TERRIER GROUP
Breed Examples
AIREDALE | AUSTRALIAN TERRIER | BORDER TERRIER | CAIRN | FOX TERRIER | IRISH | JACK RUSSELL | KERRY BLUE | LAKELAND | MANCHESTER | MINIATURE SCHNAUZER | NORFOLK TERRIER | NORWICH | PATTERDALE | SCOTTISH TERRIER | SOFT COATED WHEATEN | WEST HIGHLAND WHITE | YORKSHIRE TERRIER
WHAT WE BRED THEM FOR
In order to rid our settlements of everything from rats to foxes and badgers, we designed a breed courageous to the point of insanity. Since the 1300s, terriers have been employed to eradicate rodents and other pests with unrelenting perseverance.
Before you read on ...
These group pages introduce you to ten newly described dog groups based on the latest science. Knowing what type of 'job' is in your dog's DNA can offer valuable insights into the type of life they'd most enjoy.
Treat this as a guide and a starting point for further research into the breed of dog to best suit you and your lifestyle. You'll find information specific to individual breeds here.
Note: this isn't a guarantee of how any individual dog will behave in future.
WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH A TERRIER
Dynamic
They have a big, fun, bold and witty personality.
Independent
They're not particularly clingy and know how to entertain themselves.
Always Ready
At the drop of a hat, they're ready for action.
WHY THEY CAN BE HARD TO LIVE WITH
One-Track Minded
When they set their sights on something, getting their attention can be difficult.
Got a Thing for Little Critters
They can be a danger to animals they consider vermin.
Hyperactive
You may wonder if they're turbocharged with the amount of energy they have!
YOU MAY NEED COACHING TO HELP WITH
- Getting their attention
- Managing behaviour when walking on lead
- Excessive barking in the house or garden
- Digging, stealing 'stuff' (and destroying it)
- Predatory behaviour toward other animals
- Obsessive spinning or tail-chasing
- Competitive or bossy with other dogs.
YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY
Exercise their brains and their bodies with complex activities, puzzles and other challenges – and be mindful of instant reactions to any excitement going on around them.
Don't get mad, get smart about their training. Work with them to show them how to get what they want in a way that's socially acceptable to you!
Have patience and a sense of humour (you'll need them).
