Types of Terriers

There are several types of terriers. Some common types include the Jack Russell terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, bull terrier, Boston terrier, and Yorkshire terrier. Though different types of terriers have their own unique characteristics, terriers share some common traits.

Terriers tend to have a lot of energy and are feisty and stubborn. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin and to guard homes and barns. Dogs in the terrier group range in size from small dogs to larger dogs that can weigh over 70 pounds. Terriers make good pets to those who have the time and energy needed to care for them.

Bull terriers have a muscular body and oval-shaped head. They are described as being loyal, energetic, playful, and clownish. They get along with adults and children alike, but if they do not receive enough exercise, these dogs may be too energetic for young children.

These dogs need a lot of affection and exercise. They do not do well being left alone for eight or more hours at a time. Bull terriers can be aggressive with other dogs, and it is not recommended for these terriers to reside with noncanine pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs.

Like the bull terrier, this type of terrier has a muscular body. American Staffordshire terriers have a broad head and dark, round eyes that are set far apart. The breed comes in many colors and patterns. American Staffordshire terriers are easily trainable. They like both physical and mental challenges.

These dogs are people-oriented and thrive on exercising with their humans. They enjoy sports, such as dock diving and agility. These dogs get along well with both children and adults and make good family companions. They are good guard dogs and will fight to protect their owners and their possessions.

Boston terriers are small, compact dogs who weigh less than 25 pounds. These dogs have a square head, large and round eyes, and a tuxedo coat. The amount of exercise a Boston terrier needs will vary from dog to dog. Some will be happy with a walk or two a day, while others will need long play sessions.

Boston terriers are people-oriented dogs. They enjoy exercising with their humans. They also like dog sports, such as agility and flyball. These dogs are intelligent and need mental stimulation. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, these dogs may become high strung and develop unwanted behaviors. They are eager to learn and easily trainable. Boston terriers get along well with children and tend to do well with other noncanine pets in the household.

Jack Russells are one of the most common terrier types. This breed has a compact and rectangular body, almond-shaped eyes, and a coat that's mostly white with black, tan, or black and tan markings. Jack Russells have a lot of energy and require a lot of physical exercise and interaction with their humans.

Jack Russells were originally bred for foxhunting. These dogs are intelligent and learn quickly. However, training can be somewhat challenging because these dogs bore easily. Training sessions must be kept entertaining to prevent boredom. Jack Russells who aren't kept busy enough may begin to engage in destructive behavior. Games and puzzles are good activities to help keep their mind busy.

Yorkshire terriers are toy dogs weighing no more than 7 pounds. They have a floor-length, silky coat and medium-size, dark eyes. Most Yorkshire terriers will be satisfied with a couple of short walks each day; they are not as high energy as some of the other types of terriers.

Yorkies are intelligent, eager to please, and loyal. While these dogs tend to be affectionate with their family, they may be wary of strangers and become aggressive with strange dogs. These dogs can also become aggressive with small animals, so keeping a Yorkie in a home with other noncanine pets may not be advisable. This breed makes a good family dog for families with older children. Yorkies are easy to train but may be difficult to housebreak.