10 Types Of Terrier Dogs You Should Know

The Terrier group includes both big and small dogs, and they share a common ancestry and similar behavioral traits. Terriers were originally bred to rid barns and stables of vermin, dig out unwanted burrowing rodents, and be useful around the farm.

In England, where most of these breeds originated, terriers were used in the “poor man’s recreation” of rat killing and were also employed by the upper classes for fox hunting. Some terriers were bred to fight each other in pits, giving rise to the term “pit bulls.”

However, during the late 1900s, dogfighting was outlawed in most Western countries, and these dogs were subsequently bred for a friendly temperament rather than aggression. Terriers were bred to work independently, so they tend to be less attached to people compared to other similar dogs. However, terriers are smart and intelligent. With an owner who understands them and has both patience and a sense of humor, they can thrive and do exceptionally well.

Let’s explore ten types of terrier dog breeds and discover what makes each of them special.

Types of Terrier Dogs

1. Bull Terrier

Bull Terriers trace their origins back to the early 1800s in Europe, where bulldogs and terriers were crossbred for dog fighting. They were later mixed with other breeds, like Spanish Pointers, to create a larger and more agile dog. Training is crucial for Bull Terriers to highlight their positive traits and manage their more challenging behaviors. Despite their fierce ancestry, a well-socialized Bull Terrier is sweet-natured and playful.

Bull Terriers make excellent guard dogs, thanks to their muscular build and loud bark, which can deter potential intruders. They are best suited for families with older children who have experience handling strong-willed dogs. Orvis notes that young children may not understand a frustrated dog’s warning signs, and Bull Terriers might bite if handled roughly. They also tend to guard their food, so early training is essential to prevent this from becoming an issue.

These dogs can be aggressive towards other animals, including cats, small pets, and other dogs. While they can be socialized to tolerate other animals, they should never be left alone with them. Bull Terriers are high-energy and need plenty of exercise to prevent unwanted and destructive behaviors.

2. American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is a unique offshoot of the Rat Terrier, originating from a hairless pup named Josephine. These dogs are true terriers in temperament—intelligent, playful, and energetic. Their eagerness to please and cleverness make them easy to train. Alert and inquisitive, American Hairless Terriers are loyal and protective and make excellent watchdogs.

These loving and affectionate companions get along well with children and other animals, making them great family pets. Despite their high energy levels, they also enjoy curling up in laps and cuddling with their favorite people. According to HillsPet, they need about 30 minutes of walking each day and vigorous playtime to burn off excess energy and prevent boredom.

American Hairless Terriers have a strong prey drive and love chasing small animals and digging in the yard. It’s best to keep them on a leash or in a fenced yard to prevent them from running off after squirrels and other small creatures. The hairless dogs need extra protection from the elements. In the summer, they require sunscreen and shade, while in the colder months, they need to be bundled up in sweaters to stay warm.

3. Bedlington Terrier

Originally bred in the mining town of Bedlington in Northumberland, England, Bedlington Terriers were initially used for hunting vermin. However, their gentle nature and loyalty eventually made them popular as companion dogs. Bedlington Terriers are known for their charming, loving, and affectionate temperament. They form strong bonds with their families but can be reserved and cautious around strangers.

At home, Bedlingtons are calm and gentle, but they still possess the terrier instinct. Their strong prey drive may lead them to chase small animals like rabbits, squirrels, and sometimes cats, so proper training and supervision are crucial. PetMD notes that these moderately active dogs enjoy regular exercise, including daily walks and playtime, to keep them happy and healthy.

Due to their unique appearance and distinctive coat, Bedlington Terriers require regular grooming from puppyhood to prevent matting and maintain their looks. While they are not excessively high-energy dogs, they are curious and intelligent, making them generally easy to train. Bedlingtons show their gratitude with affectionate gestures after every adventure, making them delightful and loyal companions.

4. Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier, developed in Scotland as early as the 1600s, originated from a type of terrier known as the Scotch Terrier. These dogs were bred to dig into cairns, or man-made rock piles, to eliminate rodents. Cairn Terriers were created to be sturdy, hardworking dogs with plenty of drive and stamina, primarily to rid farms of foxes and rodents.

Cairn Terriers have a strong instinct to protect property, a trait deeply embedded in their DNA. Their history of patrolling Scottish farms has given them a courageous attitude, and they will sound the alarm if anyone approaches the house. While they get along well with other dogs, their strong hunting instincts mean they need to be socialized from a young age with cats and other small household pets.

Socialization also helps them adapt to family life, and once socialized, they get along well with children and make excellent family pets.

Cairn Terriers have boundless energy and enjoy walks and playtime. PDSA highlights that due to their strong hunting instincts, caution should be taken when they are off-leash, as it can be difficult to regain their attention once they catch a scent. Cairns can be independent and stubborn, so patience and persistence are required for training.

5. Border Terrier

The rugged little Border Terrier was developed in the 1700s along the border of Northumberland and Scotland. With its weather-resistant coat, loose skin, and legs built for running and digging, the Border Terrier became an indispensable companion for farmers, helping to protect livestock from foxes. These swift dogs could keep up with foxhounds and horses during hunts yet were small enough to dig into the ground and flush out foxes for hunters.

Border Terriers are sociable, playful, affectionate, and cheeky, making them great family dogs for active households. Originally bred to work alongside horses and hounds, they tend to get along well with both people and other animals. Borders are quick learners and easy to train, especially when training starts at a young age, although their intelligence can sometimes make them a bit stubborn.

PetPlan points out that adult Border Terriers need at least an hour of physical exercise each day. This intelligent breed also requires plenty of mental stimulation, so make time for lots of engaging games to keep them happy and well-rounded.

6. Australian Terrier

Australian Terriers were developed in Australia from a mix of working terriers brought over by British settlers in the 1800s. Their primary role was to eliminate rodents and snakes on remote farms in the Australian Outback. These small but sturdy dogs are brave, spirited, and lively, approaching life with a curious and determined terrier spirit.

Despite their small size, Australian Terriers are self-confident and alert watchdogs. They learn quickly and excel in various performance events. True to their terrier nature, Aussies love to play and have a strong instinct to chase small animals. AKC notes that they are adaptable to many situations and make devoted companions and excellent pets.

Australian Terriers have high energy levels and need regular exercise to stay happy and avoid boredom, which can lead to unwanted behaviors. Puppy training classes and basic obedience with treats, toys, or praise are beneficial for them. Aussies easily get bored with routine, so training sessions should be kept short and engaging.

7. Cesky Terrier

The Cesky Terrier, developed in the Czech Republic in 1949, was originally bred for hunting. According to WebMD, they are quite rare in America, with only about 600 Cesky Terriers in the country. These dogs are adventurous and clever but more laid-back than other terriers.

Cesky Terriers make great family dogs; they are fun to be around, protective of their owners, and good with other family members and dogs. They adapt quickly to changing conditions and bark moderately, without needing excessively high mental stimulation. As long as they have something fun to do, they’ll stay busy and happy.

Cesky Terriers are less stubborn than many other terriers, making them easier to train, but you still need to assert your authority for them to listen. They enjoy daily walks and play sessions as their regular exercise. When taking your Cesky Terrier for a walk, always use a leash. If your dog likes to play in the yard, ensure it is fenced in. Their strong prey drive means they might chase after anything they perceive as prey.

8. Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier, the largest of the terrier breeds, likely descended from the Otterhound and the now-extinct Black-and-Tan Old English Terrier. Named after the Aire Valley in Yorkshire, the Airedale is known for its intelligence, courage, power, and affectionate nature, although it tends to be reserved with strangers. Over the years, it has been utilized as a wartime dispatch carrier, police dog, guard dog, and big-game hunter.

Airedales are hardworking and playful dogs, embodying the feisty and fun-loving spirit of a true terrier. However, their strong instincts for digging, chasing, and barking can make them challenging for first-time dog owners. They require patient and consistent training with plenty of variety to prevent boredom. With their boundless energy, Airedales are perfect companions for active families.

As exceptional watchdogs and guard dogs, Airedales will bark continuously to alert their household of potential intruders and can become aggressive if they sense a threat to their family. They have high energy levels and thrive when kept active and engaged in sports, fieldwork, or agility training.

9. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Originally known as the Mustard and Pepper Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier was developed in the 1600s to hunt badgers, otters, and other quarries. This working terrier is designed for underground hunting and is characterized by its long, low body and distinctive large head. Though no longer commonly used in hunting, the Dandie Dinmont retains its strong hunting instincts and independent spirit.

Despite their active and clever nature, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are not as excitable or reactive as some other terriers. They are affectionate, sensitive, and devoted to their families, making them excellent and fun companions. These little dogs require at least an hour of exercise per day, along with play and training that engages both their bodies and minds. Once their exercise needs are met, they are quite easygoing and undemanding.

Ideal for rural or semi-rural homes with secure gardens and access to good country walks, Dandie Dinmont Terriers thrive in environments where they can stay busy and stimulated. According to Purina, they are better suited to homes with older children or without children, as they may be more comfortable in quieter settings.

10. American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier, often called AmStaff, has a rich history tracing back to the Bulldog and terrier-type dogs. Initially, these stocky dogs were used to help butchers manage bulls and to hunt, catch rats, and guard properties. Unfortunately, their involvement in blood sports like bear and bull baiting and dog fighting gave them a negative reputation. However, with the banning of these cruel sports, this dog breed was developed into the courageous and loyal companion we know today.

AmStaffs are smart, confident, and good-natured dogs. Known for their bravery, a well-socialized and responsibly bred AmStaff is a loyal and trustworthy friend. These muscular, bull-type terriers are keenly aware of their surroundings and always ready for action. AKC states that they are affectionate dogs around the house and enjoy both mental and physical challenges. Their intelligence and trainability have even landed them roles in showbiz.

AmStaffs require a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. However, simply leaving them in the yard all day is not ideal. They thrive on interaction and being part of the family. Long play sessions with their owners are essential for their physical and psychological well-being.

Conclusion

Terriers are a diverse and beloved group of dog breeds known for their courage, agility, and loyalty. Popular terrier dog breeds like the West Highland White Terrier, Irish Terrier, and the agile Border Terrier are cherished for their unique traits and adaptability.

Most terriers, including the courageous terrier breeds, make excellent companions due to their spirited and affectionate nature. Whether as hunting partners or family pets, terriers continue to be a favorite among dog lovers.