Distinguished by their tenacity and spirited demeanor, the AKC terrier group comprises breeds known for their fearless nature and historical roles in hunting vermin and other pests. Terriers have origins tracing back to the British Isles, and were bred to dig and burrow, often entering underground dens to chase after rats, foxes, and other game. The group’s members range from the compact but sturdy Yorkshire Terrier to the robust Airedale Terrier. While each breed varies in size and coat type, they all share a common trait: an indomitable spirit. Aside from their historical duties, terriers are recognized for their bold personalities, keen intelligence, and often, their cheeky sense of humor, making them captivating companions both in and out of the show ring.
Terrier Group List
| Breed | Image | Origin | Life Expectancy | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miniature Schnauzer |  | Germany | 12-15 yrs | Small |
| West Highland White Terrier |  | Scotland | 13-15 yrs | Small |
| Scottish Terrier |  | Scotland | 12-12 yrs | Small |
| Bull Terrier |  | England | 12-13 yrs | Large |
| Airedale Terrier |  | England | 11-14 yrs | Large |
| Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier |  | Ireland | 12-14 yrs | Medium |
| Cairn Terrier |  | Scotland | 13-15 yrs | Toy |
| Jack Russell Terrier |  | England | 12-14 yrs | Toy |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier |  | England | 12-14 yrs | Medium |
| Rat Terrier |  | United States of America (USA) | 12-18 yrs | Small |
| American Staffordshire Terrier |  | United States | 12-16 yrs | Large |
| Border Terrier |  | England | 12-15 yrs | Toy |
| Wire Fox Terrier |  | England | 12-15 yrs | Small |
| Norwich Terrier |  | United Kingdom | 12-15 yrs | Toy |
| Miniature Bull Terrier |  | England | 11-13 yrs | Medium |
| Welsh Terrier |  | Wales | 12-15 yrs | Small |
| American Hairless Terrier |  | United States | 14-16 yrs | Small |
| Parson Russell Terrier |  | England | 13-15 yrs | Small |
| Irish Terrier |  | Ireland | 13-15 yrs | Medium |
| Australian Terrier |  | Australia | 11-15 yrs | Small |
| Norfolk Terrier |  | Great Britain | 12-16 yrs | Toy |
| Smooth Fox Terrier |  | England | 12-15 yrs | Small |
| Lakeland Terrier |  | England | 12-15 yrs | Small |
| Kerry Blue Terrier |  | Ireland | 12-15 yrs | Medium |
| Bedlington Terrier |  | England | 11-16 yrs | Small |
| Sealyham Terrier |  | Wales | 12-14 yrs | Small |
| Glen of Imaal Terrier |  | Ireland | 10-15 yrs | Medium |
| Dandie Dinmont Terrier |  | Scotland | 12-15 yrs | Small |
| Skye Terrier |  | Scotland | 12-14 yrs | Medium |
| Cesky Terrier |  | Czech Republic | 12-15 yrs | Small |
Pros and Cons of Owning Terrier Dogs
Pros:
- Loyalty and Affection:
Terriers are known to be fiercely loyal to their families. They can form strong bonds and be affectionate companions, providing great emotional support and companionship. - Intelligence and Trainability:
Most terriers are quite intelligent and responsive, making them reasonably easy to train. They quickly pick up commands and tricks, making the training process enjoyable. - Alertness and Vigilance:
Terriers are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. They are quick to notify their owners of any unusual activity or presence, adding an extra layer of security. - Adaptability:
Terrier dogs usually adapt well to various living conditions. They can live happily in apartments or larger homes, as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Cons:
- Stubbornness:
Terriers are known for their stubborn streak. This trait can sometimes make training challenging and requires patience and consistency. - Prey Drive:
Many terriers have a high prey drive due to their historical roles as vermin catchers. This trait can make them more likely to chase after smaller animals. - Grooming:
Some terrier breeds require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and manageable. This may include regular brushing and, in some cases, hand-stripping. - Noise Sensitivity:
Terriers are often vocal and can be sensitive to noise. They may bark in response to various sounds, which could be an issue in certain living situations, such as apartments. - Socialization Requirements:
Proper socialization is crucial for terriers to prevent them from becoming overly aggressive or fearful. Early exposure to various people, animals, and environments is essential to develop a well-rounded terrier.
More Resources
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