Top 10 most popular terrier breeds

Terrier dogs are well known for their energetic, mischievous nature. Coming from the Latin word terra which means earth, terriers have long since been associated with their love of digging, making them natural hunters ideal for keeping vermin at bay. With over 30 different terrier dog breeds ranging in shape, size, and appearance, these popular pups definitely don’t have just one dictionary definition. So whether you’re about to dog sit a terrific terrier or you’re a pet parent who wants to learn more about the breed, we’ve scoured through the American Kennel Club’s list of the most popular dog breeds to find the top terrier breeds (and yes, they’re in order). 

The most popular terrier breeds

Yorkshire Terrier

Like most terriers, the affectionately known Yorkie was originally bred to hunt rats and other vermin. Things changed shortly after the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1885, when it emerged as one of the most popular of the small terrier breeds and became the favored companion of fashionable women. The Yorkshire Terrier is loyal and intelligent, and makes its presence known despite its size. They fare better in small apartments than many large terrier breeds, but that doesn’t mean you can skip their daily exercise - terriers are energetic breeds that need regular opportunities to let off steam. 

Boston Terrier 

With a distinctive tuxedo coat, compact stature, and expressive face, the Boston Terrier is the epitome of a gentleman’s best friend. Originating in, yes you guessed it, Boston, USA, the breed was developed by crossing the English Bulldog with the now-extinct English White Terrier. Known as the “American Gentleman”, this pint-sized powerhouse has a zest for life and is charming and intelligent in equal measure. Eager to please, sociable, and friendly, they are excellent students in obedience training and ideal family pets. As the name suggests, the Boston Terrier is right at home in the big city and makes the perfect sidekick no matter where you’re heading.

West Highland White Terrier

Given the tradition of affectionate nicknames, it’s only fitting that the wee West Highland White Terrier is fondly referred to as the Westie. These little dogs are thought to date back as far as the 17th century, when they were favored as hunting companions due to their easily distinguishable white coats. Brown button eyes peer inquisitively out of their snowy coats, which can withstand quite a bit of rugged adventuring despite the soft appearance. Their teddy bear looks aren’t just for show; Westies are both loyal and playful, making them ideal for families with small children. 

Scottish Terrier 

It’s only natural that the Scottish Terrier (aka the Scottie) has its roots in, well, Scotland. While those short little legs may not make them ideal jogging companions, Scotties make up for it with their spirited, courageous characters, and are most likely to be seen strutting their stuff around the park as they warn off squirrels with a feisty bark (which is far from an annoying yap, by the way). Instantly recognizable with their wiry coats and pointed ears, Scotties are known for being fiercely protective, playful, and the perfect partner in crime! 

Bull Terrier 

The unique-looking Bull Terrier has an egg-shaped snout, sharply pointed ears, and beady little eyes with a mischievous glint in them. Stocky and muscular, loyal and affectionate, Bull Terriers are always ready to mingle with anyone and everyone from the postman to the neighbor’s cat. Their goofy antics and unbridled enthusiasm make them the life and soul of the puppy party, and they’re sure to keep you entertained with their clownish behavior. They require minimal grooming so make the ideal pet for busy families, although they still need plenty of love and regular exercise. 

Airedale Terrier 

The Airedale Terrier, often referred to as the “King of Terriers”, is a regal and charismatic breed capable of being hunter, athlete, and companion all at the same time. Standing tall and proud, Airedales are the largest of the terrier family, and are known for their boundless energy and love of the great outdoors. They make fantastic adventure buddies, whether it’s hiking, running, or playing fetch in the park, and are also well known for their intelligence and ability to learn quickly. 

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, often simply called the “Wheaten” has an irresistibly soft, silky coat that’s more than worthy of the name. Almond-shaped eyes twinkle with intelligence and long hair around the eyes and mouth adds to their charm. Wheatens are known for their friendly, outgoing nature, and their playful personality and gentle disposition make them wonderful companions for families, children, and even other pets. These dogs are as intelligent as they are loving, making them eager students in obedience training and agility competitions. They thrive on mental stimulation and love nothing more than a good puzzle or a challenging game of fetch.

Cairn Terrier 

Know for the infamous role of Toto in The Wizard of Oz, Cairn Terriers are terriers through and through. Their rugged, weather-resistant double coats come in a range of colors, from sandy to brindle, and their bushy eyebrows and alert, intelligent eyes give them an adorable, puppy-dog look no matter what their age is. With a passion for playing and an enthusiasm for digging, they thrive on human interaction and love being part of the action. 

Russel Terriers

The Russell Terrier is a breed that’s big on personality and always ready for action. Their coats are often a mix of white with patches of black, brown, or tan, and can range from scruffy and wiry to smooth and sleek. These little bundles of energy are also incredibly intelligent and alert, and do best when they have activities and jobs to keep them busy. They may be small but they need lots of space to let off steam, so they’ll do better on a farm than in a small apartment in the city. 

Staffordshire Bull Terrier 

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or Staffy for short, has a reputation for being gentle and friendly despite its stocky build. Although they were originally bred for the sport of dog fighting, Staffys nowadays are often referred to as “nanny dogs” because of their natural affinity for children. They are affectionate, playful, and extremely faithful to their family, meaning they will love nothing more than following their favorite people around wherever they go. 

Terrier breed information 

Terrier breeds: appearance 

Although terriers are typically characterized by a strong and athletic build, they come in various shapes and sizes, from small terrier breeds like the Yorkie to the sturdy Airedale Terrier. Some, like the Jack Russell Terrier, fall somewhere in between. Their coats can be anything from wiry and weather-resistant to enviably long and silky, and colors may include black, brindle, white, tan, and various combinations of these. Terriers often have distinct ears, and their eyes tend to be expressive, alert, and inquisitive. 

Terrier breeds: personality 

No matter the breed, most terriers have a tendency to be feisty, mischievous, and energetic. They are also highly intelligent and are therefore easy to train, but some may require a little more work than others due to their stubbornness. With hunting and digging in their blood, terriers are often excellent escape artists and generally need to be given plenty of opportunities to let off steam to prevent boredom.

Terrier breeds: care

Terriers are energetic dogs that require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Walkies in the countryside, lots of playtime, and positive reinforcement training are all great ways to keep your terrier mentally and physically stimulated. Some terriers can be territorial and may show aggression toward other dogs, so early socialization and exposure to various people, animals, and environments from a young age is essential. 

While many of the most popular terrier dog breeds have at least something in common, remember that each terrier has its own set of unique characteristics that makes it special. From the energetic Russell Terrier to the regal Airedale, the world of terriers is filled with individual quirks and oodles of joy!