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.
American Staffordshire Terrier with a muscular build and short brindle coat sitting on a wooded path, looking alert and confident with upright ears.

The American Staffordshire Terrier, affectionately known as the AmStaff, is a muscular and affectionate breed with a heart as big as its frame. Known for its loyalty, courage, and confidence, the AmStaff forms deep bonds with its family. Often misunderstood, these dogs are intelligent and eager to please when trained with positive reinforcement. With proper socialization and consistent leadership, they can be excellent family dogs. Their compact, muscular build and smooth coat add to their signature look. This breed thrives in homes where they are included as part of the family and given plenty of physical and mental stimulation.

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.

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.

Lakeland Terrier sitting on a forest path, wiry golden coat with alert expression, shallow depth of field, centered portrait.

The Lakeland Terrier is a compact, courageous earthdog—game, witty, and highly portable. Great for active owners who enjoy training, hiking, and low‑shed grooming via hand‑stripping.

A high-resolution photograph captures a Glen of Imaal Terrier with a shaggy gray coat sitting calmly on a dirt forest path, looking directly at the camera with a composed expression.

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a sturdy, low-to-the-ground terrier with a calm disposition and strong work ethic. Originally bred for hunting and farm duties in Ireland’s Wicklow Mountains, Glens are known for their quiet tenacity and affectionate nature. They're ideal for families seeking a less vocal, moderate-energy terrier that still retains classic terrier courage and charm—perfect for rural or suburban homes with space to explore.