Terrier Dog Breeds
Find The One That's Right For You!
Most of the terrier dog breeds were originally developed in the British Isles. Initially, they were working dogs used in hilly farmlands to hunt down small animals in dens or burrows or eradicate vermin. Their double coat, strong jaws, digging ability and quickness have equipped them well for these jobs.
The first comment people usually make about the terrier dogs is that
they are a feisty bunch! And that is certainly true, but they are also
very smart, alert, enthusiastic, energetic, loyal and fearless -
emphasis on fearless.
They love to play and always look like they are ready and waiting for
some exciting action. And if it doesn't happen, they will find a way to
let you know they want some attention.
You'll never have a chance to get
bored if you have a terrier around the house. I know this from first
hand experience being bossed around by the largest of the terriers, an
Airedale - nicknamed "the king of the terriers", a moniker my dog has
really taken to heart!
Because the dogs in this group are so lively and engaging, it naturally
evolved that in addition to their working abilities, they have also
become beloved companions in family homes.
Meet the Terrier Dog Breeds
Terrier Dog Breed Traits
Don't expect to get a terrier's attention if they have spotted, or given chase to, a moving object! They
will be completely focused on their target until their mission is resolved.
As a result, they need ongoing training to reinforce recall commands that are important to their safety.
While terriers are intelligent and have been trained for a variety of jobs, they can be a bit willful. The solution
to this is ongoing training.
Terrier dog breeds in this AKC group
are inherently alert in nature, have keen hearing and will cock an ear
at the slightest sound. As such, they make excellent watch dogs.
This is not an aggressive breed, but they will vie for leadership with other dogs - though not
in a vicious way.
When it comes to humans, you must demonstrate that you are the leader of the pack and this
will be respected if you train your terrier in a firm yet kindly manner.
Terrier PlaytimeTerrier Dog Breeds As Family Pets
Around the home they are protective pets and will not back down if an outside threat to the family is perceived. The larger ones can certainly hold their own in a confrontation.
They are not in the least fragile, very
adaptable and make great family dogs.
Some, like the Jack Russell Terrier have a lot of showmanship in them and in earlier times were circus performers.
Today, you are apt to see them frequently in television shows, commercials and definitely participating in the dog shows.
Terrier Health
Generally speaking terrier dog breeds are a pretty hardy bunch and quite healthy. They are not known to be subject to any unusual diseases.
That
being
said, it is important to make sure they were bred by a knowledgeable and
responsible breeder.
However, terriers are tough and not ones to let on when they feel out of
sorts, to the degree that they will often give no indication of any
aches and pains or other health troubles.
Many times, they just go on
about their business
as if nothing is wrong. These dogs are no wimps!
A dog health handbook such as this excellent one -
Dr. Pitcairn's Guide to Natural Health For Dogs
can really help owners know what to look for when inspecting their terrier.
Terrier Dog Breeds Come In Many Sizes
This group has
something for everyone when it comes to size! From the very small Cairn and West Highland
Terriers, to the king of Terriers - the Airedale.
The small size terrier dogs include the Australian, Border,
Cairn, Dandie Dinmont,
Norfolk, Norwich, Sealyham. Skye, Scottish and West Highland White.
Their lack of height does not denote a lack of spunk - far from it!
However, while some dog lovers find the smaller dog's bark a little on
the high pitched side, they can't deny their cuteness.
The medium size terriers include the Bedlington, Smooth Fox and Wire
Fox Terriers, Glen of Imaal, Irish, Kerry Blue, Lakeland, Manchester,
Miniature Bull, Parson Russell, Staffordshire Bull, and Welsh.
The largest terriers in the group of includes the American
Staffordshire Terrier, Irish Terrier, Kerry Blue, Bull Terrier, Soft
Coated Wheaten, and of course the "king" Airedale.
Many of the terrier breeds have done very well in dog shows. For
example, the Wire Fox Terrier has won more best in show titles at the
famous Westminster Dog Show than any other breed.
Click on any of the terrier breeds within the table above to learn many more details about each of these wonderful dogs.
More AKC Dog Groups
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