Terriers are a group of dogs originally bred for going to ground and hunting. Most Terriers have feisty boisterous temperaments. They are energetic and playful, quick thinking and tend to be rather mischievous. Many Terriers are scrappy with other dogs, others are dangerous and untrustworthy around small animals. The majority of the Terrier breeds are best for those with experience, as a solid pack leader is important to control their exuberant strong willed nature.

 Boston Terrier

All the Terrier breeds require a fair amount of exercise to keep them healthy and well balanced. Even those who fall in to the toy dog group, such as the Toy Fox Terrier, Toy Manchester Terrier and the Silky Terrier, are more active than the average dog their size.

Terrier breeds range in size from just a couple of pounds such as theYorkshire terrier to the Airedale Terrier who weighs around 70 pounds. Most Terriers either have a wiry coat or are smooth coated. Several of the breeds come in both coat types such as the Fox Terrier or the Jack Russell Terrier. The wirehaired variety takes special grooming and coat care.

Most Terrier breeds originated from either Ireland or the British Isles. Developed to hunt and kill rats, foxes, rabbits and badgers, they hunt on both land and underground. They were made to "go to ground", which means they follow their prey down their tunnel to fight them in their own den. The Airedale Terrier and the Kerry Blue Terrier also hunted otters and river rats. In the 1700s, some terrier breeds were crossed with hounds to enhance their on land hunting instincts. The word “Terrier” comes from the Latin word “terra” which means “earth”.

  Airedale Terrier

Due to the Terrier’s tenacity, they have been much exploited and misused by man over the years. Once, they were put in pits of rats to compete on how quickly they could dispatch them. This cruel so-called sport was followed by pitting two dogs against each other. Breeds like the English Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Boston Terrier and more recently the American Pit Bull Terrier were developed for dog fighting. Though this cruelty is illegal in most countries today, it sadly still thrives underground and thousands of dogs fight and die for the sick enjoyment of humans each year.

Today most Terriers have the honoured place of beloved companion dog and family pet, a place they have well earned. As a whole, they are devoted and affectionate and make good home guardians and excellent friends. They are an energetic, tenacious, fearless group of dogs who fits well into a family environment. However, due to their quick fiery temperament, most are best for families with older children. An excellent group of dogs but one, that no matter the size can be quite the handful.

 Jack Russell Terrier