Types of Terriers

Terrier dogs are best described as fun and energetic dogs to have as pets. Dogs are often known to be the most loyal pets man can have and terrier dogs prove to be one of the most stable and friendly breeds to have around the house. From the very beginning, terrier dogs were bred mainly for the purpose of hunting and killing. Although these types of dogs are smaller in size, they are useful in hunting and tracking small animals or even trail quarry. This also depends upon the size of the terriers. Let us take a look at some of the different types of terriers and the various breeds that belong to these categories.

Types of Terriers:
The different types of terriers are classified as per certain categories. Their functionality also depends upon the particular category. Toy terriers have been bred from the larger sized terriers. The bull terriers are a combination of bulldogs and terriers. There are also terriers meant only for hunting and trailing an animal. These include the Full terriers meant to kill foxes. Here is a list of some common types of terrier dogs and characteristic features about them.

Fox Terriers:
Fox terriers are very popular as family pets and are extremely active in nature. These highly energetic dogs need exercise regularly and are very playful in nature. Fox terriers are rather proportionate in their appearance and have typical v-shaped ears. These terriers are generally fully white in color but at times, you can see patches of brown or black on their fur. These terriers are usually large or medium in size.

Scottish Terrier:
Scottish terriers have originated in Scotland. This particular terrier is highly excitable in nature and also independent. They also do not mingle very easily with strangers and perhaps this is the reason why the Scottish terrier tends to be useful as a watchdog although it is relatively small in size. The Scottish terrier has a coat that is shaded in shades of grey or black. The Scottish terrier is also popularly known as Scottie.

English Toy Terrier:
This breed of terrier has a typical shape for the ear, which resembles the flame of the candle. This terrier dog has shades of black and tan for the coat. This dog was initially used for sport (to kill rats) but later on, it only remained as a show dog.

Bull Terrier:
Bull terriers are extremely friendly dogs that are really playful in nature. The main characteristic feature of Bull terriers lies in their exceptional ability to gel with children. These dogs are muscular in their appearance and are white in color with shades of brown. One can even see a miniature version of this breed and such terriers are known as miniature Bull terriers.

Irish Terrier:
The Irish terrier is not as active as compared to all the other terriers. This dog also loves to relax as per its mood. They are rather good-natured dogs that love to be with children as well. Being intelligent, these dogs are used as show dogs. Irish terriers are generally small in size and have a thick reddish brown colored coat.

Welsh Terrier:
The Welsh terrier displays the traits of a typical terrier – highly energetic and extremely loving. Their energy levels are bound to keep you on your toes at all times! Welsh terriers have two layers of coats. They have a typical shade of tan on the head area as well their legs. Welsh terriers also love to hunt and are therefore considered to be suitable for hunting badgers or foxes.

These are a few of the various types of terriers seen. In all, these terriers are as loving as any other dogs and delightful to have as pets!