Terriers are feisty little dogs, that were originally bred to "go to ground" where they were to burrow and find vermin, says Animal Planet. This is something they excel at and if there is a ground squirrel, a mole, a rat or another rodent in your yard, it won't be there long if you have a terrier. That's their job and they take their job very seriously.
From the Latin word terra, meaning earth, terriers do love earth and digging, it's in their nature to dig. Energetic and mischievous, terriers come in all sizes from the tiny 7-pound Yorkshire Terrier to the big 60-pound Airedale Terrier. They may have different looks and size, but they are all highly intelligent and if you have the patience and a great sense of humor, training will be a great time for you both, says Dogtime.
In 2015, the AKC had 30 different terrier breeds, making this grouping as diverse as the people that love them, according to Dogster. While not for everyone, if you are a terrier person, you love the "clowns of the dog world" and find their stubbornness and energy just part of their charm.
Here is a list of the top terriers we love, see if you have what it takes to be a terrier owner.
5. Airedale terrier.
The largest of the terriers, Airedales are described as clever, courageous and friendly. Airedales are confident dogs that require an owner that can channel that energy with regular exercise. Around 60-lbs. they are big and sturdy and make excellent hiking companions. Get your puppy fix with this video of sweet, silly Airedale terrier pups:
4. Soft Coated Wheaton terriers.
The fourth most popular terrier and also the second largest at an average of 40 lbs. Wheatons have a softer coat giving them a teddy bear look, not the stiff wiry coarse coat most of the terrier group have. Wheaties are described as happy, friendly and just stubborn enough to remind you they're terriers, says AKC.
See sweet Furball the Wheaton terrier go from puppyhood to adult in a wonderful time line:
3. West Highland White Terriers.
The third favorite of the terrier group are thick-bodied, wiry little terriers with a happy, loyal, smart and entertaining personalities. They are very active and true terriers who are quick, curious and lively.
2. Miniature Schnauzers.
Mini Schnauzers are the second most popular terrier and Schnauzer people are as loyal to this breed as the dogs are to them. Miniature Schnauzers are known as friendly, smart and obedient with a medium energy level. Great family dogs, Schnauzers are known for their easy training and family friendly personalities.
1. Yorkshire Terrier.
he number one terrier breed should surprise no one, it's the Yorkshire terrier. Yorkies are sprightly, affectionate and tomboyish, according to AKC, meaning these tiny pocket-sized purse pooches pack some true terrier personality with their spunk. At an average of six to seven pounds, Yorkies are the smallest of the terriers and coveted loyally by their owners.
If you have the time to provide the required daily exercise for a terrier, can appreciate their hard headedness and spunk and want a fun dog that will keep you on your toes, you just may be a "terrier person."
