Different types of terrier dogs

To determine whether or not a terrier is the right dog right for you, knowing the basics of different types is helpful.

Terriers are quite well known for their spirited character and popularity as loving pets. Terriers are also known for their loyalty and protective natures. They also can possess a low tolerance towards other animals which can make owning additional pets more difficult. There are several different types of terrier breeds, and the best way to determine whether or not a terrier is right for you is to become familiar with each of their needs.

The Airedale terrier has a small build and wiry coat, which requires a lot of grooming. They are extremely energetic and must be kept occupied to prevent boredom. However, these terriers are very good natured and great with children. Airedales love to be around water and would make excellent dogs for the outdoorsy family. They are intelligent, easily trained, and good watchdogs as well. The Kerry blue terrier is affectionate, loyal, and intelligent. This type of terrier requires weekly brushing and occasional trimming of its coat. Lakeland terriers have a friendly disposition and are very self-assured. Their coat also requires weekly brushing, but they make great companions for nearly anyone.

Yorkshire terriers are toy breeds. They are very affectionate, loyal, and courageous. Their sharp sense of hearing enables them to alert owners of intruders. Because these dogs do not shed, they make good pets for those with allergies; however, they do not have an undercoat which makes them chill easily. They should not be handled by younger children due to their small size and jumping nature. In spite of their small stature, they are extremely protective and will fight other animals. Another toy terrier is the Toy Fox which also has keen hearing. They, too, should be kept warm and do not like to get wet. Silky toy terriers are longer than tall, inquisitive in nature, and extremely friendly.



American Hairless terriers are energetic, smart, and easy to train. They are quite friendly, getting along well with children and other dogs as well as cats. Therefore, companionship with one of these dogs is quite fulfilling. On the downside, however, this terrier breed must be kept protected against extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, because they have no hair and when overheated or stressed, their skin may sweat. Australian terriers have lots of spirit. They are natural diggers and love to jump; therefore, one must take this into consideration before bringing them around smaller children. The Scottish terrier is both dependable and loyal but quite sensitive.

Bull terriers get quite attached to their owners. They are very playful and require a lot of attention to prevent boredom which can lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging. They can often be excessive barkers as well. People with children will find this dog quite enjoyable as it will spend endless hours of playtime with them. American Pit bull terriers are known to be excellent family protectors. This terrier breed is both intelligent and obedient. Contrary to its bad reputation, pit bulls are actually quite loving and loyal if they are properly trained. They are normally non-aggressive towards people; however, it is best to socialize them early around children or other pets. The Staffordshire bull terrier is muscular and quite stocky; however, these dogs are very agile. They are quite aggressive towards other dogs but have a good reputation with children. The American Staffordshire has a muscular build and is quite protective. They can be extremely devoted to their family but should be socialized with children while young. Because of their assertive nature, these terriers may be more difficult to train and most do not get along with other animals.

Cairn terriers are small but can handle the delights of children. They are generally appropriate in settings which will provide consistent discipline for their active and digging demeanor. Another small terrier is the Cesky. They also make good family pets; they are quite fond of children and get along well with other pets. The Irish terrier is good natured and enjoys the company of kids. They do well as house pets and being quite devoted to family, this terrier makes a great guard dog in spite of its smaller size. Jack Russell terriers are very spirited and enjoy playing. Although they can bore easily, unlike most other terriers, they can invent their own entertainment. Jack Russells love children and are very devoted to their owners. The Manchester terrier not only makes a good house pet but is also a good watch dog. They have small builds but are quite agile and strong.

Bedlington terriers are strong with an assertive nature. They love to play and are good runners. These terriers make fine family pets as they are quite gentle. The Black Russian terrier is also a fast runner and can be very territorial. They have an easygoing temperament, are easily trained, and well suited in family situations consisting of small children. Border terriers are affectionate and easily trained. They have a strong, medium build and are actually recognizable by their otter-like head. The Norwich terrier has the distinguishing feature of prick ears and is built small. Their coats should be brushed often though it is not recommended to trim. They are highly spirited and fearless dogs. The Boston terrier is very intelligent and loving. They do extremely well around children and will provide unconditional love and devotion to their family.

Another interesting terrier is the Rat terrier. They can be trained easily and make good housedogs. These terriers almost seem to long for human attention and are quite playful. Norfolk terriers require consistent rules while training. They can be difficult to housebreak, and most will dig and bark in excess. However, they enjoy playing with toys, are good around children, and do well with other pets. Cautious with strangers but devoted to its owner is the Skye terrier. These terriers are known for their stylish demeanor, strength, and agility. The Tibetan terrier almost resembles a sheepdog. They are also skittish around unfamiliar people but very dedicated to their owners. They do not like to be alone and will bark incessantly; however, this can make them efficient guard dogs.

A terrier known for dislike of other animals is the Tenterfield. These dogs can be trained to get along with other dogs but should not be around other types of animals. They make good family dogs; they are extremely active and enjoy swimming, walking, and playing. Welsh terriers are friendly and outgoing, eager to please, quite happy, and generally not afraid of anything. The West Highland terrier is usually friendly around everyone unless provoked. They are normally quite laid back and do not like fighting with other dogs. These terriers will bark a lot and most dig by nature. Sealyham terriers desire attention and are ideal for people of all ages. They are extremely curious dogs and almost clownish in behavior. Soft-Coated Wheaton terriers are one of the less aggressive terrier breeds. They get along well with children and like to express their love towards people. They are often housedogs and require sensitive yet firm discipline. There are two types of Fox terriers. The Wire Fox terrier is very playful and enjoys water immensely. They are friendly but curious and will get into things if left unattended. The Smooth Fox terrier is much the same as the Wire Fox breed but tend to be more aggressive towards other animals.

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