Terrier Dog BreedsMost terrier dog breeds go underground for their game. They hunt rabbits, moles, rats and all kinds of burrowing critters. If they can't fit into a hole, they will dig the object out.
Airedale 
photo by chk72158
This breed originated in Britain and is the largest of the terrier dog breeds. He was used to hunt large game all over the world in the 1800's. The Airedale is a big dog with a long head and dark eyes. The ears are short and V shaped. The coat is black and tan, double, wiry with a soft undercoat. Frequent brushing and possibly a trip to the groomer to neaten him up may be required. He is a great protector and loves family but may not get on well with small animals. Size is from 22-24 inches and weighs 40-50 pounds.
Merlin, photo courtesy of
the-proper-pitbull.com
Of U.S. origin, the Pit Bull has had a lot of bad press lately. He is the result of breeding bulldogs to terriers and used as a guard dog and hunter. Later on he was introduced as a fighting dog. This is a medium sized dog, very strong with a large angular head and broad muzzle. The coat is short and easy to manage. Proper genetics and experienced owners make this dog a fun loving part of the family. Pitbulls have been known to be aggressive with other animals. Size is 20-22 inches and weight 40-60 pounds.
Sonny, photo by bluekittypan
This breed originated in Scotland and worked finding badgers, fox, rats and other nasty critters. The Carin Terrier is a small dog, very solid with short legs. His ears are small and pricked, the coat double with wiry outer hair. Brushing a few times a week is in order. A happy, friendly little dog, he needs affection and loves his family. He gets along with children and other pets. I believe a famous Cairn Terrier was one of the stars in the "Wizard of Oz". Remember Toto? Size 9-10 inches, weight 12-14 pounds.
photo by senecabud
The origins of this breed come from Germany. It was used on farms to keep rats at bay in the late 19th century. This dog is a small version of the Giant Schnauzer. He is a solidly built dog with a squarish head, small eyes and V shaped ears. The coat is double with wiry outer hair. The face has hairy eyebrows and a beard. He is intelligent and alert and eager to please. He interacts well with people and other animals and you will find him a great watchdog. Size 12-14 inches, weight 15-18 pounds.
photo by sobre.perros
The "Westie" originated in Scotland as hunter of rats, fox and other undesirable animals in the mid 1800's. A small, sturdy dog he has a round head, large, bright eyes and a cute face. The coat is white and double, with a hairy mustache around the muzzle. The Westie is a great family dog, happy and friendly. He can be independent but is very loyal. Size is 10-12 inches with a weight of 18-20 pounds.
If you choose one of these small terrier dog breeds, you may find them digging in the garden going after mice, moles or what have you. Don't be too upset, they are only doing what they were bred for. They will also burrow. So if you are looking all over the house for your pet, check out that lump under the blankets or the laundry. Chances are you will find your pet.
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