Terrier

A breed of dog, typically small and muscular, originally bred to hunt vermin. Terriers are generally characterized by their energetic, tenacious, and courageous personalities. They are often alert, lively, and can be highly intelligent. Various types exist, including those specifically developed for different terrains and quarry. Their coats vary from smooth to wiry, and they often possess a strong prey drive. Proper training and socialization are crucial due to their potential for independence and territorial behavior. The name 'terrier' derives from the Latin word 'terra', meaning earth, reflecting their historical role in digging and hunting.

Terrier meaning with examples

• The Jack Russell terrier, a bundle of energy, zipped across the field, relentlessly chasing after a fleeing squirrel. Its owner smiled, knowing this breed’s inherent hunting instincts were fully engaged. Bred for their tenacity, they are ideal working dogs, and their intelligence makes them surprisingly trainable despite their stubbornness.
• We watched the Scottish terrier, with its distinctive beard and eyebrows, stalk through the garden, its low-slung body perfectly adapted for navigating dense undergrowth. Their wiry coat helped protect them from the brambles, whilst they search for rodents and their characteristic fearless spirit made them a formidable hunter.
• Despite their small size, the Cairn terrier's bark echoed through the park, warning other dogs to stay away from their territory. Their territorial nature, developed over years of guarding their owner's property, is a common trait in the breed. They have become a popular pet due to their loyalty and friendliness.
• The owner was careful to ensure the Airedale terrier, the largest of the breed, had plenty of opportunities for exercise, understanding the need to channel their boundless energy. They need adequate activity, to avoid destructive behavior. They can excel in many activities if properly trained, owing to their cleverness.
• The family adopted a Yorkshire terrier, its long, silky coat gleaming in the sun, hoping to provide a loving home for the small dog, its tiny size and gentle nature belied its terrier heritage. Even with the delicate appearance, it retains a trace of its breeding, and needs early socialization and training.
• The owner carefully selected a variety of games and challenges to stimulate the Miniature Schnauzer's sharp mind, knowing this intelligent breed thrived on mental stimulation. Despite their smaller size, they require similar training and activity levels, though the needs are less than the bigger dogs.
• The West Highland White terrier, with its distinctive white coat, was a popular breed in its day, but their bold personalities make training necessary, it being a part of their temperament. They can be social and affectionate but early intervention is key to preventing stubborn tendencies.
• The Bull terrier strutted down the street, its muscular build a testament to its ancestry. Bred for strength and tenacity, they can be challenging to manage, and their prey drive demands extra caution around smaller animals. These dogs demand dedicated and experienced owners.
• The Lakeland terrier, with its shaggy coat and determined eyes, was a constant presence on the farm, always ready to pursue any perceived threat. Their independence means their personalities might mean that they will be harder to command, but the love is easily earned.
• The Border terrier, a compact and resilient dog, excelled in agility courses, its enthusiasm and adaptability showcasing its versatility. They have a working class mentality, and would take on any task their owners would set them, so require stimulation.