Terriers are all different, yet have some strong breed instincts

Looking into the temperament of terriers 

Which terrier is right for you?
From inquisitive little guys to the more aggressive and assertive ones, terrier dogs have a wide spectrum of temperaments and dispositions. Amongst these various characteristics there is a terrier to suit every owner. Take care because as we are seeing, some can be very mischievous while others display distinct hunting abilities. Not all terriers are suitable for all homes.

In times past
In the past, terriers were primarily bred to help hunters catch vermin: otters, foxes, rats and the like. Newer breeds though tend to be bred for softer temperaments, so they are now sometimes included in the companion and toy breeds. The boston terrier, below, makes a lovely companionship dog. This dog was developed in America and is sometimes not considered a true terrier.

A Boston terrier Photocredit morgueFile

As with many other dog breeds, terriers have diverse characteristics that distinguish one type from another. Some owners report terriers to be faithful companions and are always ready to protect their home. Many dogs from this breed are distrustful of strangers...people and dogs.....and can  be somewhat 'assertive' if they think someone is invading their patch.

Attack or protect?
This instinct to attack or protect probably stems from the earlier breeds which were originally used in dog fights. But since the banning of this sport, dog breeders and generally aiming to produce more docile dogs for homes. Some notable terriers in this category this disposition are the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Airedale Terrier and the Bedlington Terrier.

Terriers respond well to training
One of the major features terrier dogs have is their capability to respond well to training. They have a  natural intelligence which makes extremely inquisitive and therefore destructive if left to their own devices.  Many terrier types need lots of activities and exercise to challenge them mentally and use up some of their boundless energy. Obedience training is a must for an energetic terrier.

The most social breeds of terriers, for example the wheaten terrier, should be given lots socialising opportunities as they grow and mature. Other, such as the bull terriers will often try to dominate other dogs when they have come of age.

Bull terrier Photo credit morgueFile

Who's the toughest?
Surprisingly, some of the smallest terriers are among the toughest. Take the case of the Cairn terrier. With it's relatively small size and stocky build, the Cairn terrier is a vermin hunter with strong hunting and chasing instincts. However, they are loyal and protective of their families, and friendly to everyone they meet.

Terriers have strong hunting instincts.
Many dogs of this breed still retain the true terrier instincts of hunting. This means that they may not do so well with other, smaller family pets, rabbits, guinea pigs etc because they see them as prey. While some traits have been softened due to selective breeding, some typical terrier behaviors can manifest whenever the opportunity arises. The neighborhood cat passes by? Off goes the terrier, thanks to it's strong vermin hunting instinct. Yet, they can still make lovely pets for the right family.

There are many things to think about and different aspects to look at when choosing a terrier for your family.