The Complete Guide To Terrier Breeds

Terrier breeds are one of the toughest dog breeds on the planet.

They were initially bred to find, chase and kill rodents, vermin and pests. Many of which live underground, such as foxes and badgers. It takes a tenacious type of dog to go into a fox or badger den, otherwise known as “going to ground”, with the intention to kill.

While most terriers don’t carry out their pest control duties anymore, they still have that temperament bred into them, making them highly challenging to train due to their independent nature.

Don’t let that put you off; terriers make fantastic family pets, and although they are stubborn, they are intelligent, bold, loyal and loving to their owners.

Terrier breeds come in various sizes, shapes, colours and forms. So if you’re browsing for a suitable terrier for you, here is the most comprehensive A to Z list available.

Airedale Terriers

Due to the sheer size of the Airedale Terrier, they often get referred to as the “King of Terriers”. They are known for their athletic and hunting capabilities and were initially bred near the Aire River in Yorkshire, the United Kingdom, to hunt and catch otters, ducks and rats. To this day, they are still used by hunters, the police and make a fantastic family pet.

Airedale’s tenacity and eagerness to please saw them make an appearance in WW1. Soldiers used them to carry food and messages, scout for enemies and kill rats.

The Airedale is a hardworking, energetic and independent dog that works exceptionally well when it has a job to do, no matter how small.

Rating: ★★★★★
Height: 18-23 inches
Weight: 50-70 lbs
Life span: 10-12 years

American Hairless Terriers

The American Hairless Terrier is the only hairless breed native to the USA, and they often get referred to as Hairless Rat Terriers. The breed was developed by accident in 1972 when a female Hairless Rat Terrier was produced and bred explicitly to keep the hairless traits. Due to the thin breeding pool, some American Hairless Terriers are born with a light coat.

They are highly similar to their ancestors, the ‘Rat Terriers‘ in all aspects apart from the obvious one – they have no fur!

They are clever, energetic and enjoy chasing small rodents with their strong prey drive. However, American Hairless Terriers are not suitable for hunting due to their hairless unprotected bodies.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 12-16 inches
Weight: 10-16 lbs
Life span: 14-16 years

American Pitbull Terriers

The American Pitbull Terrier is a very muscular, stocky and agile dog that is extremely strong for its size. They often get confused for the American Staffordshire Terrier and have a bad reputation due to their history of fighting bulls and bears. Don’t let that reputation fool you; Pitbull Terriers are sweet, gentle dogs that are far from dangerous.

The Pitbull Terrier originated in England, Scotland and Ireland during the 19th century before making its way over the US. They have smooth and short fur, with a brick-like head often defined across a muscley neck.

Pitbull Terriers possess the same characteristics as terriers; in other words, they are as stubborn as hell. However, they excel more than other terriers with children and make fantastic family pets due to their human friendliness.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 18-21 inches
Weight: 35-60 lbs
Life span: 8-14 years

American Staffordshire Terriers

You can trace the American Staffordshire Terriers roots back to similar dogs such as Bulldogs and Pitbulls. Over the years, they have been used for various causes, such as bull-baiting, hunting and bloodsports. Due to this history, they can be aggressive towards other animals and dogs. 

However, they are incredibly affectionate with their human owners and can have extremely warm hearts with dogs when appropriately socialised. For that reason, Staffordshire Terriers are very popular in the UK and USA.

Their single coat comes in various colours, but the AKC does consider it a fault if more than 80% of the coat is white.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 17-19 inches
Weight: 60-80 lbs
Life span: 12-14 years

Australian Terriers

The Australian terrier was originally bred to control vermin with early UK settlers. They are a combination of many different terriers, such as the Yorkshire Terrier, Irish Terrier and the Manchester Terrier, to name a few. The breed was first used for hunting rodents and snakes, tending to livestock and alerting to the presence of strangers.

Australian Terriers are one of the smallest terrier breeds in this complete A-Z Terrier Guide. They are long in proportion to their height and possess a medium length harsh double coat which is shorter on the muzzle. Their tail is usually docked for working purposes, but these days you’ll often find undocked Australian Terriers living happy lives as pets.

Their independent, tenacious, hardworking personalities form strong bonds with their owner. They are one of the most obedient terriers on this list, so if you’re looking for a terrier who will do as it’s told, consider the Australian terrier.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 12-16 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Bedlington Terriers

The Bedlington Terriers was initially bred from the North East mining town of Bedlington, Northumberland. The miners at the time used them for hunting vermin. Due to this, they are tenacious hunters, so don’t be surprised when they bring back a bird, rabbit or rat from your garden.

One of the most unique looking terriers on our list, the Bedlington is brave, intelligent, courageous, and very high energy. Most are light colours, such as sandy and blue, but they often have a dark coat when they are born. 

Surprisingly Bedlingtons are as close to 100% hypoallergenic as they come. They do not shed and have a very minimal doggy odour. So if you’re looking for a terrier that won’t trigger your allergies, the Bedlington should be your choice.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 15-18 inches
Weight: 17-23 lbs
Life span: 13-15 years

Biewer Terriers

The Biewer Terrier is closely related to the Yorkshire Terrier, and although they are highly similar, they are often recognised as purebred dogs. Other than the colour, these dogs are the same size as Yorkies.

Even though the Biewer Terrier is small and cute, they are still a terrier, making them energetic, stubborn, devoted, and brave. If you have time for daily works, you’ll love the Biewer Terrier.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 7-11 inches
Weight: 4-8 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Black Russian Terriers

The Black Russian Terrier is a powerful and effective working breed developed after World War Two. The Russian military crossed the Giant Schnauzer with a Rottweiler before further refining the species using Airdale Terriers and various other breeds. The dog has since been bred to be more civilised and can fit into a family lifestyle with a solid and experienced handler.

Black Russian Terriers are not easy dogs to work with, and you shouldn’t purchase a Black Russian if you expect it to sit quietly in your home all day long. However, they are fantastic dogs for the right owner who understand socialisation.

Their guarding instincts make them one of the most protective terriers available. So don’t be surprised if they jump into action if someone breaks into your home.

Rating: ★★★★★
Height: 25-28 inches
Weight: 80-150 lbs
Life span: 10-12 years

Boglen Terriers

Boglen Terriers are mixed breed dogs formed from the Boston Terrier and the Beagle in North America in the late 1990s. Boglens are known as a designer breed due to their adorable look and small size. 

Boglens are highly energetic, playful, sweet and funny. However, the Beagle and terrier combination can be stubborn if you’re inconsistent with your training.

If you’re an active walker and can give the Boglen lots of attention, you’ll have bags of fun with this outgoing, excellent suited family dog.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 12-17 inches
Weight: 10-35 lbs
Life span: 10-15 years

Border Terriers

The Border Terriers originated on the border of England and Scotland. They were bred to assist in fox hunts, driving foxes out from their dens onto land for hounds to chase.

Border Terriers have a long, narrow, and flexible body; their tail is moderately short, and their expression makes them look fearless. In addition, these dogs have short, dense undercoats covered with a wiry topcoat.

Borders are “hard as nails” when working, but don’t be fooled; they are affectionate, loving, and make fantastic family pets. Unfortunately, due to their history, they love to dig, so expect holes to appear in your garden if you don’t keep an eye on them.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 10-11 inches
Weight: 11-15 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Boston Terriers

Surprisingly the Boston Terrier wasn’t bred in Boston and was actually produced in Liverpool in the 1870s before being shipped to America. They were originally bred as small fighting dogs for the working class of Boston in the 19th century. Thankfully, dogfighting is now illegal, and Bostons are now much-loved family companions.

Boston Terriers are compact, handsome little terriers. They have a short upper jaw to give them a pushed-in face, similar to French Bulldogs. Furthermore, they often get referred to as “The American Gentleman” due to their coats’ distinct pattern, which looks like someone wearing a tuxedo.

If you’re considering buying a Boston Terrier, you’ll have lots of fun with these intelligent, affectionate and loveable creatures. They are great with children but can play rough if they’re allowed.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 15-17 inches
Weight: 15-25 lbs
Life span: 13-15 years

Brazilian Terriers

The Brazillian Terrier has two theories about where they came from. The first states the Brazillian Terrier evolved from Fox Terriers and Jack Russell Terriers from English merchant ships in the 1800s. The second theory is that they are a direct ancestor from Spanish terrier breeds. The Brazillian Terrier is still used for hunting vermin, and some even get used as all-purpose farm dogs for activities such as herding.

Overall, they look great with their bright and alert expression and their colourful fur, which comes in three colours. The Brazillian Terrier is similar to the Jack Russel Terrier, but they are nowhere near as hyperactive. They require a firm but a strong owner who understands terrier breeds to get the best out of them.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 15-22 lbs
Life span: 12-14 years

Bull Terriers

The Bull Terrier was originally developed in the 19th century as a fighting dog. However, these days they are used as a fashionable companion for families. It is thought that the breed was developed using the Bulldog, English White Terrier (now extinct) and the Dalmation. 

The breed quickly gained popularity due to its affectionate, powerful and trainable nature. But you should remember that they are still a terrier at heart, so they can be intolerant to other dogs and animals.

Overall, the Bull Terrier is one of the best terriers on our list as a family pet. They are mentally well balanced, fun, funny, loving, and have very low grooming needs.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 21-22 inches
Weight: 50-70 lbs
Life span: 12-13 years

Cairn Terriers

The Cairn Terrier is one of the oldest living terriers originating in the Scottish Highlands. They were developed over 200 years ago, but it wasn’t until 1912 the Cairn Terrier was designated and recognised as a breed standard. 

Although they look cute, don’t underestimate their origin. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin, so don’t be shocked if your Cairn takes off after some prey.

Cairn Terriers are intelligent, loyal and highly active dogs. They make fantastic pets if they are walked daily, but they are prone to behaviour problems if left housebound. They are known for barking and will bark to get your attention, to alert you of something or if they are bored.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 10-14 lbs
Life span: 14-16 years

Cesky Terriers

Also known as the Czech Terrier, the Cesky Terrier originated from the Czech Republic. They are a relatively new breed formed by František Horák in 1948 when he crossed a Sealyham Terrier with a Scottish Terrier. This cross resulted in a family loving hunting dog. The Cesky Terrier first arrived in America in 1980, but it wasn’t until 2011 the breed was accepted into the Kennel Club.

The Cesky has a bushy beard, eyebrows and moustache, as well as a long head. They are small terriers with strong jaws, so don’t expect toys to last long with a Cesky. Their coat comes in various colours: tanned, grey with white and coffee. 

If you managed to get ahold of a Czech Terrier, count yourself lucky, they are scarce, and it is estimated that there are just over 500 in the US alone.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆
Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 16-22 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Nicknamed the gentleman of the terrier family, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier originated from Scotland and England’s borders. Dandies were originally bred to hunt otters and badgers, and although their origin is confused, most believe they are a cross of the Scottish and Skye terrier.

Dandies are small, low to the ground dogs with long torsos and short legs. Their silky white hair comes in two colours, mustard and pepper. Although they shed very little, they do need brushing two to three times a week to prevent dead hair.

Like all terrier breeds, they have a strong prey drive and can be territorial. They bark less than other terriers, but they will bark when they feel alerted by something or someone.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 18-24 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Fox Terriers

The Fox Terrier is an old English Terrier built for speed and agility. It comes in various breed types, such as the Smooth Fox Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier. The close relatives are only distinguishable by their head as the Smooths head is more V-shaped than the Wires.

The Smooth Fox Terrier is often used in circuses and to perform professional tricks. Considered a sporting terrier due to their hunting ability, you will need to watch it around rats and rabbits unless you plan to use them for hunting.

Being brave, bold, cheerful and devoted to their family makes them fantastic family pets. If you have an active lifestyle and children, you’ll love this dog. However, they need a firm owner who won’t be walked over.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 16-18 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Glen of Imaal Terriers

The Glen Terrier originated in the glen area of Ireland in the 1600s. Glens were used to tackle badgers and foxes, and we’re even used for dogfighting. 

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a scruffy-looking terrier with a large head in proportion to its body. Initially, workers needed Glens to be small enough to fit down a badger or fox den while having robust rear legs that could pull the small game out of the hole.

They are feisty and high spirited dogs that are less excitable than most terriers. But, don’t let that fool you; they are fearless and won’t run away from a fight with another dog, no matter the size.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 25-35 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Irish Terriers

Known for their bright red coat and matching temperament, the Irish Terriers make brilliant family pets. The Irish Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds, so there is not much information on their history. Although most terrier breeds aren’t typically fans of other dogs, we must warn that Irish Terriers especially don’t do well with other dogs.

Irish Terriers are often referred to as ‘leggy’ terriers, which means they stand tall and have long legs. They are bold, dashing and have a beautiful red coat that is very eye-catching.

With proper training, Irish Terriers can make great pets for a highly active family. A bonus is that Irish Terriers are very affectionate and enjoy human company even if they are strangers.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 16-18 inches
Weight: 18-27 lbs
Life span: 13-15 years

Jack Russell Terriers

Jack Russels were developed by John “Jack” Russel in southern England in the 19th-century primarily to hunt foxes. Jack Russel Terriers (JRT) are fearless and highly energetic, which can cause problems when brought into an inactive lifestyle.

There is a lot of confusion between the JRT and the Parson Russell Terrier due to the history of their name, but ultimately they are very similar dogs. Jack Russel Terriers have a small flexible chest to allow them to get into fox dens and come in three fur types, smooth, rough and broken.

Loving and devoted, Jack Russels enjoy life, and their nosey personality will mean nothing goes unnoticed. They love nothing more than a game of chase so if you’re considering a Jack Russel, get your ball handy. 

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 8-12 inches
Weight: 10-15 lbs
Life span: 13-16 years

Japanese Terriers

The Japanese Terrier is also known as the Nihon Teria and is a rare breed of terrier. It is one of the smalled sized terrier breeds, and unlike the majority of terrier breeds, it was not bred to hunt but instead to be a loving companion. 

The Japanese Terrier has a white body with a tanned hat and spots, which is very unique. When calm, they have ears that flop forward (which is very cute), but their ears are folded to the side if alert.

A lively, cheerful and loving dog, the Nihon Teria is a faithful lapdog who enjoys nothing more than a cuddle.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: 5-9 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Kerry Blue Terriers

The Kerry Blue Terrier is another type of ‘Irish Terrier’ and was initially bred in the mountains of Kerry in Ireland to control vermin. This gives them a solid instinct to chase pretty much anything that moves. 

They have a long head, flat skull and deep chest and a wavy coat that comes in several shades of blue. In addition, they have a bushy beard and eyebrows that give them a unique look. 

They are loyal and affectionate but are strong-willed and hot-headed. If you’re lucky enough to get your hand on one of these, count yourself lucky, Kerry’s form deep connections with their owners and will love you more than anything on earth.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 18-19 inches
Weight: 26-33 lbs
Life span: 13-15 years

Lakeland Terriers

Lakeland Terriers are among the oldest terrier breeds in our huge A-Z terrier list. Its name stems from the origin of the Lakelands in the UK, where they were bred to hunt badgers, foxes and small vermin. The Lakeland Terrier has a dense and hard double layer coat with colours like black and cinnamon.

They are brave and self-confident but stand out for their playful, friendly and curious nature. However, they are reserved with strangers and sometimes protective of their owners. If you live a highly active lifestyle, you will love Lakelands as they are highly intelligent and learn quickly.

Although not the most popular terrier on our list, the Lakelands charm and enthusiasm for life are hard to beat.

Rating: ★★★★★
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 15-17 lbs
Life span: 12-16 years

Manchester Terriers

The Manchester Terrier is an elegant looking dog that combines the speed of a coursing hound and the fearlessness of a Rat Terrier. Originally bred to hunt rats and rabbits, the UK terrier from Manchester is a loyal and loving companion for anyone they call family. They are extremely game dogs that will kill any small vermin available.

There are two types available, the toy and the standard version of the Manchester Terrier. They both have smooth and muscular bodies, but the main difference is that the Toy Manchester Terrier has naturally erect ears and is slightly smaller weighing less than 12 lbs.

Manchesters have a curious and independent personalities but want to be physically close to their human at all times. Unfortunately, this personality trait makes destructive behaviours and separation anxiety common in the breed.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 14-16 inches
Weight: 12-22 lbs
Life span: 15-17 years

Miniature Bull Terriers

The Miniature Bull Terrier is one of the most fearless terrier breeds on our list. They are a downsized version of the famous Bull Terrier and were originally used for ratting and dogfighting. They were recognised as one of the best pit fighting dogs on the planet, but thankfully today, this sport is illegal.

The Minature Bull Terrier is goofy and fun to be around, making them a perfect fit for active families. They are easy to train but require a lot of attention as they can quickly become bored. 

Have you ever heard of ‘zoomies’? Well, you’ve not seen anything until you’ve seen a Miniature Bull Terrier with it.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 10-14 inches
Weight: 20-35 lbs
Life span: 11-14 years

Norfolk Terriers

The Norfolk Terrier originated in East Anglia in England for the sole purpose to kill vermin on farms. They are close cousins to the Norwich Terriers and often get confused for the two, but they are different dogs. The difference is that the Norfolk Terrier has dropped eared and has a feistier temperament.

Norfolks are short-legged and are recognised as the smallest terrier breed. Their head is fox-like, and they have dark brown or black eyes. The coat is short, harsh, wiry and straight that is doubled coated and insulates the body from heat and cold.

Norfolk Terriers are hardworking and charming but form massive bonds with their owners, so separation anxiety is high in the breed. However, they are known to be friendly with other dogs, so if you’re looking for another member of the pack, Norfolks are an excellent choice.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 10-14 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Norwich Terriers

One of the smallest working terrier breeds, the Norwich Terrier, has existed since the late 19 century. Norwich Terriers are feisty little dogs with sharp upright ears that distinguish them from their cousins, the Norfolk Terriers.

The Norwich Terrier has a harsh, dense and wiry coat that can come in red, black, a mixture of both or fine in colour. Furthermore, due to their dynamic nature, they need daily mental and physical exercise.

Norwich’s make great family pets; remember to keep them in the house as they prefer to be around their owners. They are very good with children and dogs but be careful with small animals like rats and hamsters.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 10-14 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Parson Russell Terriers

The Parson Russell Terrier is a highly energetic dog with a fantastic personality. They are incredibly similar to the Jack Russel Terrier and were even developed from the same origin, but they have some important differences. For example, they have noticeably longer legs, a longer head and a slightly larger body.

Parson Russell Terriers were bred to work, so you’ll need to fulfil their needs if you’re planning to bring one home. They are confident, alert and similar to the Jack Russell Terrier, have a high prey drive.

Don’t let their hunting instincts put you off; they make a fantastic companion for the right person. They are much more obedient than many other terriers but please remember – no terrier is easy.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 13-14 inches
Weight: 13-17 lbs
Life span: 13-15 years

Patterdale Terriers

The Patterdale Terrier is an English terrier breed from the UK’s Lake District. They were specifically bred for their hunting abilities and were refined by Cyril Bray, who only selected the best hunting terriers. An incredibly game dog, their job was to dispatch red foxes underground, so expect a strong-willed dog when choosing a Patterdale Terrier. 

They come in three coat types, smooth, broken and rough. All are dense to touch and built to withstand the challenging weather of northern England. To this day, the Patterdale is used for hunting but due to their loyal and loving personalities, many have become devoted companions.

Highly energetic, you should live an active life if you plan to purchase a Patterdale Terrier.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 9-15 inches
Weight: 15-35 lbs
Life span: 15-17 years

Plummer Terrier

The Plummer Terrier is an active and intelligent hunting breed. Originally developed to hunt rats and vermin, they are small, fast and muscular. Their prey drive is very high, so they tend to function best in families where they can be worked.

The Plummers coat is short, lying close to their body and dense. It’s protective against harsh weather and comes in a combination of red and white. Their head is medium size, and they have a tail that is carried high.

If you’re wondering if a Plummer is right for you, ask yourself if you’re highly active and can give them a working job. If not, we would recommend looking at the many other terrier breeds on our list. 

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 12-13 inches
Weight: 10-13 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Rat Terriers

Rat Terriers are compact, friendly and elegant. They were developed between a mix of dogs and terrier breeds such as the Smooth Fox Terrier, Old English Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Whippet and a Beagle. Despite their size, Rat Terriers are very strong dogs and are very protective of their owners.

Even though they were bred to work on farms, they do fantastic as family pets. They are friendly and loyal to their family members and have a mischievous personalities. However, they are highly active, and they will find ways to amuse themselves if you don’t exercise them enough. 

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 16-19 inches
Weight: 10-25 lbs
Life span: 15-18 years

Scottish Terriers

The Scottish Terriers originated in Aberdeen and were originally bred by farmers to manage vermin. Highly independent and confident dogs, be mindful that they have enough courage to go into badger and fox dens. 

The Scotty is a sturdy breed with a short and muscular back. They have thin and erect ears with a tail that is set high. The coat has a hard, wiry outercoat and a dense undercoat that will grow to brush the ground, similar to a skirt if left uncut.  

Often described as a big dog in a little body, they do not require much attention from owners. Although they are entertaining, they can be challenging to train due to their independent nature.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 18-22 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Sealyham Terriers

The Sealyham Terriers are mellow, laid-back dogs than most terrier breeds on our list. They are even known as the couch potato of the terrier breeds. Originating in Wales, it is believed that Tucker Edwards used Fox Terriers, West Highland White Terriers, Bull Terriers and Dandie Dinmont Terriers to create the breed.

Sealyhams are one of the strongest terrier breeds for their size. They have long, broad and powerful heads. They have long top coats with soft, dense undercoats that are weather resistant. The only acceptable colour of a Sealyham is white.

Many people prefer Sealyhams as their terrier of choice as they are calm, chilled out dogs that don’t possess anywhere near as much energy as the majority of terriers. But don’t let that fool you; they still have a lot of character and are always ready to play.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 15-20 lbs
Life span: 12-14 years

Silky Terriers

The Silky Terrier is a confident and loving companion. They were developed in the late 1800s by combining the Yorkshire Terrier and Australian Terrier. Different to most terrier breeds, the Silkys were bred to be family pets.

The coat comes in straight, shiny and silky, which comes in blue and tanned. Silky Terriers have hair similar to humans, which means their grooming needs are higher than most terriers.

The Silky Terrier makes fantastic playmates for small children, but they have a lot of spirit due to their terrier personality traits. Although they were not bred to be hunters, we also recommend you don’t underestimate their prey drive.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 9-10 inches
Weight: 7-11 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Skye Terriers

The Skye Terrier was developed in the Isle of Sky in Scotland. Although farmers initially used them for hunting badgers and foxes, their sweet and loving personality has found them to grow in popularity as fashionable pets.

The Sky Terrier is twice as long as they are tall, which helps them get into vermin burrows. In addition, they have a long and powerful head and ears that are highly feathered.

A classic terrier breed, they are fearless when faced with anything new. Sky Terriers can often get away with behaviours that a big dog wouldn’t be able to, simply because of how cute they are. 

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 7-10 inches
Weight: 25-40 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Staffordshire Bull Terriers

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is often confused as the American Staffordshire Terrier, and although they are the same breed and have the same history, they are slightly different.

An American Staffordshire Terrier is much larger than the Standard Staffy, often about double. However, other than size, they are very similar in their temperament, head size and capabilities.

The Staffy is the biggest small breed of terrier, are highly loving of their family, athletic and very entertaining. If you have small children, don’t worry, a well trained Staffordshire Terrier should have no problems. 

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 24-38 lbs
Life span: 12-14 years

Taco Terriers

The Taco Terrier was born when the Chihuahua and the Toy Fox Terrier were crossed. Due to this history, they are miniature-sized dogs. The Taco part of their name came from the chihuahua that was used in the Taco Bell adverts.

The Taco is one of the most miniature dog breeds on the planet, but they have a massive personality with tons of courage and bravery.

The Taco Terrier is intelligent and eager to please its owners, and more often than not, they get along incredibly well with pets and children.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 6-10 inches
Weight: 6-8 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers

The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is an American hunting terrier that was brought over by immigrants and is a mix of a range of terrier breeds. Their history is very similar to the Rat Terrier, and since the 1990s, they have been split into two types. Additionally, The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is named after the famous president Theodore Roosevelt as he was an avid hunter and sportsman.

Their coat is short, dense and has a medium, hard to smooth texture. The Teddie’s coat comes in various colours, but there must be some white in the fur.

Teddies are known for their playfulness and high energy. Furthermore, they adapt very well to dog sports such as agility, barn hunt and weight pull. They also make lovely family pets, so don’t hesitate if you’re planning to purchase a Teddy.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 8-15 inches
Weight: 10-25 lbs
Life span: 14-17 years

Tenterfield Terriers

The Tenterfield Terrier is a small, active Australian dog breed. Their ancestors came from British sailors that came over on ships to control rats and vermin. The Tenterfield quickly spread around the Australian countryside once they arrived.

They have a coat that is short and smooth that is easy to take care of. Tenterfield’s are primarily white with patches of black, liver, blue or tan.

The Tenterfield has a loving and companionable temperament. Curious, playful and bright personalities, they are highly intelligent and can live well with other dogs.

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 8-10 lbs
Life span: 12-14 years

Tibetan Terriers

You can find the Tibetan Terrier worldwide, but they originated from a mix of terrier breeds in Tibet and India in the 20th century. They worked as sheepherders to monks in the area. 

Tibetans have a woolly undercoat and a fine topcoat, which serves as a natural insulator. Their eyes are large, round and set to be far apart. Furthermore, their ears are V-shaped, not too large and massively covered in fur.

Overall, the Tibetan Terrier is a great family dog with a loving, loyal, and gentle temperament. However, they don’t make fantastic guard dogs as they are usually friendly towards people and strangers.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 18-24 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Welsh Terriers

The Welsh Terrier is a tough and adorable looking dog that was bred in Wales and is one of the oldest recorded terriers. By the 19th century, they became trendy and have since been refined to introduce them to the show ring.

The Welsh Terrier is a compact and sturdy dog with a weather-proof coat, which is only accepted in black and tan. A high-energy dog, you should walk your Welshy with a minimum of 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous exercise each day.

Be warned; the Welsh Terrier has a strong mind and personality that requires a strong and experienced owner. Be expected for them to push the boundaries, but if you’re assertive enough, you’ll enjoy the challenge.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 18-22 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

West Highland Terriers

The West Highland Terrier, otherwise known as a Westy, is one of the most well-known terrier breeds in the UK and USA. They originated in the Highlands of Scotland and were raised for Fox and Badger hunting. 

A compact and robust dog with broad shoulders and a deep chest, they also have tiny legs, which are powerful for their size. Their tail is one of their best appearances, covered in rough fur. It is the shape of a small inverted carrot. Additionally, there is only one colour suitable for the Westy: white.

In general, they have a sweet and gentle nature and are recognised as one of the most friendly and affectionate terrier breeds. However, don’t forget their character, and if your Westy is from working lines, they may still have their strong prey drive.

Rating: ★★★★★
Height: 8-12 inches
Weight: 15-22 lbs
Life span: 12-16 years

Wheaten Terriers

The Wheaten Terrier is an ancient breed from Ireland and is around 200 years old. In Ireland, Wheatens were known as the poor man’s dog as they were farm dogs and expected to complete a range of tasks.

A square, sturdy terrier, the Wheaten has a long beard under its muzzle. Furthermore, they have average-sized ears which are dropped forward. The hallmark of the Wheaten is their silky soft, wavey coat, which comes in a pale beige to shimmering gold. 

Fun-loving, the Wheaten Terrier, is more easygoing than most terrier breeds. Unfortunately, they are filthy dogs due to their fur, so if you like an immaculate house, we suggest you look elsewhere.  

Rating: ★★★★☆
Height: 15-19 inches
Weight: 25-40 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years

Yorkshire Terriers

Small in size but big in personality, the Yorky was developed in Yorkshire, England, from a range of breeds, including some which are now extinct. The original Yorkshire Terriers were larger than today, but they have been turned into miniature lap dogs due to selective breeding.

The Yorkshire Terrier coat is straight, fine and shiny, which is usually grown out long and then parted down the middle. Yorkies can have floor-length coats if not regularly groomed. 

Don’t be fooled by their size; they have tremendous confidence and self-importance for their size. 

Rating: ★★★☆☆
Height: 6-7 inches
Weight: 4-7 lbs
Life span: 12-15 years