14 Most Popular Terrier Dog Breeds: What Makes Them Unique?

The Airedale is large, especially when compared to the rest of the types in this list. Originating in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire, they were bred to catch otters and rats. It’s no surprise that they’re known as the “King of Terriers” as Airedales are intelligent, outgoing, and confident. Since they’re full of energy, it’s important to give them a lot of regular exercises.

Originally used to bait bulls, this helpful animal later became farm and nanny dogs because of their gentle demeanor. The breed is loving and eager, thus doesn’t perform well as a guard. Training these puppies will be easy because they’re smart and learn tricks quickly. They cannot tolerate cold temperatures well, so they’re best kept as indoor pets.

Although they were bred to kill rats and help hunters, the Bedlingtons of today are companions and show ring stars. These pups love to play and crave attention. Because of their strong sense of intuition, they make great watchdogs. They’re fine in big homes and apartments alike, as long as they have a chance to run around.

The Borders of yesterday were good at driving foxes out of their hiding spots. They’re tiny, scruffy dogs that love hunting and digging and make great escape artists. You’ll find that they’re smart, loyal, fearless, loving, and stubborn at times. Borders are active and need plenty of exercise, so they need families who can offer that daily.

Also known as the “American Gentleman,” Bostons lived as fighting dogs before. Today, they’re family pets that are lively, smart, and gentle. They might have a stubborn streak, so consistent training is a must. Bostons make good apartment pups and are happy even without a yard to play in. Always keep your doggy indoors because they cannot handle extreme temperatures well.

Cairns came about on the Isle of Skye in Scotland and used to help farmers solve their rat problems. You’ll find that although they’re great watchdogs, they are also friendly and cheerful. The Cairn Terrier is a little four-legged friend that needs daily walks and a session or two of play. They’ll chase after small animals, so keep them on a leash during walks.

Bred to hunt foxes 200 years ago in England, the Jack Russells are lively and independent. They’re charming, loving, and clever but are challenging to train at times. The species is happy with a fenced area to dig or run around in and is perfect for indoor living. Because they love climbing, it’s important to build proper fences to avoid runaways.

Miniature Schnauzers were bred as ratters and make great family pets today. They have long beards and bushy eyebrows and can be quite a handful. You’ll find that they have a big personality and love attention. These canines enjoy big spaces to run in and make you laugh any chance they get. Make sure they get plenty of exercise!

In the early days, Norfolks were farm dogs and hunters. They originate from Norfolk in England and are easy to care for. Owing to their small sizes, they’re great for apartments but might bark some if bored. These animals don’t fear much and are hard workers. They’re perky, outgoing, and need a good walk or play session every day.

Legend says this breed got its name from President Theodore Roosevelt after his pup rid rats from the White House. Although they’re small, these ideal farm dogs are sturdy. Rat Terriers can run really fast, so keep their leashes on when enjoying walks. You’ll find that they’re intelligent, careful, stubborn animals that love to pull disappearing acts.

Believed to be one of the oldest breeds in Scotland, the Scottie is short-legged. They have a compact and rough build that suits their serious and steady character. This intelligent pet has a strong opinion and is an excellent watchdog that’s active and doesn’t like to be bored. They don’t run much but love going for walks.

The Staffordshire, or Staffy for short, used to be fighting ring animals in the 19th century. Today, they are treasured as nanny dogs. Although they look imposing with their strong, muscular bodies, they’re gentle and patient with children. They’re full of courage and intelligence. You’ll find that they fit any type of home as long as they get enough exercise.

Westies can be traced back to the 17th century and were initially bred for hunting and ratting. The breed is sturdy with a deep chest and has a slightly rectangular shape. Since Westies are fun-loving, bold, confident, and smart, they’re lovely family pets. They’re a favorite of many because they’re very easy to please, whether in the country or city.

Huddersfield Ben was a famous show dog in the 1800s and is known as the father of Yorkies. Yorkshires are small but adventurous, and while some are cuddly, others are mischievous. The breed is suitable for indoor living but needs a walk or a game of catch every day. Otherwise, they might bark and annoy the neighbors.