You have always heard the use of the word terrier as it relates to certain dog breeds. But have you ever wondered what makes a dog be classified as a terrier breed dog? Well, if you have ever been curious to know you are at the right place. This breed of dog was mostly bred or developed in Ireland and Great Britain. They were developed of of one specific need; that was to rid farm of vermin, rats, foxes, rabbits etc.  Terriers were developed as small dog breeds because they wanted a dog which could actually burro their way underground and snuff out these vermin.  The word Terrier doesn't mean terrible, but originates from from the French word  terre, derived from the Latin word for earth, terra. Terrier is also the modern French for "burrow" So you could say that these dogs are Burrow dogs.

Terrier Dog Common Characteristics
Most terrier dog breeds are fairly small, they are energetic and somewhat feisty breed of dogs.  They make great hunting dogs as they were bred to catch rabbits, badgers, foxes, rats and other so called vermin.  Most of these terrier dog breeds come in short leg or long leg category and have wiry coats which requires stripping which allows the dog to keep a characteristic terrier appearance.  These dogs are not for the slow and relaxing type owner as they are quite energetic and extremely lively and of course intelligent.

Terrier Dog Group Classification

• Toy Terriers:Sounds like something your kids would want right? These terriers are bred from larger terriers and are mostly used for companion dogs. But rest assure that they still maintain their main terrier characteristics.
• Hunting Terriers:Well, as the names suggest, are still used for hunting. They are used to hunt and catch quarries such as foxes. They are also used to bolt the quarry.

The Border Terrier
This snazzy little dog  is a rough-coated breed of dog of the terrier group. But don't underestimate this pint sized canine cuddler.  The Border Terrier had a very big role which it enjoyed doing, and that was to hunt foxes and other small creatures.  Hunting is the specialty about the border terrier. When it comes on to attentiveness and being alert you can count on the Border Terrier Dog. You have got to have the energy of Zeus to won this agile little dog. The Border Terrier makes a good home family pet especially if you have kids who will engage in non stop playing.  The Border Terrier could be considered easy to train as it is quite a mild mannered canine and loves to please it's owner. Despite its pint sized, it still will alert you of anything out of the norm with its barking. But don't expect this pooch to attack a predator anytime soon.

Breed Specifications
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Life span: 12 – 15 years
Temperament: Even Tempered, Alert, Obedient, Fearless, Intelligent, Affectionate
Colors: Blue & Tan, Grizzle & Tan, Red, Wheaten
Weight: Male: 5.9–7.1 kg, Female: 5.1–6.4 kg
Height: Male: 33–40 cm, Female: 28–36 cm

Cairn Terrier is one of the oldest of the terrier breeds, originating in the Scottish Highlands and recognized as one of Scotland's earliest working dogs.  This dog is a farmers joy as many farmers used them to catch and chase vermin off their property. The Cairn is a brave dog and is backed by its witty intelligence.  The Cairn makes a good family dog also as it exhibits natural loving tendencies. Nice dog to have around kids.

Dog Breed Info:
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Life span: 12 – 15 years
Temperament: Always happy, Fearless, Hardy, Active, Intelligent, Assertive
Weight: Male: 6–8 kg, Female: 6–8 kg
Colors: Black, Red, Grey, Brindle, Cream, Wheaten
Height: Male: 25–33 cm, Female: 23–30 cm

This small dog is not only playful and lively, but quite elegant and intelligent. The Boston Terrier is a breed of dog originating in the United States. This "American Gentleman" was accepted in 1893 by the American Kennel Club as a non-sporting breed. The dog conveys an impression of determination, strength and activity, with style of a high order; carriage easy and graceful.

Life span: 13 – 15 years
Height: 38 – 43 cm (At the withers)
Mass: 4.5 – 11 kg
Temperament: Lively, Friendly, Intelligent
Colors: Brown & White, Brindle & White, Seal & White, Black & White

This cute little boastful dog is known as the Scottish terrier.  Talk about a dog that simply loves his praises and you have the Scottish terrier. This dog is  very intelligent  and quite hilarious. The Scottish terrier has very short legs so don't expect him throw the stick a hundred yards and tell the animal to fetch and think he will be back anytime soon. Put aside the early morning jogging and accept the simple scrolling through the park and you ad your Scottish terrier make up a pretty good team.  The Scottish terrier is a rodent warrior and if you do have them, well the terrier is one to get rid of them fast. The Scottish terrier will simply make a great dog for many pet owners.
 
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Life span: 12 – 15 years
Temperament: Playful, Feisty, Alert, Self-assured, Quick, Independent
Colors: Black, Brindle, Wheaten
Weight: Male: 8.5–10 kg, Female: 8–9.9 kg
Height: Male: 25–28 cm, Female: 25–28 cm

 If you are talking about a bundle of cute you are talking about the Norfolk Terrier. It is a British dog breed. This small dog shows little fear yet is still the most affectionate and sweetest terrier any dog owner could have. It is quite a playful and lively dog and simply loves to be on the go. If you like dogs that are cute, fearless, active, playful and loves his/her owner. Then the Norfolk Terrier is  a great pick.

Hypoallergenic: Yes
Life span: 12 – 15 years
Mass: 5 – 5.4 kg (Adult)
Temperament: Spirited, Companionable, Lovable, Self-confidence, Fearless, Happy
Colors: Red, Grizzle, Black & Tan, Wheaten

The Sealyham Terrier is a  Welsh breed of small to medium-sized terrier that originated in Wales. It was bred typically as a working dog. The Sealyham Terrier dog breed was mostly used to hunt small animals such as foxes, badgers, rats and otters. The Sealyham terrier hunting days today are over and are normally acquired as companion and show dogs.   This little dog is packed with punches and carries a no nonsense temperament. Yet still is quite loving and protective.

Hypoallergenic: Yes
Life span: 12 – 14 years
Temperament: Even Tempered, Alert, Friendly, Calm, Fearless
Mass: Male: 9 kg (Adult), Female: 8 kg (Adult)
Colors: Brown & White, Blue & White, Lemon & White, Badger & White, White

The Airedale terrier is considered one of the the largest of all terrier dogs. Many breeders call the Airedale the King of terriers  because of his size and skills. This breed originated in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire.  This terrier breed was mostly used to catch rodents and otters. During world war 1. The Airedale terrier was put to work and many was pleased with the dogs dexterity and intelligence.  The Airedale also makes a wonderful family pet with its playfulness and loyalty. The Airedale Terrier, also called Bingley Terrier and Waterside Terrier.

Hypoallergenic: Yes
Life span: 10 – 12 years
Color: Black & Tan
Temperament: Outgoing, Alert, Friendly, Confident, Courageous, Intelligent
Height: Female: 56–59 cm, Male: 58–61 cm
Weight: Female: 18–20 kg, Male: 23–29 kg

This beauty is packed with melanin. The Russian black terrier dog exercises above terrier intelligence. But what makes this dog breed unique is the fact that many may not consider this breed as part of the terrier family. The Russian Black is the newest terrier dog breed on the block. It is quite a large dog and is used as a guard and working dogs. This dog is loved in Russia as it also doubles up as the families playful pet dog. The Russian black terrier is not that appreciative around other dogs and strangers, but very protective of it's owner and family. This Beautiful Terrier was created in USSR in Red Star Kennel during the late 1940s and the early 1950s for use as military/working dogs.

Life span: 10 – 11 years
Temperament: Lively, Energetic, Confident, Stable, Brave, Hardy
Weight: Female: 36–59 kg, Male: 45–68 kg
Height: Female: 64–70 cm, Male: 66–72 cm

No, not Lucifer, Lucas Terrier.
If you don't agree that this dog is absolutely adorable I will be coming to your home to take your dogs away. This ball of cuteness originated in England in the 1940's.  This terrier makes a great companion all round as it is friendly to people and to other dogs. There is no shorts in having this dog as the family pet as it works well with children. The Lucas terrier is a born please  but yet a bit more on the silent side. But be careful of all those traps he may set in the back yard because the Lucas terrier just loves digging holes.

 cute little ball of heaven , The West Highland White Terrier originated from Scotland. This playful pooch is quite an active little fellow and probably believes he is Gods gift to mankind. His self confidence is higher than the rainbow. The West Highland Terrier can be quite an entertainer for the family. This terrier is not only a show dog, but is good at catching small rodents as well. So if you are looking for  a dog as white as snow, playful and confident, the west highland my be a good choice for you.

Hypoallergenic: Yes
Life span: 12 – 16 years
Color: White
Temperament: Alert, Friendly, Courageous, Hardy, Active, Independent
Weight: Female: 6–7 kg, Male: 7–10 kg
Height: Female: 23–28 cm, Male: 25–30 cm

Did someone just say Samba? It party time with this Brazilian monarch. This terrier breed originated in Brazil. This Brazilian terrier is no couch potato, it is one of the more frisky, intelligent and very alert terrier dogs.  If you are frisky your self and loves to hang ten with your Dog. The Brazilian terrier dog is just for you. This dog is a powerhouse of playfulness and will play with his/her owner until its probably hungry. The Brazilian terrier also loves to bark and will quickly warn you of anything unusual. They are great ratters, makes great tracking dogs. 

Temperament: Restless, Alert, Gentle, Friendly, Keen, Active
Colors: Tri-color, Blue & White, Black & White
Height: Male: 35–40 cm, Female: 33–38 cm
Weight: Male: 6.5–10 kg, Female: 6.5–10 kg

The first look on this toy dog and one would wonder what were they thinking. Those big bat like ears and those bulgy eyes makes this Russian Toy stand out among the terrier family of dogs. This terrier is bred in Russia from from the Manchester terrier. One thing to not about the Russian Toy terrier is that it comes in two breeds, smooth coat and the long or hairy coat. 

Lifespan: 11 years
Height: 23 cm (Adult)

If you are looking for a bold and string terrier dog you can stop at the patterdale terrier. It is an English breed which came from the Northern terrier breeds of the early 20th Century. The Patterdale Terrier is not as yappy and playful as most terrier dogs. The patterdale would prefer to relax on the beach sipping on some nice lemonade that be out running catching balls in the sun. The patterdale is a thick headed terrier, meaning that he is very determined and even though small, packs a lot of toughness and could probably take on a dog from the mastiff group.  If you are looking for a solid terrier dog that has more bite than bark, well the Patterdale is s good look.

Height: 25 – 38 cm (Adult)
Temperament: Inquisitive, Bold, Energetic, Friendly, Confident, Intelligent
Colors: Black, Blue & Tan, Chocolate, Red, Black & Tan

Don't mess with this tiny ninja, you may just get your butt bitten! This Terrier originated in Japan.  It is said to be originated from the fox type terriers and pointers. The dog is also called the Nippon terrier. Most Japanese terriers have the distinctive color arrangement of white body and dark colored head. This dog is more on the very friendly side of the terrier temperament. It is cheerful and happy as and shows good level of intelligence.  These dogs love to chase squirrels. They are obedient and will also make great companion dogs.

Height: 20 – 33 cm (Adult, At Shoulder)
Mass: 2.3 – 4.1 kg (Adult)
Temperament: Vigilant, Lively, Cheerful, Active, Affectionate, Swift
Colors: Tri-color, Black & White

The English Toy Terrier reminds me of the Dober man dog breed. It's stance and colors are the same. But this dog is a small breed of terrier dog which originated in England. This dog cannot be intimidated that easily, It has spent the majority of its formative years in the rat pit. It has grown into a brave breed and does not exhibit nervousness that easily.  The English Toy Terrier loves to bark and finds pleasure doing so.  This dog can become bored quite easily and should be properly trained and given routine exercises to keep him occupied, else you may just loose that beautiful tomato garden you nurtured so long! One thing to consider if acquiring the English toy is its temperament towards other small animals such as cats, birds or rabbits. Remember that this dog was literally bred for ratting and spent many years in rat pits. It may see these other animals as easy preys and just may spring into attack mode. Always introduce your pets to the English terrier early and supervise all pets around the terrier when playing.

Height: 25 – 30 cm
Mass: 2.7 – 3.6 kg
Color: Black & Tan
Temperament: Cunning, Alert, Companionable, Stubborn, Intelligent, Trainable

The Cesky is a breed from a mix of Scottish Terrier and Sealyham terrier dog. They bred this dog to get an animal which was proficient enough in hunting vermin without being stuck inside the vermin's den. The Cesky is was bred in the former Czechoslovakia in 1948. The Cesky however never proved to be that great hunting dog they wanted. It is a calmer type terrier. But his calmness does not shadow his other abilities. The cesky is agile, loving and makes a great companion dog.  If you are looking for a dog to mesh in with children and other pets, the Chesky can be easily considered as it gets along well with them.  This terrier comes with a soft coat that can also be groomed  with clippers.


Life span: 12 – 15 years
Mass: 5.9 – 10 kg
Temperament: Non-aggressive, Reserved, Calm, Cheerful, Quiet, Trainable
Height: Male: 29 cm (At the withers), Female: 27 cm (At the withers) 

Look, I can't see! You would think that is what this walking rug is saying. The Skye terrier originated in Great Britain, on the island of Skye.  This terrier was bred to hunt vermin that plagued farms. You would wonder if this walking fur could see through those fur to hunt anything at all.  But the Skye terrier managed his role quite well and vanquished farm vermin while still holding that classical and cute look.  The Skye Terrier is quite brave despite it's pint size. He is a friendly and devoted dog which is fancied by the rich and royal.

Hypoallergenic: No
Temperament: Good-tempered, Loyal, Friendly, Gay, Fearless, Intelligent
Weight: Male: 16–18 kg, Female: 12–14 kg
Height: Male: 24–25 cm, Female: 20–24 cm 

 The English white terrier is an extinct breed of dog. The English White terrier is the failed show ring name of a pricked-ear version of the white fox-working terriers that have existed in the U.K. since the late 18th Century.

You wont find many homes today with the Belgrade terrier dog. The body is similar to that of a Basset Hound or Dachshund. It has long hair and dropped ears.  This is a breed from the former Yugoslavia. It may have been selectively bred for a long time due to that former country's long history of dog breeding. It is thought that the Belgrade Terrier descends from the Small Greek Domestic Dog.

The Blue Paul Terrier is an extinct dog breed. It is widely believed that this breed of dog was brought to Scotland by John Paul Jones who was a sailor.  The blue Paul terrier was no pushover terrier, It was one of the most brutal fighting dogs, This dog may have died out due to the enormous dog fighting that existed during the 1800's.  The Blue Paul Terrier was heavily cross bred with the American Pit Bull. The breed began to dwindle to non existence in the 1900.

Mass: 15 kg (Adult)
Rank: Breed
Origin: Scotland, England 

Talk about a dog with a fancy hair piece. This terrier has a very unique appearance as it sports nice hair top.  Someone must have had the hots for fictional characters as this dog was named after one. The dog has a long body and short legs. You cant help but having the feeling to grab  comb and give this dog a cane row.

Life span: 12 – 15 years
Mass: 8.2 – 11 kg (Adult)
Height: 20 – 28 cm (Adult, At the withers)
Temperament: Lively, Fun-loving, Companionable, Determined, Affectionate, Independent 

The German hunt terrier also called The Jagd terrier is a type of working terrier which originated in Germany. This dog was used for quarry hunting.  This dog is not only a master at quarry hunting, it backs that with intelligence also. The Dog makes a great companion dog as it is people eccentric. This speedy little dog is full of life and quite active. The Jagd terrier makes a great watch dog as it is also quite aware and alert.  This dog is a born hunter as it exhibits little to no fear. This dog does require a owner who is acertive and strong.

Color: Black & Tan
Temperament: Reliable, Strong Willed, Adaptable, Courageous, Intelligent, Sociable
Height: Male: 33–40 cm, Female: 33–40 cm
Weight: Male: 9–10 kg, Female: 7.5–8.5 kg