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.
A high-resolution photograph captures a Miniature Bull Terrier with a white coat and a brown patch over one eye, sitting on a dirt forest path with an alert expression.

The Miniature Bull Terrier is a bold, playful, and affectionate breed known for its distinctive egg-shaped head and clownish personality. A smaller version of the Standard Bull Terrier, the Miniature is equally spirited and thrives on human companionship. This breed suits active households looking for a fun-loving, loyal companion with a mischievous streak.

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.

The Border Terrier is a plucky, affectionate working terrier with a harsh, weather-resistant coat. Compact and game, yet cuddly at home—great for active families.

Rafeiro do Alentejo with a thick gray, white, and brindle coat sitting on a dirt trail in a forest, looking calm and steady with a gentle gaze.

The Rat Terrier is an energetic, intelligent, and versatile small-to-medium terrier breed known for its exceptional hunting ability, adaptability, and affectionate nature. Once a staple on American farms for pest control, Rat Terriers are now beloved as loyal family companions who excel in agility, obedience, and active play. They thrive in homes that can provide daily exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of time with their people.

Yorkshire Terrier with a silky tan and blue coat sitting on a dirt path surrounded by green grass and trees, looking alert and calm.

The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” is a compact and confident toy breed beloved for its silky coat, charming personality, and fearless spirit. Originally bred for catching rats in 19th-century England, Yorkies have evolved into affectionate lap dogs and loyal companions. Despite their petite frame, they carry a big-dog attitude — alert, spirited, and sometimes bossy. This breed thrives in apartments or homes where they receive consistent attention, grooming, and positive reinforcement training.