How Many Types Of Terriers Are There? +6 Popular Breeds

Most people think “terrier” refers to a particular breed, but there are many types of terriers. Their coats range from short and coarse to long and smooth, and they can be small, medium, or large.

Read on to learn about the different types of terriers. Discover why they are such popular dogs, and what their main characteristics are.

Table of Contents

What does it mean for a dog to be a terrier?

Before delving into the types and breeds of terriers, it is worth briefly explaining what this name means.

Terriers are a group or type of dog originally bred to kill vermin and hunt prey underground (badgers, rodents, foxes, moles). This group is distinguished by its great variety, as it includes breeds of different shapes and sizes. But all terriers have one thing in common: their personalities. The terrier dog is feisty, energetic, intelligent, and mischievous by nature.

What do terriers have in common?

Despite differences in size, physical traits, and coat type, all terriers are agile, athletic dogs.
They also exhibit high intelligence, hence they are capable of solving problems on their own.

Many terriers display an independent, curious, and headstrong temperament. Some can be remarkably demanding and domineering.
All types of terriers have a strong prey drive. Neither is considered 100% reliable around small pets like hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs. In addition, they may show some degree of aggressiveness towards other dogs.
Almost all terrier dogs are prone to barking and digging.

Most breeds were named after where they were developed.

Modern terrier types can trace their roots back to the ancient British Isles, where they were originally bred by farmers to control vermin populations.

These dogs were excellent as “buzzers”, always determined to serve their owners. Over time, they became working and companion dogs.

How many types of terriers are there?

According to the International Cynological Federation (the largest association of kennel clubs around the world), there are 4 types of terrier dogs in total. They are:

Small terriers
Large or medium-sized terriers

Companion terriers
Bull-type terriers

The vast majority of terrier breeds are registered in one of these categories.

How many terrier breeds are there?

In all, there are said to be around 40 terrier dog breeds. They can usually be easily identified because the word terrier is always part of the name.

Here we show you a selection of the most representative official breeds for each sub-type within the Terrier group.

Small terrier breeds

Australian terrier
Japanese Terrier (Japanese Terrier)
Cairn terrier

Dandie dinmont terrier
Norfolk terrier (Norfolk terrier)
Norwich terrier (Norwich terrier)

Scottish terrier (Scottish terrier)
Sealy ham terrier
Skye-terrier

jack Russell terrier
West highland white terrier (westie)
Czech terrier (Cesky terrier)

Medium and large terrier breeds
German Terrier (Jagdterrier)
Brazilian terrier

Kerry blue terrier
Soft-coated Irish Terrier (Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier)
Glen terrier (Glen of Imaal terrier)

Irish terrier (Irish terrier)
Airedale terrier
Bedlington-terrier

Border terrier
Wire-haired fox terrier
Smooth-haired fox terrier

Lakeland-terrier
Manchester terrier
Parson Russell terrier

Welsh terrier
Companion terrier breeds
Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)

Australian silky terrier
Miniature English Terrier (English Toy Terrier)
Bull terrier breeds

Bullterrier
Miniature bull terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff)

Staffordshire bull terrier

Not all kennel clubs and associations recognize the exact same breeds of terriers. For example, the Federation Cynologique Internationale does not recognize some of the breeds included in the American Kennel Club (AKC) Terrier groups, such as the American Hairless Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, and Rat Terrier.

For its part, the AKC does not include the Yorkshire Terrier or the German Terrier in this group, nor does it recognize breeds such as the Brazilian or Japanese Terrier.

Similarly, the United Kennel Club (UKC) includes two other breeds in this category; are the Patterdale terrier and the sporting Lucas terrier.

It is also worth mentioning that some dogs are not accepted as terriers despite having the term “terrier” in their name. Two examples of this are the Biewer Terrier and the Tibetan Terrier.

Further on: How Many Types of Schnauzers Are There? Characteristics and Differences

6 incredibly popular terrier breeds

1. Yorkshire terrier

When it comes to popularity, this is the true king of terriers. The Yorkshire Terrier, better known as the Yorkie, looks like a dog made to pamper. But contrary to popular belief, this round-eyed, silky-haired beauty was originally bred to hunt foxes, badgers, and small rodents.

Although the details of its origin are not completely clear, the breed is believed to be the result of a cross between the Maltese and different terriers, such as the Skye, the Dandie Dinmont, the Manchester, and the now extinct Paisley Terrier.

Yorkies are cheerful, confident, brave, and intelligent by nature. Sometimes they don’t seem aware of how small they are. As an owner, it is important not to let them get away with it; otherwise, they will soon see themselves as the leader of the pack.

It is also noted that, as a worthy representative of the terrier breeds, the Yorkie has a tendency to be aggressive towards small animals and other dogs. However, proper socialization and training, coupled with confident leadership, can make him the perfect pet for any home.

The coat of the adult Yorkshire terrier is usually a steel-blue or tan color. The puppies are born with a tan-black coat, which changes as they grow. Today you can find black and gold, black and tan, blue and gold, or blue and tan Yorkies.

Origin: United Kingdom
Recommended for: people who live alone and families in general
Maintenance level: low-medium

Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Temperament: active, loyal, affectionate, independent, energetic
Hypoallergenic: Yes

Recommended:

2. West highland white terrier

Developed from the Cairn terrier breed, the West Highland White terrier was specifically selected and bred to achieve its typical white coat. He is an intelligent, lively, fun-loving, and self-confident terrier.

Westies are furry and small, but they have a solid build. Two of its most striking features are expressive eyes and triangular ears that stand upright on its head.

Given its lineage as a hunting dog, it should always be trained not to chase cats or other small animals. He may also show aggression towards other dogs, but this behavior can still be corrected with training.

The traditional color of the West Highland White terrier is a spotless white, but some specimens may be wheat-colored or have darker-colored legs.

Origin: United Kingdom
Recommended for: families with older children

Maintenance level: low-medium
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Temperament: friendly, alert, courageous, independent

Hypoallergenic: Yes

3. Bull terriers

Another very popular type of terrier is the bull terrier, a robust, muscular, stubborn, and independent dog by nature, but very loyal to its owner. Originally, this breed was bred to hunt vermin and small animals but later began to be used in other hunting activities and blood sports.

Its predecessors were the Manchester terrier and the extinct Old English Bulldog. From the first, he inherited the speed and agility typical of terriers, and from the second, that muscular and robust constitution typical of bulldogs.

Despite its past as a fighting dog, the bull terrier is not a dangerous dog. From the standard dog to the Miniature Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, all types of Bull Terriers are considered good family pets.

Of course, it is warned that it is better to have it in families with older children since its strength and independent personality can be difficult for younger children to handle. Early socialization and consistent discipline are highly recommended in this breed to prevent aggression towards other dogs.

Bull terriers can be white, black, brindle, fawn, and tricolor.

Origin: United Kingdom
Recommended for: families with older children

Maintenance level: medium
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Temperament: active, friendly, loyal, protective, stubborn

Hypoallergenic: No

4. Jack Russell terrier

Named after the person who first developed this breed, the Jack Russell terrier emerged as a fox-hunting dog. The goal was to get a slightly longer-legged terrier, but small enough to drive the foxes out of their den.

Jack Russell is a small dog with a big personality. In fact, he can become rebellious, unruly, and territorial if he doesn’t perceive good leadership. Bad behaviors can also show up if he doesn’t get enough exercise.

In general, he is a bright, affectionate, loyal pet; He is even very good with children.

The standard color for Jack Russell terriers is predominantly white with black and/or tan markings.

Origin: United Kingdom

Recommended for: families with older children
Maintenance level: medium
Life expectancy: 13-16 years

Temperament: active, cheerful, loyal, headstrong, brave, independent
Hypoallergenic: No

It may interest you: The 11 Smallest Dog Breeds in the World [+Photos and Description]

5. American Staffordshire terrier

Also called American Staffy or Amstaff, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a moderately muscular and energetic breed, with a courageous and very loyal temperament. This confident, strong, and outgoing dog is the ideal companion for families who like to include their pets in different activities.

Although some think that the Amstaff has an intimidating appearance, the truth is that selective breeding has achieved a dog with a friendly temperament and patience with children. Likewise, he is brave enough to protect his owners if he thinks there is any danger.

Although it is considered a very obedient terrier breed, it is important that it is exercised on a regular basis. This is essential to keep him happy and prevent bad behavior. It is also distinguished by being a sociable dog that needs human contact; The American Staffy can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for an extended period of time.

His coat can be any color (white, black, brown), either solid, partial, or patched.

Origin: United States
Recommended for: families in general

Maintenance level: medium
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Temperament: attentive, sociable, kind, devoted, loyal, intelligent, tenacious

Hypoallergenic: No

6. Scottish terrier

Originally bred in Scotland, the Scottish or Scottish terrier was used to chase any type of small prey that lived in burrows. Its short legs and long body made it ideal for sneaking into hiding places and taking outfoxes, rabbits, badgers, and otters.

It is an intelligent, friendly, affectionate terrier breed, but at the same time strong and brave. It is known to have a tendency to be very protective of its owner and the entire family. He can be a stubborn and independent dog at times, even prone to mood swings.

This is why firm obedience training and proper socialization from puppyhood are always recommended. Consider that it is not the ideal pet for small children, or to interact with strangers.

The Scottish coat can range from pure black and wheaten to combinations of black brindle, red brindle, and silver brindle.

Origin: United Kingdom

Recommended for: people who live alone, families with older children
Maintenance level: medium
Life expectancy: 11-13 years

Temperament: intelligent, independent, alert, playful, agile
Hypoallergenic: Yes

FAQ’s

Which terrier breed is better? Which one is right for me?

With so many types of terrier dogs, it is impossible to select a single breed. The best terrier is the one that best adapts to what, as a future owner, you can offer. Before you bring a terrier home, make sure you know his personality, his basic requirements, and his level of maintenance.

Given their past as hunting dogs for vermin and small prey, he considers that many of the terrier breeds still retain a certain aggressive, stubborn and dominant instinct, hence they are not a suitable type of dog for everyone.

In general, a terrier may be perfect for you if you want an active, brave, and playful dog who likes to show off his canine IQ and personality. This is precisely what makes terriers one of the most popular types of dogs.

On the flip side, a terrier may not be the best choice for you if you’re not able to provide consistent puppy training, if you have other small pets in the household, or if you don’t have enough time to exercise and engage in activities with your puppy.

What to expect from a terrier as a pet?

In short, terrier-type dogs are known for the following characteristics:

Intelligent, feisty, energetic, independent, and loyal personality.
High energy levels need to be channeled through exercise and stimulation.

High requirements for socialization, training, and maintenance.
Aggressive instinct towards small animals, and even towards other dogs.
The tendency towards dominant and protective behavior in case of not receiving adequate socialization and training.

Which terrier is the calmest?

Based on the fact that terriers are not characterized as especially calm or relaxed dogs, it is said that some breeds tend to be calmer than others, as long as they are given the necessary training and level of exercise.

The terrier dog breeds that seem to be calmer are:

Bullterrier

Irish terrier
Scottish terrier (Scottish terrier)
Bedlington-terrier

Welsh Terrier (welsh terrier)
Dandie dinmont terrier

Still, none of these terriers are considered low-energy dogs.

What is the best terrier for apartment living?

If you’re a fan of terriers but don’t have a lot of space, here are the most recommended terrier breeds for apartment living:

Boston terrier
Yorkshire terrier

Australian terrier
Manchester terrier
Silky-terrier

Miniature fox terrier
Border terrier
Cairn terrier

Czech terrier