Terrier Group
Terriers — from the wee Yorkshire and Cairn to the robust Bull and Airedale — share a 'go ahead, just try me' personality. They were bred to dispatch rats, badgers and foxes solo, which baked in confidence, prey drive, and an independent streak that can frustrate first-time trainers.
Common Traits at a Glance
- energy
- High (4/5)
- exercise
- 45–90 min/day
- trainability
- Good but strong-willed
- kid Friendly
- Variable — better with older kids
- shedding
- Often low (wire coats)
History & Origin
The word 'terrier' comes from the Latin *terra* (earth) — these dogs were bred to 'go to ground.' British farmers and aristocrats developed dozens of regional types in the 18th and 19th centuries; many still carry the names of their home counties (Yorkshire, Norfolk, Border, Welsh).
Is a Terrier dog right for you?
Great fit if you…
- •Big personality in a small package
- •Many shed minimally
- •Tireless and fun-loving
Maybe not if you…
- •Strong prey drive — small pets at risk
- •Stubborn during training
- •Often bark and dig
Flagship breeds in this group
Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier is a comical, muscular clown defined by its unique egg-shaped head and deep loyalty. While playful and charming with family, they possess a powerful prey drive and stubborn terrier will. This is not a breed for a novice owner. They require extensive, early socialization and consistent training to manage potential dog-aggression and prevent destructive behaviors.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Affectionately called the "nanny dog," the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a loving, playful, and courageous family companion. Their muscular build requires significant daily exercise (60-90 min) and a strong commitment to early socialization and training is non-negotiable. While loyal and gentle with family, their terrier heritage can mean a high prey drive and potential dog-selectivity. Not for a novice owner.
Airedale Terrier
The “King of Terriers,” the Airedale is a bold, intelligent, and high-energy breed. They are loyal and protective but possess a stubborn streak that requires experienced handling. With non-negotiable needs for vigorous daily exercise and consistent training, they are a poor fit for novice owners or apartment living, thriving instead with an active, dedicated family.
West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a spunky, confident, and charming companion with a classic terrier spirit. While small and adaptable to apartment living, they require daily walks and securely fenced yards. Owners must be prepared for their independent streak, vocal nature, and a high potential for chronic skin allergies, which can require significant veterinary care and expense.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is a proud, independent, and spirited dog with a classic terrier personality. Loyal to family but reserved with strangers, they require a confident owner who can handle their stubborn streak. Moderate exercise needs are offset by high grooming requirements for their wiry coat. Prone to specific, serious health issues, they are best for experienced owners.
Terrier Group FAQs
Are terriers good for apartments?
Many are excellent apartment dogs — Yorkies, Cairns, West Highland Whites and Norfolk Terriers thrive in small spaces if exercised twice daily. Larger working terriers (Airedale, Bull Terrier) need more room.
Why are terriers so stubborn?
Their original work required independent decision-making underground, where they couldn't take cues from a handler. That self-reliance shows up as 'stubbornness' in modern training — keep sessions short, fun and high-value.
Do terriers shed?
Most terrier coats are wiry and shed minimally, but they require professional 'hand-stripping' or clipping every 6–10 weeks to maintain texture and skin health.