Terrier Dogs

Dogs belonging to the terrier dog breeds have the natural inclination to kill vermin and rodents by digging the ground, or by simply chasing them. Terrier in effect means earth, and the history of terrier dogs goes back to their development to kill rats in pit contests or fight each other. They were traditionally used to keep these rodents and even other predators such as foxes away from farms and livestock. This means, by nature they are energetic, brave, determined, and protectors, being considered as genuine valuable assets by those who have owned them. Here, we provide you with information about terrier dogs, that will help you choose one that will make a suitable companion for you.

Terrier Dog Breeds

As mentioned earlier, terriers have always been protectors of man and his environment. Thus, terrier dog characteristics include vivacity, strength, courage and bravery. It is important to note that terriers should not be undermined by their size. In fact, the little terrier types are known to be more violent and vigorous than the larger ones. By breeding them over years, their strength has been further increased to stand the test of strength and bravery. It is only lately that their grooming and appearance has been brought under consideration when breeding. Now perhaps not every terrier dog breed may possess the traditional characteristics that define them, but they nevertheless make wonderful companions for man, with their affection, playfulness, love for children, and their undeterred devotion towards their owners.

The table presented below, provides an overview about the various terrier dog breeds that enlists their care and attention requirements, based on which you can decide which of the dogs from this list is the one most suited for you.

Terrier Dog Breeds	Size	Exercise	Grooming	Life Span (Years)
Airedaile Terrier	Large	Medium	High	10-14
American Staffordshire Terrier	Medium	High	Low	12-14
Australian Terrier	Small	Medium	Medium	12-14
Bedlington Terrier	Medium	Medium	Medium	12-14
Border Terrier	Small	Medium	Medium	10-14
Bull Terrier	Medium	Medium	Low	10-14
Cairn Terrier	Small	Medium	Medium	10-14
Cesky Terrier	Medium	Medium	High	10-14
Dandie Dinmont Terrier	Small	medium	High	10-14
Fox Terrier (Smooth)	Medium	Medium	Low	10-14
Fox Terrier (Wire)	Medium	Medium	High	10-14
Glen of Imaal Terrier	Small	Medium	Medium	10-14
Irish Terrier	Medium	Medium	Medium	10-14
Kerry Blue Terrier	Medium	Medium	High	10-14
Lakeland Terrier	Medium	Medium	High	10-14
Manchester Terrier	Medium	Medium	Low	10-14
Miniature Bull Terrier	Medium	Medium	Low	11-14
Miniature Schnauzer	Medium	Medium	Medium	12-14
Norfolk Terrier	Small	Medium	Medium	10-14
Norwich Terrier	Small	Medium	Medium	10-14
Parson Russell Terrier	Medium	Medium	Low	10-14
Scottish Terrier	Medium	Medium	High	10-14
Sealyham Terrier	Small	Medium	High	10-14
Skye Terrier	Medium	Medium	Medium	10-14
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier	Medium	Medium	High	10-14
Staffordshire Bull Terrier	Medium	High	Low	10-14
Welsh Terrier	Medium	Medium	High	10-14
West Highland White Terrier	Small	Medium	High	10-14

Misconceptions About Terriers

It is true that terriers are feisty and dynamic, and because some of the breeds are large, they may appear a little intimidating. Over time with cross breeding, a bad and notorious reputation has been created for these otherwise extremely affectionate dogs. When crossbred with bulldogs, terriers have developed some dangerous characteristics, that can be misused by those with negative intentions. Also, this cross breeding has increased the aggression levels in the terrier breeds, which have led to some serious incidents where they have bitten little children.

Therefore, what must be kept in mind is that terriers need to be trained well by giving them appropriate training, and given proper attention. Just like a child, different types of dogs, including your terrier, require care, affection and attention so that they can develop and enhance its inherent traits that include friendliness, stability and calmness. It is only when you live with one of these that you will realize what wonderful pets they can make.