Terriers, Terriers Everywhere: A List Of The Top Ten Terrier Breeds
With so many Terriers out there which one is right for you? Terriers are feisty, high energy dogs with a mind of their own. They come in various sizes and colors. All are chock full of personality. Here is a list of the ten most popular Terriers and a brief description of each.
1. Miniature Schnauzer: They are the most popular of the three Schnauzer breeds. They are loving, family-oriented dogs. They are feisty and need early socialization and obedience training to curb their headstrong ways. Miniature Schnauzer Photos
2. West Highland White Terrier: These little darlings are very much a part of everything in the house. They are easier to handle than some of the other terriers but still need plenty of exercise to burn their energy reserves. They are courageous, assertive and full of personality. They may not be suited for homes with small children since they are protective of their possessions. West Highland White Terrier Photos
3. Scottish Terrier: Scotties are a small dog with a huge personality. As puppies they are playful but as they mature they can get a stubborn streak that can be hard to tame. They do best with adults and older children. Early socialization and training are a must. Scottish Terrier Photos
4. Cairn Terrier: These adorable little dogs are much more than they seem. They are mischievous little ones who love to play. Obedience training is a must to curb any destructive tendencies and excessive barking. You should never leave one unattended in an unfenced yard due to their nature to protect their territory. Cairn Terrier Photos
5. Airedale Terrier: Known as the King of Terriers. These dogs are courageous and loyal. They need to feel loved and respected. They require training starting at an early age. They love children but may be too rough on the smaller ones. They need lots of exercise and are not recommended for apartments. They can be trained to be anything from a guard dog to a seeing-eye dog. Airedale Terrier Photos
6. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Wheatens are playful and happy dogs. They may be too playful for small children. They do not tolerate the heat well so should live indoors. They do okay as apartment dogs. They do not bark excessively as some other terriers do. They will not tolerate cats. They bond very strongly with their family. They have the puppy personality throughout their life. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Photos
7. Bull Terrier: Remember Spuds MacKenzie? He is probably the best known of this breed. They are fun and funny dogs. They are very loyal and become very attached to their people. They are powerful dogs with a zest for life. Since they are so powerful they may not be suited for a home with small children. They need lots of activities to burn their excess energy. Bull Terrier Photos
8. American Staffordshire Terrier: A cousin to the American Pit Bull Terrier. The Staff is larger boned with a more massive head and heavier than the American Pit Bull Terrier. This dog is very family oriented. They are strong, stocky, muscular and protective of their people. They must have a strong leader/owner. Early socialization is a must to curb any aggression towards other dogs. They are good with children and adults alike. American Staffordshire Terrier Photos
9. Parson Russell Terrier: Known in the United States as The Jack Russell Terrier. This breed is probably the best known to everyone. They have been popularized in the TV show Frasier and the movies The Mask and Son of the Mask. They are a small, compact dog that is full of life, love and loyalty. They are extremely intelligent but can be willful and determined in their actions. They were bred for hunting vermin. So they have natural instincts which may not suit all people. With high intelligence and energy they need exercise and activities to keep them happy. Early socialization is a must. Jack Russell Terrier Photos
10. Wire Fox Terrier: They are a very energetic terrier. They love to play with children but have been known to bite. Very devoted to their family they can be jealous and possessive. They can be destructive if not given enough mental stimulation and exercise. Wire Fox Terrier Photos
There are numerous breeds of terriers in addition to these listed here. Whichever breed you choose you are sure to get a dog that is full of energy and enthusiasm for life.
