Terrier Dogs

Feisty, clever companions with big personalities and bold energy

Terriers—from the spirited Jack Russell to the determined Airedale - are bold, clever, and game for adventure. They require consistent training, enrichment, and clear boundaries. Canadian families should plan for weather‑smart outings and regular grooming for wire‑coated varieties.

Airedale Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier, and Norfolk Terrier sitting on a rock in a green Canadian meadow with a wooden fence, representing Terrier dog breeds.

The Bedlington Terrier is a graceful, spirited terrier with a hallmark ‘lamb-like’ look and a surprisingly athletic core. Known for minimal shedding and a hypoallergenic reputation, they suit owners who enjoy regular professional grooming and brisk daily exercise.

Japanese Terrier sitting on a forest path, white body with black-and-tan head markings, centered full-body portrait with soft green bokeh.

The Japanese Terrier is a compact, smooth‑coated companion terrier—alert, lively, and people‑focused. A rare breed that fits apartment life with daily walks and engaging training.

A photograph of a Cairn Terrier shows the small, sturdy dog with a wiry coat sitting attentively on a dirt trail surrounded by a lush green forest.

The Cairn Terrier is a hardy, big-hearted Scottish earthdog—game, clever, and endlessly cheerful. Compact and weatherproof with a wiry jacket, Cairns love brisk walks, scent games, and couch time with their people. If you’re wondering “Are Cairn Terriers good apartment dogs?”—yes, with daily exercise and bark management. “Do Cairn Terriers shed?”—low to moderate, lowest when hand-stripped (clipping softens the coat and can increase visible shed).

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier with a wavy cream-colored coat sitting on a dirt trail in a forest, looking cheerful with its tongue out.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a cheerful, affectionate, and spirited Irish terrier breed, celebrated for its silky, wavy, wheaten-colored coat and joyful personality. Originally bred as a versatile farm dog, the Wheaten excels as a companion for active families, bringing enthusiasm, loyalty, and a playful sense of humor into the home.

Norwich Terrier with a wiry reddish-brown coat sitting on a dirt trail in a forest, looking alert and cheerful with its tongue out.

The Norwich Terrier is a spirited, affectionate, and sturdy little dog with a big personality packed into a small frame. Known for their pricked ears, wiry coat, and ever-wagging tail, these terriers are among the smallest working terrier breeds but have the heart and determination of a much larger dog. They make devoted family companions, adapt well to various living situations, and thrive in homes that can provide daily exercise, training, and companionship.