Terriers are known for their fun-loving nature, outgoing personalities, courage, and tenacity. They come in all shapes and sizes, but some look so alike that you can’t tell one from another.
Today, there are as many as 50 terrier breeds being recognized by the major kennel clubs such as the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the Kennel Club (KC), the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), and the American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA) combined.
Airedale Terrier (a.k.a. Bingley Terrier, Waterside Terrier)
The Airedale Terrier, also called the King of Terriers, is the largest in size of the terrier group. Bred in the Valley of the Aire River, Yorkshire, the Airedale Terrier is a cross between the old English rough-coated Black and Tan Terrier, and the Otterhound.
The Airedale Terrier is capable of hunting vermins on land, and otters in the water. Hence it was considered a valuable and very versatile breed to have. And due to their great sense of smell, Airedale Terriers have also been used as tracking dogs, as well as messager dogs in both World Wars.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Black & Gold |
| Height | M: 56-61 cm (22″-24″) F: 56-59 cm (22″-23″) |
| Weight | M: 18-23 Kg (40-50 lbs) F: 16-18 Kg (35-40 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 10 -12 yrs |
American Staffordshire Terrier (a.k.a. Amstaff, American Staffy)
Despite its ancestry as a fighting dog, descending from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Pit Bull) bloodline, the American Staffordshire Terrier has evolved into a well-mannered and affectionate breed of its own.
Initially registered with the AKC as Staffordshire Bull Terrier in 1936, the name was later changed to American Staffordshire Terrier in 1972; as it was being developed as a different breed with variance in weight, height, and temperament more suited towards show and companionship.
One thing worth mentioning, the AKC only recognizes an American Staffordshire Terrier breed if both parents are American Staffordshire Terriers. Hence, while an Amstaff can still technically be considered an American Pit Bull, an American Pit Bull may not necessarily be an Amstaff.
| Origin | USA |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, Blue Fawn, Blue, Blue Brindle, Brown, Brown Brindle, Fawn, Fawn Brindle, Liver, Red, Red Brindle, Red Sable, White, Black Brindle, Liver Brindle, Fawn Sable, Seal Brown, Blue Fawn Brindle |
| Height | M: 46-48 cm (18″-19″) F: 43-46 cm (17″-18″) |
| Weight | M: 25-32 Kg (55-70 lbs) F: 18-25 Kg (40-55 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 -16 yrs |
American Hairless Terrier (acronym A.H.T.)
The existence of the American Hairless Terrier began with an unintended random genetic occurrence when a Rat Terrier was born with no coat. Offsprings of subsequent hairless Rat Terriers were carefully bred and became what is known today as the American Hairless Terrier.
The American Hairless Terrier Association (AHTA) was formed in order for the American Hairless Terrier to be considered its own breed, and in 2004 the breed was recognized by the UKC, followed by the AKC in 2016.
Due to its genetics, the breed does produce short-coated variants. The breed also has a miniature version that is no taller than 13 inches.
| Origin | USA |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Apricot, Black, Blue Fawn, Blue, Chocolate, Lemon, Red, Red Sable, White & Apricot, White & Black, White & Lemon, White & Red, Seal, White & Chocolate, White & Blue, White & Blue Fawn, Lilac Dilute, Black Sable Red |
| Height | avg. 25-45 cm (10″-18″) |
| Weight | avg. 3-7.7 Kg (7-17 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 14 -16 yrs |
American Pit Bull Terrier
The Pit Bull Terrier is a descendant of the old English Bulldog. The breed was further developed by crossing with terriers to achieve agility and speed for ratting.
Upon arriving in America, the breed adopted the name the American Pit Bull Terrier and quickly became an American icon of bravery and loyalty. For its respected qualities of being a friendly, brave, and hardworking breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier became the ‘All American Dog’ and was the nation’s mascot in both World Wars.
| Origin | USA |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Black & Gold |
| Height | avg. 12″-16″ |
| Weight | avg. 30-85 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12 -16 yrs |
Australian Terrier (a.k.a. Aussie Terrier)
The Australian Terrier, initially known as the Rough Coated Terrier, is a terrier breed native to and first to be registered in Australia.
Its ancestry can be traced back to English terrier breeds and was originally bred for vermin control in the homestead of early settlers in Tasmania.
They’re one of the smaller breeds in the terrier group, but don’t be fooled by their petite appearances as their courage and senses make them excellent watchdogs.
| Origin | Australia |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Blue & Tan, Sand, Red |
| Height | avg. <25 cm (<10″) |
| Weight | avg. 6.5 Kg (14 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 -14 yrs |
Australian Silky Terrier* (a.k.a. Silky Terrier)
Formerly known as the Sydney Silky, the Australian Silky Terrier is a petite terrier, classified into the toy* group with each respective kennel club.
The Silky can easily be mistaken for a Yorkshire Terrier or an Australian Terrier at first glance, and that’s not without a reason, because the Australian Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier are the two main contributors to the Silky’s gene pool.
| Origin | Australia |
| Group | Toy |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Blue & Tan, Blue Silver & Tan, Gray & Tan, Silver & Tan, Silver Black & Tan |
| Height | avg. 23-26 cm (9″-10″) |
| Weight | avg. 4.5 Kg (10 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 13 -15 yrs |
Bedlington Terrier (a.k.a. Gypsy Dogs, Rothbury, Rodbury Terrier)
The Bedlington Terrier, bearing a unique resemblance to a lamb, is a terrier that moves well in the water and snow, and is also fast on land.
Originally bred for hunting and pest control, the Bedlington Terrier has also been known to be used in pit fighting as well as race dogs.
Despite the breed’s feisty nature, the Bedlington Terrier is considered mild and a good family pet for active owners by the kennel clubs. However, this is a rare breed that is hardly found outside of Great Britain.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Blue, Blue & Tan, Liver, Liver & Tan, Sandy, Sandy & Tan |
| Height | M: 41-44 cm (16″-18″) F: 38-42 cm (15″-17″) |
| Weight | avg. 7-10 Kg (17-23 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 -14 yrs |
Biewer Terrier (a.k.a Black & White Yorkshire, Biewer Yorkshire)
The Biewer Terrier, once referred to as the Black & White Yorkie, is the creation of German Yorkie breeder Werner and Gertrud Biewer beginning with a Blue, White, and Gold Biewer Terrier named Schneeflocken von Friedheck in 1984.
The breed’s origin was said to be a random occurrence from breeding Yorkshire Terriers, but studies from geneticists have shown the Biewer Terrier to be a purebred with dominant traits of four others, which include Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, and Havanese/Bichon Frise.
Since its arrival in America in 2003, the Biewer Terrier has slowly gained recognition and was accepted into the Foundation Stock Service Program by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2014, and was registered in the Miscellaneous Class in 2019, and recognized as a breed in the toy group in 2021.
| Origin | Germany |
| Group | Toy |
| Colour | White, Black, Black & White, Blue, Blue & White |
| Height | avg. 17-28 cm (7″-11″) |
| Weight | avg. 1.8-3.6 Kg (4-8 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | avg. 16 yrs |
Black Russian Terrier* (a.k.a. Chornyi Terrier, acronym B.R.T.)
The Black Russian Terrier was bred by mating the Giant Schnauzer with the Airedale Terrier and Rottweiler. Offsprings were then bred together with input from other breeds to develop a specialized breed of guard dog and general service dog.
Though Airedale blood runs in its veins, the Black Russian Terrier is not entirely a terrier and is being classified as a working* dog and breed standard recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1984.
| Origin | Russia |
| Group | Working |
| Colour | Black, Black & Tan, Blue, Sable, Salt & Pepper |
| Height | M: 72-76 cm (28″-30″) F: 68-72 cm (27″-28″) |
| Weight | M: 50-60 Kg (110-130 lbs) F: 45-50 Kg (99-110 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 10 -14 yrs |
Border Terrier (a.k.a. Coquetdale Terrier, Redesdale Terrier)
The Border Terrier is native to Northumberland, sharing an ancestry with the Bedlington Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier. It was bred with long legs in order to keep up with horses and foxhounds during hunting trips, but small enough to bolt foxes out of their burrows.
Unlike its terrier peers, the Border Terrier was bred to be less aggressive and is able to work with other dogs, as opposed to working solo.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Blue & Tan, Grizzle & Tan, Red, Wheaten |
| Height | M: 33-40 cm (13″-16″) F: 28-36 cm (11″-14″) |
| Weight | M: 6-7 Kg (13-15 lbs) F: 5-6 Kg (12-14 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Boston Terrier* (a.k.a. Boston Bull, American Gentleman)
Ranked as one of the most popular dogs, the Boston Terrier has its origins as a breed between the Bull and Terrier type, and Bulldog type, and was subsequently bred to the smaller size that it is today.
As a breed on its own, the Boston Terrier was developed as a versatile and affectionate breed. Recognized by the AKC in 1893, the breed has since entered the hearts and homes of many as a companion dog of choice.
Despite its terrier name, the Boston Terrier is categorized into different groups within each kennel clubs namely the non-sporting group with the American Kennel Club (AKC), the utility group with the Kennel Club (KC), the companion & toy group with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), and the companion group with the United Kennel Club (UKC).
| Origin | USA |
| Group | Non-sporting |
| Colour | Black & White, Black Brindle & White, Brindle & White, Seal & White, Seal Brindle & White |
| Height | avg. 23-38 cm (9″-15″) |
| Weight | avg. 3-11 Kg (6-25 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 11-13 yrs |
Brazilian Terrier (a.k.a. Terrier Brasileiro, Fox Paulistinha)
Registered at the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the Brazilian Confederation of Cynophilia (CBKC), the Brazilian Terrier is a native breed created from the crossing of European terrier breeds and local breeds common in the São Paulo region.
Though the ancestry of the Brazilian Terrier is unclear, researchers have proposed the breed as a possible cross between terrier breeds such as Fox Terrier, Jack Russell, and Parson Russell, with the local breeds. And through generations of breeding, a fixed phenotype was reached.
The Brazilian Terrier too was bred for hunting vermins in warehouses and farms. And it’s precisely for this pest-controlling quality, that terriers were common aboard merchants’ vessels and eventually arriving at the shores of Brazil.
| Origin | Brazil |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Always Tricolour, with Black, Blue, Brown, or Isabella markings |
| Height | M: 35-40 cm (14″-16″) F: 33-38 cm (13″-15″) |
| Weight | avg. 6.5-10 Kg (14-22 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 13-16 yrs |
Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier, with a muscular build and a distinctive long “egg-shaped” head with no stop, is a strong and powerful breed of the terrier group. This endearing breed also has a miniature version with a height of up to 35 Kg (14″) and weighs up to 13 Kg (28 lbs). Miniature Bull Terriers are considered a separate breed within the terrier group.
As a direct descendant of the ‘Bull and Terrier’, Bull Terriers were initially bred for pit fighting like many of their fighting breed counterparts. However, over the years the breed has slowly been transformed into more for companionship.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | White, Black Brindle & White, Black Tan & White, Brindle, Brindle & White, White & Red, White Black & Tan, Black Brindle |
| Height | avg. 45-55 cm (18″-22″) |
| Weight | avg. 20-30 Kg (45-65 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-13 yrs |
Cairn Terrier
Having its roots in the Scottish Highlands as a hunting terrier, the Cairn Terrier was initially known as the short-coated Skye Terrier. Only to be recognized as its own breed by the Kennel Club (KC) in 1910.
The Cairn Terrier got their name from how well they were able to hunt and chase quarries amongst the cairns (rough stones built as a memorial or landmark) of the Scottish Highlands.
| Origin | Scotland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, Brindle, Cream, Gray, Gray Brindle, Red, Red Brindle, Red Wheaten, Silver, Wheaten, Cream Brindle, Black Brindle |
| Height | avg. 23-33 cm (9″-13″) |
| Weight | avg. 4.5-7 Kg (10-16 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 13-15 yrs |
Cesky Terrier (a.k.a. Bohemian Terrier, Czech Terrier)
Cesky Terrier, one of the rarest dog breeds in the world, is native to and a national dog of the Czech Republic.
The breed was developed by crossing the Scottish Terriers with the Sealyham Terriers, in hopes of leading to a more cooperative working and forest-hunting dog. As a result, the Cesky Terrier did turned out to be more sociable and trainable than the typical terrier.
| Origin | Czech |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Shades of Grey, Coffee Brown with Liver pigment |
| Height | avg. 25-33 cm (10″-13″) |
| Weight | avg. 6-11 Kg (14-24 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the only breed with permission from the Duke of Buccleuch (Chief of Clan Scott), to wear the official black and white tartan, owing its breed name to Sir Walter Scott and his famous novel, ‘Guy Mannering’.
Possible ancestries traced to a crossing between the Otterhound and the now-extinct Scotch Terrier, the breed was originally bred for hunting small animals and later became known for its otter tracking ability.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier was considered a vulnerable native breed by The Kennel Club (KC) in 2016, with sightings of low birth rates in both the United Kingdom and the United States.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Mustard, Pepper |
| Height | avg. 20-28 cm (8″-11″) |
| Weight | avg. 8-11 Kg (18-24 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 11-13 yrs |
English Toy Terrier* (a.k.a. Miniature Black & Tan, Manchester (Toy) Terrier)
Developed from the Black & Tan terrier type, with possible crossings with the Manchester Terrier and the Italian Greyhound at later stages, the English Toy Terrier was formerly known as the Miniature Black & Tan and only took on the new name in 1962 according to the English Toy Terrier Club.
English Toy Terrier is a small breed that was initially developed for the sport of rat-baiting, but as the sport gradually became illegal during the early 1900s, the elegance of the English Toy Terrier started to gain popularity as a show dog.
The English Toy Terrier is currently categorized in the toy group by the Kennel Club (KC) and the American Kennel Club (AKC), but is categorized in the terrier group by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The breed is also considered to be a vulnerable breed by the kennel clubs.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan |
| Height | avg. 25-30 cm (10″-12″) |
| Weight | avg. 2.7-3.6 Kg (6-8 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 11-13 yrs |
Glen of Imaal Terrier (a.k.a. Wicklow Terrier, Glen)
The Glen of Imaal Terrier, an intelligent and hardy terrier breed theorized to have come from the crossing of the Flemish hounds and local Irish breeds during the 1600s when the land was given to the Flemish soldiers for defeating an Irish rebellion in Wicklow, Ireland.
Glen of Imaal Terriers is a tough terrier breed used to working in the mountainous terrains of Wicklow. They would also work together with Lakeland Terriers and Fox Terriers in fox and badger hunting.
The breed came close to being extinct and was revived by local breeders in the early 20th century.
| Origin | Ireland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Blue Brindle, Wheaten |
| Height | avg. 30-35 cm (12″-14″) |
| Weight | avg. 14-18 Kg (32-40 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 10-15 yrs |
Irish Terrier (a.k.a. Irish Red Terrier)
The Irish Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds. Though their heritage is unclear, they’re believed to have come from the Black & Tan Terrier, and may also be related to the Irish Wolfhound.
The Irish Terrier was developed based on the ability to hunt and retrieve, and not appearances. Their good sense of smell also made them an excellent choice as messenger and sentinel dogs during World War I.
| Origin | Ireland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Blue Brindle, Wheaten |
| Height | M: 43-46 cm (17″-18″) F: 41-46 cm (16″-18″) |
| Weight | M: 11-12 Kg (25-27 lbs) F: 11-12 Kg (24-26 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 13-15 yrs |
Jack Russell Terrier (acronym J.R.T.)
The Jack Russell Terrier, together with the Parson Russell Terrier and Russell Terrier, is one of the three breeds that descended from the Reverend John Russell fox terrier breeding program in 1819.
Though sharing a similar temperament, coat types, and general appearance with its relatives, the Jack Russell Terrier does differ in size and shape. In general, the Jack Russell Terrier is shorter in height than a Parson Russell Terrier, has a rectangular body and shorter legs, but is taller than a Russell Terrier.
The Jack Russell Terrier is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the Kennel Club (KC), and the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America (JRTCA), but not by the American Kennel Club (AKC) after a change in recognition for the Parson Russell Terrier in 2003, following a breed standard revision in 2004.
More information on the Jack Russell breed.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Predominately White, with Black and/or Tan markings |
| Height | avg. 25-38 cm (10″-15″) |
| Weight | avg. 5-7.5 Kg (11-16 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 13-15 yrs |
Jagdterrier* (a.k.a. Deutscher Jagdterrier, German Hunting Terrier)
The Jagdterrier is a result of german breeders wanting a hunting breed with abilities that exceed the Black & Tan Terrier. Initial breeding resulted in two coat variations, smooth and rough. But subsequently, the smooth coat was being bred out, leaving what was described as a slape coat.
Jagdterriers were bred for hunting quarries such as badgers, foxes, and raccoons. But they’re also capable of chasing animals off premises, as well as animal tracking.
The breed is currently recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) within the terrier group, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) within the foundation stock service* group.
| Origin | Germany |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, Dark Brown, or Greyish Black, with Yellow-red clear markings at the eyebrows, muzzle, chest, legs, and at the base of the tail. |
| Height | avg. 33-40 cm (13″-16″) |
| Weight | M: 9-10 Kg (20-22 lbs) F: 7.5-8.5 Kg (17-19 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 yrs |
Japanese Terrier* (a.k.a. Nihon Teria, Kobe Terrier)
The Japanese Terrier is a native Japanese breed that came from crossing a Smooth Fox Terrier, brought to Nagasaki by Dutch merchants, and native Japanese dogs.
By the 1900s, several of this breed were seen roaming the streets of Kobe, and hence the Japanese Terriers were also once called Kobe Terriers.
The Japanese Terrier is currently being recognized within the terrier group by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), and within the foundation stock service* group by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
| Origin | Japan |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black Head with Tan markings, White Body with Black, Black & Tan markings |
| Height | avg. 26-33 cm (10″-13″) |
| Weight | avg. 4.5-5.5 Kg (10-12 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 13-15 yrs |
Kerry Blue Terrier (a.k.a. Irish Blue Terrier)
The National Terrier of Ireland, the Kerry Blue Terrier. Its ancestry, a bloodline of the Irish Terrier and the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, or a cross between the Bedlington Terrier and the Irish Wolfhound, remains a mystery til today.
The Kerry Blue Terrier was used in Ireland as a gun dog, as well as herding and vermin control. But has its beginning which was said to have been initially bred for fighting in the late 1800s.
| Origin | Ireland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, Blue, Blue & Black, Blue & Silver, Blue & Gray, Silver, Silver Blue, Slate Blue |
| Height | M: 46-48 cm (18″-19″) F: 44-46 cm (17″-18″) |
| Weight | M: 12-15 Kg (26-33 lbs) F: 10-13 Kg (22-29 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Kromfohrländer* (a.k.a. Kromi)
The Kromfohrländer is one of the youngest German breeds being internationally recognized since 1955. Though not considered a terrier, it does have terrier blood in its gene, coming from a cross between a Griffon-type breed and a Fox Terrier.
Kromfohrländer looks a lot like a terrier on the outside, but its temperament is said to be less aggressive. Originally categorized in the terrier group by the UKC, this extremely rare breed is now considered a companion breed and is also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the German Kennel Club (VDH).
| Origin | Germany |
| Group | Companion & Toy / Foundation Stock Service |
| Colour | White & Brown, White & Tan |
| Height | avg. 38-45 cm (15″-18″) |
| Weight | avg. 9-16 Kg (20-35 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 15-18 yrs |
Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terriers were bred to be fox hunters, dating as far back as the 1700s, making them one of the earlier terrier breeds. But unlike its other fox bolting compadres, the Lakeland Terrier was bred with the ability to kill its prey on the spot.
And because of its earlier working environment in the rocky mountains of the Lake District of England, the Lakeland Terrier has developed great stamina from running with the hounds during hunts.
Though its appearance resembles that of a Welsh Terrier, the Lakeland Terrier does differ with a smaller build and long legs.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Blue & Tan, Red, Wheaten, Red Grizzle, Liver, Blue, Black |
| Height | avg. 34-38 cm (13.5″-15″) |
| Weight | avg. 7-8 Kg (15-17 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Lucas Terrier
The Lucas Terrier was developed in England by crossing the Sealyham Terrier and Norfolk terrier to create a breed with a smaller head and softer shoulders than that of the Sealyham conformation.
The Lucas Terrier is primarily considered a house pet in the United Kingdom, but there are efforts being made in America to return this breed to its original status as a working dog, as well as participating in sporting trials.
| Origin | England/Scotland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Any Bi- or Tri-colour with White |
| Height | avg. 20-35 cm (8″-14″) |
| Weight | avg. 7.7 Kg (17 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | avg. 15 yrs |
Sporting Lucas Terrier
The Sporting Lucas Terrier breed, sharing the same origin as the Lucas Terrier, was further developed by crossing with smaller terrier breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier and various Fell Terriers.
| Origin | Scotland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | White & shades of Brown, Grizzle, Badger-Grey, Black, with or without Tan; shades of Brown, Black & Tan |
| Height | M: 28-33 cm (11″-13″) F: 25-30 cm (10″-12″) |
| Weight | M: 6.3-8 Kg (14-18 lbs) F: 5-6.8 Kg (11-15 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 10-15 yrs |
Manchester Terrier
Not to be mistaken for a Miniature Pincher, the Manchester Terrier is a cross-breed of the Black and Tan Terrier, and the ‘Snap Dog‘ (a precursor of the Whippet) is an excellent ratting dog.
Bred with longer legs than the Black and Tan Terrier, the Manchester Terrier is faster and its vermin control abilities were most valued in the rat-infested city of Manchester during the 19th century.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Blue & Tan, Red, Wheaten, Red Grizzle, Liver, Blue, Black |
| Height | avg. 38-40 cm (15″-16″) |
| Weight | avg. 5.4-10 Kg (12-22 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Miniature Schnauzer* (a.k.a. Zwergschnauzer)
With no British terrier blood in its genes, the Miniature Schnauzer is a unique terrier breed developed by crossing the Standard Schnauzer, Affenpinscher, and other smaller breeds. Hence, the Miniature Schnauzer also doesn’t carry the traditional terrier traits.
Due to its ratting background, the Miniature Schnauzer is classified as a terrier by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but falls under the Pinscher & Schnauzer group within the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), and the Utility group with Kennel Club (KC).
More information on the Miniature Schnauzer Breed.
| Origin | Germany |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Salt & Pepper, Black, and Black & Silver |
| Height | M: 30-36 cm (12″-14″) F: 28-33 cm (11″-13″) |
| Weight | avg. 5-9 Kg (11-20 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Norfolk Terrier
The drop-ear Norfolk Terrier has the stubbornness of a true terrier. Prior to being recognized as its own breed, the Norfolk Terrier was identified as a variation of the Norwich Terrier. Distinguishable only by their ears, the Norfolk Terrier and the Norwich Terrier are almost identical.
Originally bred as a barn dog, the Norfolk Terrier can work and generally gets along well with other dogs. Having the softest temperament among the terrier group, They can also live relatively well with other household pets. The Norfolk Terrier is also one of the smallest terriers in size.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Grizzle, Red, Wheaten, Red Wheaten |
| Height | avg. 23-25 cm (9″-10″) |
| Weight | avg. 5-6 Kg (11-13 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Norwich Terrier (a.k.a. Cantab, Jones Terrier, Trumpington)
Originating in the late 19th century in East Anglia, a rural region encompassing the town of Norwich in Norfolk County, the Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest members of the terrier group.
Bred for farm work and hunting vermins, the Norwich Terrier is an active, feisty, but rarely aggressive breed. They get along quite well with other dogs and house pets when introduced early.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Grizzle, Red, Wheaten |
| Height | avg. 24-25 cm (9.5″-10″) |
| Weight | avg. 5-5.5 Kg (11-12 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Patterdale Terrier (a.k.a. Black Fell Terrier)
The courageous Patterdale Terrier is a descendant of the Northern England smooth-coated fell terrier type, bred to control vermins that were preying on sheep.
Like many breeds, the Patterdale Terrier’s ancestry ain’t exactly clear. It has been seen in the 1930s as a slape-coated fell terrier, but since the 1960s, the breed started wearing the smooth hard coat that we see today.
The Patterdale Terrier is currently not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), American Kennel Club (AKC), and the Kennel Club (FC), but is recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA) as a member of the terrier group.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, Red, Chocolate, Grizzle, Black & Tan, Bronze; with either solid or some White markings on the chest and feet |
| Height | avg. 24-38 cm (10″-15″) |
| Weight | avg. 5-5.8 Kg (11-13 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Parson Russell Terrier
The Parson Russell Terrier, together with the Jack Russell and Russell Terrier, is the tallest of the three breeds that have descended from the Reverend John Russell fox terrier breeding program in 1819.
The main difference between a Parson Russell Terrier and the other two variants is in its size and shape, having a wider chest than a Jack Russell Terrier, and a more squarish body shape.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, Red, Chocolate, Grizzle, Black & Tan, Bronze; with either solid or some White markings on the chest and feet |
| Height | avg. 30-36 cm (12″-14″) |
| Weight | avg. 5-5.8 Kg (11-13 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Rat Terrier (a.k.a. American Rat Terrier)
The Rat Terrier, a descendant of a possible cross between the Old English White Terrier and a Smooth Fox Terrier, was being brought to the United States by British miners and other immigrants in the late 1800s.
Further developed in America by including breeds such as the Manchester Terriers, Whippets or Italian Greyhounds (for speed), and Beagles or other hounds (for hunting ability), the Rat Terrier quickly raised to fame as a farm and hunting dog in the early 1900s.
The name American Rat Terrier was said to be coined by Teddy Roosevelt after which his Rat Terrier successfully got rid of the rats in the White House.
| Origin | USA |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | White Black & Tan, Blue White & Tan, White & Chocolate, White & Blue, White & Blue Fawn, White, Chocolate & Tan, Black & White, Black Tan & White, Black White & Tan, Red White & Sable, White, White & Apricot, White & Black, White & Fawn, White & Lemon, White & Red, White & Silver, White & Tan |
| Height | avg. 25-46 cm (10″-18″) |
| Weight | avg. 4.5-11.3 Kg (10-25 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-18 yrs |
Russell Terrier (a.k.a. English Jack Russell Terrier, Irish Jack Russell Terrier)
The Russell Terrier, with a distinctively longer body than height, is the smallest of the three variants that have descended from the Reverend John Russell fox terrier breeding program.
The difference in their sizes was said to have resulted from the decline in the need for hunting dogs after the Second World War. Companionship and family dogs were more in demand, hence further crossbreeding took place with breeds such as the Chihuahuas, Welsh Corgis, and other smaller terrier breeds.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | White, White & Black, White & Tan, White Black & Tan, White Tan & Black |
| Height | avg. 20-30 cm (8″-12″) |
| Weight | avg. 4-7 Kg (9-15 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 yrs |
Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier was bred due to the need for a dog with hunting colours that can be easily distinguished from the foxes being hunted. Hence, breeds such as the Old English White Terrier, the Beagle, and the Bull Terrier were added to the mix.
The smooth and flat outer coat of the Smooth Fox Terrier is very different from its relative the Wire Fox Terrier, which has a wiry and hard outer coat.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | White, White & Black, White & Tan, White Black & Tan, White Tan & Black |
| Height | avg. 33-39 cm (13″-16″) |
| Weight | avg. 6.8-8.6 Kg (15-19 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Scottish Terrier (a.k.a. Scottie, Aberdeen Terrier)
The National Dog of Scotland, the Scottish Terrier was developed as a badger and vermin hunter in the Scottish Highlands. The breed dated back to as early as the 1700s and was initially referred to as a variant of the Skye Terrier.
Though unclear if the Scottish Terrier actually came from the now-extinct Scotch Terrier, it does share a common root with the West Highland White Terriers, both with origins tracing to the Blackmount region of Perthshire and the Moor of Rannoch.
| Origin | Scotland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, Brindle, Red Brindle, Wheaten, Black Brindle, Silver Brindle |
| Height | avg. 25 cm (9.8″) |
| Weight | M: 8.5-10 Kg (19-22 lbs) F: 8-9.5 Kg (18-21 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 11-13 yrs |
Sealyham Terrier (a.k.a. Daeargi Sealyham, Sealy)
The Sealyham Terrier was developed in the mid-19th century in Pembrokeshire, Wales, particularly for badger and otter hunting. Breeders wanted a visible white coat that was easily distinguishable, hence the Welsh Corgi, Fox Terrier, and the now-extinct English White Terrier were chosen for the development process.
With its elegant appearance, the Sealyham Terrier rose to stardom in the 20th century appearing in Hollywood movies and as pets of famous celebrities. But despite its popularity, it has been listed as one of the endangered native breeds by the Kennel Club (KC) since 2008.
| Origin | Wales |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | White, with Lemon, Tan, Black, and Badger Markings |
| Height | avg. 25-30 cm (10″-12″”) |
| Weight | M: 10-11 Kg (23-24 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 yrs |
Skye Terrier
One of the original terriers from the isles of Scotland, the Skye Terrier plays a major role in all development of terriers in Scotland, tracing back to possibly as far as the 14th century.
Contrary to its appearance, the Skye Terrier is a fearless fox and badger hunter, who’s known for its loyalty and devotion towards its owner. Its also listed as a vulnerable native terrier breed by the Kennel Club (KC) since 2005 with only 30 being born, and currently only 75 are registered in 2021.
| Origin | Scotland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, Cream, Cream Black Points, Dark Grey, Fawn, Grey, Light Grey, Silver, Silver Black Points |
| Height | avg. 23-25 cm (9″-10″”) |
| Weight | avg. 16-20 Kg (35-45 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 yrs |
Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier (a.k.a. Irish Wheaten Terrier, Yellow Terrier)
Claimed to be the ancestor of the Irish Terrier and the Kerry Blue Terrier, the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is a pure Irish breed. Formerly used as an all-around farm dog, as peasants were not allowed to own hounds or beagles, the Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers were versatile as herding, guarding, hunting, and gun dogs.
The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier has a soft silky coat, which differs from its other variant, the American Wheaten Terrier, which wears a much heavier and thicker coat.
| Origin | Ireland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Blonde, Brown, Wheaten |
| Height | M: 46-48 cm (18″-19″) F: 43-46 cm (17″-18″) |
| Weight | M: 16-18 Kg (35-39 lbs) F: 14-16 Kg (30-35 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Staffordshire Bull Terrier (a.k.a. Staffy)
Originated in Birmingham, England in the 1800s, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is another member of the bull baiting Bull and Terrier family, and the ancestor to the American Staffordshire Terrier.
The muscular build of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, though visibly smaller than an American Staffordshire Terrier, may still appear intimidating. But as a matter of fact, its affection and fondness for people actually makes it a very unsuitable guard dog.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black, White, Brindle, Fawn, Brindle & White, Black & White, Fawn & White, Blue, Red & White, Red, Blue & White |
| Height | M: 36-41 cm (14″-16″) F: 33-38 cm (13″-15″) |
| Weight | M: 13-17 Kg (28-37 lbs) F: 11-15 Kg (24-33 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 yrs |
Teddy Roosevelt Terrier (a.k.a. Teddies)
Up until 1999, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier was only known as the ‘Type B Rat Terrier’, the short-legged variant of the Rat Terrier. Contrary to the rumour that President Theodore Roosevelt was involved in the development of the breed, the name was only given in his honour. The President never did own a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, but he did coin the name for the American Rat Terrier.
Sharing similar traits and characteristics with the latter, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1999, and subsequently by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2016.
| Origin | USA |
| Group | Toy, Terrier |
| Colour | Any Bi- or Tri-colour with White |
| Height | avg. 20-35 cm (8″-14″) |
| Weight | avg. 7.7 Kg (17 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | avg. 15 yrs |
Tibetan Terrier* (a.k.a. Lhasa Terrier)
The Tibetan Terrier, ‘Holy Dog of Tibet’ with origins in Central Himalaya, is a watchdog and herding dog and is considered a symbol of good luck in Tibetan culture. The breed was first brought into England in 1930, and subsequently, the western variant of the Tibetan Terrier was developed.
In a genetic study of the Tibetan Terrier, the breed was found to be a basal breed for domestic dogs and belongs to the same branch as Afghan Hound, Basenji, Lhasa Apso, and Shi Tzu.
Initially classified within the terrier group, the Tibetan Terrier now falls under the Companion & Toy, Non-sporting, and Utility group with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), American Kennel Club (AKC), and the Kennel Club (KC) respectively.
| Origin | Tibet |
| Group | Companion & Toy / Non-sporting / Utility |
| Colour | Black, Black & White, Black White & Gold, Brindle, Gold, Gold White, Goldern Brindle, Sable, White |
| Height | avg. 35-43 cm (14″-17″) |
| Weight | avg. 8-14 Kg (18-30 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Toy Fox Terrier* (acronym T.F.T.)
A direct descendant of the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Toy Fox Terrier is a small athletic breed that was bred in America by carefully selecting breeds of smaller Smooth Fox Terriers, without crossing with other toy breeds.
The Toy Fox Terrier was registered under the Fox Terrier (Smooth) name during its development years from 1912 to the mid-1920s. In 1936 the breed officially adopted the Toy Fox Terrier name and was registered by the United Kennel Club (UKC) within the terrier group. The American Kennel Club (AKC) currently registers the breed within the toy group.
| Origin | USA |
| Group | Toy, Terrier |
| Colour | Tri-colour, Chocolate, White & Tan, White & Black |
| Height | avg. 20-28 cm (8″-11″) |
| Weight | avg. 1.6-3 Kg (3.5-7 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | avg. 15 yrs |
Treeing Feist Terrier
From the Southeastern mountains of the United States, the Treeing Feist Terrier is a feist breed developed as a low-maintenance dog to hunt and eliminate vermins. Often the result of crossing hunting hounds and terriers, the Treeing Feist Terrier was subsequently bred for performance and began hunting bigger games such as squirrels, raccoons, and rabbits.
The breed became increasingly rare when people started abandoning farmsteads and moving to the cities. At one point, devotees were gathered to prevent its extinction. The breed is being recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) as a member of the terrier group since 1998.
| Origin | USA |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black Tan & White, Chocolate Tan & White, Blue Tan & White |
| Height | avg. 30-45 cm (12″-18″) |
| Weight | avg. 5-13 Kg (12-30 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 yrs |
Valencian Rat Terrier (a.k.a. Valencian Ratonero, Gos Rater Valencià)
The Valencian Terrier was formerly used in hunting vermins in stables, as well as rats along the riverside villages of Albufera.
There’re several speculations about how the breed came about, with the main theory being a cross between the local breeds with the Fox Terriers of Great Britain. Though the exact origin is unclear, the existence of the breed since the 16th century has been verified.
Despite its long-existing history, the Valencian Terrier was only officially recognized in 2004 and has just registered with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 2022, and adopted the terrier name.
| Origin | Spain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Tricolor, Black & Tan, Brown & Tan, Brown & White |
| Height | M: 30-40 cm (12″-16″) F: 29-38 cm (11″-15″) |
| Weight | avg. 4-8 Kg (9-18 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Wire Fox Terrier (acronym W.F.T.)
Early traces of the Wire Fox Terrier may be dated back to the 1700s, in paintings of dog breeds that resembled the Smooth and Wire Fox Terrier. Known as the Rough-haired Terriers in those times, many huntsmen would have their own breed of terriers with different mixes, each residing in the various regions of England.
Contrary to its relative, the Smooth Fox Terrier’s smooth flat coat, the Wire Fox Terrier has a wiry outer coat that serves as protection during fox bolting. Both breeds, despite their likeness and once considered the same breed, are believed to have been developed separately.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Tri-color, Black & White, White & Tan |
| Height | M: 36-41 cm (14″-16″) F: 33-38 cm (13″-15″) |
| Weight | M: 7-9 Kg (15-20 lbs) F: 6-8 Kg (13-17 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 13-14 yrs |
Welsh Terrier (a.k.a. Welsh Black & Tan Rough Coated Terrier)
The Welsh Terrier is a courageous hunter of foxes, otters, and badgers. Bred for endurance and power to run alongside hounds, the Welsh Terrier has a broader build and a boxier head than a traditional Fox Terrier or Airedale Terrier.
The Welsh Terrier may very well be the oldest pure breed terrier that has come out of the valleys of Wales since 1450. The breed has been recognized, with established breed standards, by the Kennel Club (KC) in 1887, and the first two imports to America were also registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885.
| Origin | Wales |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Black Grizzle & Tan,, Grizzle & Tan |
| Height | avg. 38 cm (15″) |
| Weight | avg. 9 Kg (20 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
West Highland White Terrier (a.k.a. Westies)
Ranked as one of the most popular terrier breeds, the West Highland White Terrier was named after the rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands and was officially listed in 1907 at the Crufts dog show in England. Prior to that, the breed was referred to as the Poltalloch Terrier or the Roseneath Terrier.
Bred to hunt like the rest of the terrier family, the West Highland White Terrier is closely related to the Scottish Terrier and the Cairn Terrier, with a distinctive white coat that was propagated by Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch to prevent hunting accidents.
| Origin | Scotland |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Black Grizzle & Tan,, Grizzle & Tan |
| Height | avg. 25-28 cm (9.8″-11″) |
| Weight | avg. 7-9 Kg (15-20 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 yrs |
Yorkshire Terrier* (a.k.a. Yorkie)
The Yorkshire Terrier, one of the smallest terrier breeds, originated from the small town of Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, England. Developed from terrier breeds of Scotland, such as the Paisley Terrier (or Clydesdale Terrier) and Skye Terrier, the Yorkshire Terrier was bred to hunt and kill vermins in mines and mills during the industrial age.
Though terrier blood runs in its veins, the Yorkshire Terrier is classed within the toy group at the Kennel Club (KC) and American Kennel Club (AKC), while the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognizes it as a member of the terrier group.
| Origin | Great Britain |
| Group | Terrier |
| Colour | Black & Tan, Blue & Gold, Blue & Tan, Black & Gold |
| Height | avg. 17-20 cm (7″-8″) |
| Weight | avg. 2-3 Kg (4-7 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy | 11-15 yrs |
