Terrier Dog Breeds

The Terrier Group includes small but lively terrier breeds that were developed (mainly in Great Britain) to hunt small burrowing animals such as badgers, foxes, otters, rabbits and rats. The terrier often had to follow the prey underground and therefore, except Airedale and Bull Terriers, most terriers are small and stocky with short legs. These are feisty and energetic dogs that have little tolerance for other animals including other dogs. Of course these small dog breeds have been domesticated and make good pets but they are still very active and require firm handling. Many breeds like the Airedale, Bull, Fox and the Parson (Jack Russell Terrier) do best with experienced owners. Top 10 most popular terrier breeds in the US according to the American Kennel Club registers 2005 are discussed below and their registration rank is included in brackets. Interestingly, the top six most popular terriers are low-shedding dogs are said to be hypoallergenic when properly prepared races.

1. Miniature Schnauzer

Minis (# 10) are lively, pleasant and playful with expressive personalities. These small faithful and devoted dogs want to be totally involved in all family activities and love to go for walks. Most Minis are good with children but are too small to be the mascot of a small child. They are usually along well with other family pets although they are terriers and can be feisty toward other dogs. The formation of early socialization and obedience will help control excessive barking and a reluctance to walk on a leash. This breed can be taught fairly easily and can even excel at advanced obedience competitions.

2. West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White (No. 32) is gay, bold, assertive, courageous, inquisitive and has lots of personality. This little white dog must participate in everything that happens in the house. The Westie is easier to handle and friendlier than many other terriers but still needs his walks and play sessions a day. Westies will try and dominate dogs of the same sex but otherwise get along better with other dogs and cats than most terriers. The Westie still has its hunting prey drive and should not be let off leash except in a fenced enclosed area. The Westie is very possessive of his toys and food and does not like to be handled by young children.

3. Scottish Terrier

Scottish (# 40) is a small breed of dog with a gay and distinctive appearance. The Scot is brave, alert, proud, confident, loyal and dignified. While friendly and playful as puppies, the mature Scottish Terrier can be stubborn at times. Therefore, it is important to start socializing and obedience training http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/articles/training-your-puppy.html> Scottish when he is a puppy and continue through adolescence. Scotties love to play, so make sure you add play and rewards to your training. The Scottish Terrier does best with older children.

4. Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier (# 41) is one of the smaller working terrier dog breeds. These terriers are bold, spirited and inquisitive but are also somewhat independent-minded. The Cairn is intelligent, affectionate and eager to please his master. This breed is easily trained and likes to do tricks although they may be the tricks that he - not - want to do. Cairns do well with older children and love to play games. These Terriers demand lots of attention but will provide hours of entertainment in return.

5. Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier middle (# 52) are larger than most Terriers and has an even temperament and sweet disposition, although some Airedales can get into fights with other dogs. This terrier is dignified, patient, loyal and intelligent and makes a great companion dog that loves to play with children. The Airedale should be supervised with young children because it can be too noisy for them. Airedales can be trained to a high level as something of a guardian or custodian of a dog guide. Airedale puppies are playful and exuberant and obedience training should be started early and re-applied to adulthood by a knowledgeable owner.