiki] born.
The only coat color the Wheaten Terrier has is, you guessed it, Wheaten. It has soft hair that needs a lot of grooming attention.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was bred for the gruesome blood sports of [wiki]dog fighting[/wiki] and [wiki]rat baiting[/wiki]. It originates from [wiki]Staffordshire[/wiki] and the city of [wiki]Manchester[/wiki].
The Staffordshire is a gentle, loving family dog despite being bred for fighting. If challenged, however, it may not back down from a fight. They need good early socialization to learn how to get along with other pets.
The Staffordshire is a low-maintenance dog that only needs the routing bath and brushing. They can have a coat of several different solid colors or combined colors.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of America
Welsh Terrier
The Welsh Terrier is another dog bred from [wiki]Wales[/wiki] and used for hunting foxes, rats, and [wiki]badgers[/wiki]. It may be the oldest dog breed from Great Britain.
Welsh Terriers are good with kids and love to play. They have a Terrier attitude so that they can be stubborn. They are known to require more training than the average dog.
Their coats are generally black and tan, but some grizzle (a mixture of black and tan or white). They shed very little. If you do not hand strip for grooming, you must clip them every two to three months.
Wire Fox Terrier
Breeders intended the Wire Fox Terrier for fox hunting, similar to the Smooth Fox Terrier. The Wire Fox is an energetic dog but also likes some downtime.
The Wire and Smooth Fox Terriers may have some common ancestors and are similar looking, but they are separate breeds. The Wire Fox Terrier has won Best in Show of the [wiki]Westminster Dog Show[/wiki] more than any other dog breed.
If you want a show dog, you must put in a lot of grooming time. Otherwise, it will need clipping as it sheds very little. They make good family pets for those willing to put in the training effort when it’s not fox hunting or strutting around the show floor.
American Fox Terrier Club
