Page 187 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

TERRIERS 187

TERRIERS

Tough, fearless, self-confident, energetic—a terrier can
claim all of these descriptions and more. The terrier group
takes its name from the Latin word terra (earth), referring
to the original use of various types of small dog as hunters
of underground-dwelling vermin, such as rats. However, some
Once a fighting dog, the Bull
modern terriers are large dogs, bred for different purposes. Terrier is now a family favorite

Many breeds of terrier originated in ground and also as guard dogs for with other dogs and pets. Hunting-type
the UK, where they were traditionally protecting flocks. The largest terriers of terriers also love to dig and can wreak
regarded as hunting dogs for the all include the Airedale Terrier, originally havoc in a yard if unsupervised.
working man. Some are named after bred for hunting otter, and the The modern breeds of those dogs
the regions they first came from: impressively built Russian Black Terrier, historically used for fighting are
Norwich Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, and which was specifically developed for now largely free from aggression
Lakeland Terrier. Others are known by military use and guard duties. and, when properly trained by an
the types of animal they used to hunt— In the 19th century, a different type experienced owner, are usually
for example, Fox Terrier and Rat Terrier. of terrier became popular. Crosses trustworthy with families.
Terriers are by nature quick to react between terriers and bulldogs
and show great persistence when on produced such dogs as the Bull Terrier, MIXED HISTORY
the track of quarry. They possess the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the Terriers have highly variable origins.
independent, some would say willful, American Pit Bull Terrier, breeds This Miniature Pinscher has Whippets
characters and are ready to stand their intended for the vicious and now in its ancestry.
ground against larger dogs. The dogs illegal sports
developed for hunting below ground, of pit-fighting and
including the much-loved Jack Russell bull-baiting. With
and Cairn Terriers, are small, sturdy, and their broad heads
short-legged. Terriers with longer and powerful jaws,
legs, such as the Irish Terrier and the these dogs suggest a
beautiful Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, close affinity with mastiffs
were once used for hunting above and are, in fact, likely to be
related to that group.
Most types of terrier are today
kept as pets. Intelligent and usually
friendly and affectionate, they make
excellent companions and watchdogs.
Because of their inherent traits,
terriers need to be trained and
socialized early to prevent problems

LIVELY COMPANION
The spunky Jack Russell is among the best
known of various small working terrier
breeds now enjoying popularity as pets.

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