Meet the 32 Different Terrier Breeds and Learn Which Is Right for You

The word “terrier” comes from the Latin terra, meaning earth. It’s a fitting name, as these dogs were bred to go to ground—literally—chasing foxes, badgers, and rats into burrows. That working background explains many traits terrier dogs still share today.

Most types of terrier dogs are:

• Energetic and driven
• Confident and bold
• Intelligent problem-solvers

Many were bred to work independently, so they don’t always wait for instructions. That doesn’t mean they can’t be wonderful companions—it just means terriers need patient, positive training and consistent mental stimulation.

While there are some misnomers—the Yorkshire Terrier, despite the breed’s name, actually belongs to the Toy group—terrier dogs come in all shapes and sizes.

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 11–14 years
• Temperament: Loyal, clever, spirited

Often called the “king of terriers,” the Airedale Terrier is the largest of the group—and they act like it. Athletic and highly intelligent, they excel in advanced obedience, agility, and nose work.

Because of their smarts and need for vigorous daily exercise (one to two hours per day is ideal), Airedales are best suited for experienced, active pet parents who want a partner in adventure—not a couch potato.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 14–16 years
• Temperament: Energetic, alert, curious

The American Hairless Terrier is playful, affectionate, and surprisingly athletic given their small size. They’re unique among terriers because while some have a short, smooth coat, many are hairless.

Coated American Hairless Terriers have minimal grooming needs. But if your dog lacks fur, you’ll need to take extra care of their skin by protecting them from sunburn, providing warmth in cold weather, and giving them frequent baths to support skin health.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–16 years
• Temperament: Devoted, funny, playful

Underneath all those muscles, the American Staffordshire Terrier is an affectionate, good-natured, people-oriented dog. They thrive when included in family routines and, like all dogs, benefit from early, positive socialization.

After burning off energy on neighborhood walks or backyard playtime, AmStaffs can make snuggly family dogs.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 11–15 years
• Temperament: Spirited, zippy, exuberant

Don’t let the size fool you—the Australian Terrier is fearless. Originally bred to control pests in harsh terrain, this small terrier dog is alert and active but adaptable to family life. They can do well in apartments if given daily walks and plenty of mental enrichment through games and toys.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 11–16 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, inquisitive, quick

No, that’s not a lamb—but it sure does look like one. The Bedlington Terrier has a super-soft coat of light curls that calls for frequent trips to the groomer (so budget accordingly!).

Pet parents will also need to incorporate daily at-home grooming into their routine, specifically brushing their dog with a pin brush to prevent matting.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Bold, spunky, affectionate

The Border Terrier is a small terrier dog breed with a wiry coat and plenty of personality. They were originally bred in the U.K. to protect sheep from foxes and still retain that tenacious spirit today.

But they’re also adaptable pups and can often live happily with other pets or children when properly introduced.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–13 years
• Temperament: Playful, energetic, silly

If you want personality, the Bull Terrier delivers. Known for their egg-shaped head and clownish behavior, Bull Terriers crave attention and structured play. They love being close to their people and making them laugh!

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 13–15 years
• Temperament: Cheery, curious, sporty

Famous as Toto in The Wizard of Oz, the Cairn Terrier is sporty and endlessly curious. They love to dig, so secure your yard, supervise outdoor time, and provide other outlets for their energy, such as exercise and interactive toys.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Adventurous, affectionate, alert

One of the lesser-known terrier dog breeds is the Cesky Terrier. They’re also the only Czech dog breed recognized by the American Kennel Club.

The breed was created in the mid-20th century by crossing two other terrier breeds (the Scottish Terrier and the Sealyham Terrier). The goal? To produce an ideal hunting partner and family companion, according to the breed club.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Independent, brainy, steady

With their long body and distinctive topknot, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier stands out as another unique terrier breed. They’re thoughtful and somewhat reserved, preferring steady routines and moderate daily exercise.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 10–15 years
• Temperament: Brave, gentle, spirited

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a scruffy, low-to-the-ground Irish breed. Often considered quieter than many other terriers, they still need structured activity and daily exercise to stay happy. Otherwise, they might let you know they’re bored.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 13–15 years
• Temperament: Energetic, loyal, affectionate

If you want a terrier who is all heart, meet the fiery red Irish Terrier. They’re famously devoted and often shadow their favorite person from room to room. This breed thrives with positive leadership, daily vigorous walks, and structured training sessions. Their wiry coat typically requires hand-stripping to maintain proper texture.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Alert, intelligent, friendly

With their curly coat that comes in shades of black, blue, or silver, the Kerry Blue Terrier is as striking as they are smart. They excel in dog sports like obedience and agility, and they thrive in active households that happily include their dog in adventures.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Playful, quirky, mischievous

Often called “Lakies,” the Lakeland Terrier was bred to pursue foxes across rocky terrain. These determined little dogs need ample exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

Make sure all outdoor exercise is supervised and either in a fenced area or on a secure leash, as Lakelands love to chase whatever catches their eye.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 15–17 years
• Temperament: Peppy, playful, alert

Elegant and quick, the Manchester Terrier has a sleek coat that requires little grooming and a sharp mind that enjoys fast-paced games. Like many terriers, they form tight bonds with their family.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 11–13 years
• Temperament: Playful, lively, affectionate

Think of the Miniature Bull Terrier as a powerhouse in a compact body. They’re muscular, energetic, and full of comedic personality, just like their larger Bull Terrier relatives. Early socialization, leash manners, and lots of toys are must-haves for this strong-willed little terrier.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Friendly, spirited, adaptable

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small and scrappy terrier who makes a popular family dog. At 20 pounds max, they’re the smallest of the Schnauzers, but they have a big personality and can thrive in many different types of homes.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–16 years
• Temperament: Bold, alert, affectionate

The Norfolk Terrier is a compact but sturdy pal who’s social and often happiest when they’re part of your daily routine. Moderate exercise, consistent training, and regular brushing help keep this small terrier happy.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, alert, curious

At first glance, the Norwich Terrier resembles the Norfolk, but there’s one easy way to tell them apart: Norwich Terriers have ears that stand upright, while Norfolks’ ears fold over. But both breeds share similar exercise and grooming needs.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 13–15 years
• Temperament: Bold, energetic, zesty

Often called the Jack Russell Terrier, the Parson was bred to be a determined hunter of groundhogs, raccoons, and foxes.

But they’re not a breed for an inexperienced pet parent—this terrier needs serious daily exercise. Without appropriate outlets, this high-drive pup can quickly become restless and develop unwanted behaviors.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–18 years
• Temperament: Cheery, energetic, loyal

Originally a farm dog, the Rat Terrier is now an adaptable and clever companion. They enjoy puzzle toys and games that challenge their sharp mind. 

This breed often forms strong bonds with their family and thrives with consistent routines and plenty of mental enrichment. With proper care, they have a long lifespan of up to 18 years.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Quick-witted, energetic, eager

Russell Terriers look a lot like Parson Russell Terriers, and they used to be considered the same terrier breed. And while both are super energetic, active, and brainy pups, if you look closely, Russells are a bit shorter and have a longer torso than Parson Russells.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12 years
• Temperament: Free-spirited, self-assured, attentive

The dignified Scottish Terrier is instantly recognizable thanks to their beard and upright ears. Known for their independent streak, they do best with patient training and predictable daily routines. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their iconic silhouette.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Outgoing, alert, affectionate

The charming Sealyham Terrier has a dense white coat and sturdy build. Originally bred in Wales, this terrier tends to be affectionate with family members and needs moderate daily exercise. Routine brushing helps maintain their thick coat.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Loyal, dignified, courageous

With their long, flowing coat, the Skye Terrier is striking. But where the breed really thrives is with loyalty and love from their family.

Their grooming routine calls for serious commitment, and they often bond deeply with one or two people. Calm, consistent homes suit Skyes best.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Intelligent, lively, charming

The Smooth Fox Terrier is athletic, quick, and always ready for action. While their short coat is easy to maintain, their high energy level is anything but low-maintenance. Make sure they get enough exercise, because a tired Smooth Fox Terrier is a happy Smooth Fox Terrier.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Friendly, happy, devoted

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is known for greeting loved ones with enthusiastic affection. Their silky coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. They thrive in active households that provide consistent training and daily exercise.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Doting, playful, silly

The sturdy Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a muscular pup who’s famously people-oriented. So people-oriented, in fact, that the breed has historically earned the nickname “nanny dog” because of the dogs’ reputation for being gentle with children. Early socialization helps them grow into confident, well-mannered companions.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 14–16 years
• Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, playful

Bred from various terriers and hound dogs, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is adaptable and eager to please. These dogs enjoy interactive games, training sessions, and keeping active. Their versatility makes them a good fit for many types of households.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Friendly, spirited, high-energy

The Welsh Terrier is a lively and intelligent dog with a curly black-and-tan coat. Regular hand-stripping keeps their wiry coat in top condition, so enlist the help of a professional groomer to keep your pup looking their best.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 13–15 years
• Temperament: Cheerful, alert, courageous

As an all-white terrier breed, the West Highland White Terrier, aka the Westie, needs careful grooming to keep their coat pristine. But you might have your work cut out for you—this dog is all about adventure and will happily join you for hikes.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Alert, confident, friendly

The Wire Fox Terrier is bold, quick, and highly expressive. Closely related to the Smooth Fox Terrier, the main difference between the two breeds is coat type—that Wire Fox Terrier has a longer, rougher coat.