Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,932 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 481–510 of 1,932 below.

About adopting a Terrier

When a shelter lists a dog as "Terrier" without a more specific name, it usually means a small to medium dog with a wiry or smooth coat and the alert, busy manner that terriers share. The label covers dozens of breeds and crosses, from tiny ratting dogs to stocky bull types, so it is a starting point rather than a description.

What most terriers have in common is drive. They were bred to chase, dig, and hold their ground, and a young one brings that intensity to fetch, squirrels, and any toy that squeaks. Training works best when it feels like a game, and recall around small animals is a lifelong project for many. Puppies can be stubborn, and adults often know exactly what they want.

Household fit depends on which terrier traits the individual dog inherited. Some are cuddly lap dogs with occasional bursts of mischief, others need serious daily activity. Cats and small pets are a real question to raise. Ask the shelter or rescue what they have seen of the dog's prey drive, how it handles other dogs, and what training it has already had.

1,932 Terrier dogs available — page 17 of 65

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Photo of Sookie, adoptable Terrier in St. Louis, Missouri

Sookie

Terrier FemaleLarge2 years

Crate trained. Potty trained. Dog friendly. Would benefit from having a doggie playmate in the house. is enamored with cats. Has met a few kittens and…

Needy Paws Rescue • St. Louis, MO

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Photo of Honey, adoptable Terrier in Candler, North Carolina

Honey

Terrier Female0 years

Attention: This is a courtesy posting only! This pet is NOT available through Mountain Pet Rescue. Please do NOT contact MPR for information about the…

Mountain Pet Rescue Asheville • Candler, NC

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Photo of Blythe, adoptable Terrier in Lindsay, California

Blythe

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

Blythe is a sweet young dog who loves to lie around but snaps into action when outside in the yard. She enjoys her sister, Lilith, likes to play with …

Central Valley Rescue Railroad • Lindsay, CA

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Photo of Lilith, adoptable Terrier in Lindsay, California

Lilith

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

If you are interested in adopting this dog, please complete an online application at www.cvrr.us Due to high demand we anticipate multiple application…

Central Valley Rescue Railroad • Lindsay, CA

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Photo of Honey,.,, adoptable Terrier in San Diego, California

Honey,.,

Terrier FemaleSmall2 years

Meet Honey – A Brave Survivor Ready for Love Sweet Honey has been through more than any dog should. She was rescued from a heartbreaking hoarding situ…

Baja Dog Rescue • San Diego, CA

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Photo of Zinni, adoptable Terrier in Washington, District of Columbia

Zinni

Terrier FemaleSmall6 years

ZINNI NEEDS A FOREVER HOME!!!! Name: Zinni Best Guess for Breed: Terrier mix Best Guess for Age: 6 years as of August 2026 SEX: Female Approximate Wei…

Lucky Dog Animal Rescue • Washington, DC

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Photo of Sage, adoptable Terrier in St. Louis, Missouri

Sage

Terrier FemaleLarge1 year

This sweet, affectionate girl loves couch cuddles, toys, and making her own fun by shredding them! She’s crate trained and enjoys spending time in the…

Animal Protective Association of Missouri • St. Louis, MO

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Photo of Guapa, adoptable Terrier in Hilton Head, South Carolina

Guapa

Terrier FemaleLarge0 years

Meet Guapa! This beautiful 3-year-old Terrier mix is 45 lbs of sweetness, sass, and sunshine wrapped into one amazing pup! With her gorgeous tan coat …

Hilton Head Humane Association • Hilton Head, SC

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Photo of Mercy Jul 26, adoptable Terrier in Pacolet, South Carolina

Mercy Jul 26

Terrier FemaleSmallest. 6–7 yrs

Foster location: Dreamweaver Farm, Pacolet, SC Estimated age: Approximately 9–10 years old Weight: 15.7 lbs Height: About 12" at the shoulder Spayed/N…

Carolina Poodle Rescue • Pacolet, SC

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Photo of Bonita Hope, adoptable Terrier in Yardley, Pennsylvania

Bonita Hope

Terrier Female3 years

Bonita Age: 3 years Breed: Terrier mix Sex: Female Size: 56 lb Status: Available Meet Carolyn or "Bonita" as we call her. This gorgeous mama has offic…

Crossing Paths Animal Rescue • Yardley, PA

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Photo of Felicia Hope, adoptable Terrier in Yardley, Pennsylvania

Felicia Hope

Terrier Female2 years

Age: 2 years Breed: Terrier mix Sex: Female Size: 40 lb Status: Available Felicia is such a sweet and kind soul! She has so much love to give, but she…

Crossing Paths Animal Rescue • Yardley, PA

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Photo of Felicia Hope, adoptable Terrier in Yardley, Pennsylvania

Felicia Hope

Terrier Female2 years

Age: 2 years Breed: Terrier mix Sex: Female Size: 40 lb Status: Available Felicia is such a sweet and kind soul! She has so much love to give, but she…

Crossing Paths Animal Rescue • Yardley, PA

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Photo of Zoe, adoptable Terrier in San Diego, California

Zoe

Terrier FemaleMediumYoung

Meet Zoe — The One Who Was Left Behind Zoe was born at the sanctuary, surrounded by her siblings. One by one, they were given the chance to leave, tra…

Recate Fenix aka Rescue Fenix • San Diego, CA

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Photo of Jimothy, adoptable Terrier in Lindsay, California

Jimothy

Terrier MaleSmall2 years

Jimothy is a happy, energetic young dog. He recently had a spa day. See his picture below. If you are interested in adopting this dog, please complete…

Central Valley Rescue Railroad • Lindsay, CA

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Photo of Chloe, adoptable Terrier in North Fort Myers, Florida

Chloe

Terrier FemaleMediumYoung

Meet Chloe, an adorable little sweetheart with so much love to give! Chloe came to ARC along with two other dogs from LaBelle Animal Control and is no…

Animal Refuge Center • North Fort Myers, FL

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Photo of Houston, adoptable Terrier in Unionville, Pennsylvania

Houston

Terrier MaleMediumest. 1–10 yrs

BONDED WITH WHITNEY AND MUST BE ADOPTED TOGETHER. 10 years old. Gentle, calm, very socialized. Spayed/neutered, UTD vaccinations, microchipped, wormed…

Lamancha Animal Rescue • Unionville, PA

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Photo of Tyna, adoptable Terrier in Washington, District of Columbia

Tyna

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

TYNA NEEDS A FOREVER HOME!!!! Name: Tyna Best Guess for Breed: Terrier mix Best Guess for Age: 9 weeks as of 7/22/26 SEX: Female Estimated Weight (pup…

Lucky Dog Animal Rescue • Washington, DC

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Photo of Lucky, adoptable Terrier in Riverside, California

Lucky

Terrier MaleSmall0 years

Riverside County Animal Control - Riverside Shelter • Riverside, CA

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Photo of Morticia, adoptable Terrier in Turlock, California

Morticia

Terrier Female2 years

Meet Morticia, an enchanting 2-year-old female Terrier mix with a delightfully loyal heart and a spunky, playful spirit. Don't let her spooky name foo…

Kate's Furreka Rescue • Turlock, CA

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Photo of Alibi, adoptable Terrier in Greenville, South Carolina

Alibi

Terrier Female0 years

Meet Alibi! Alibi used to be a shy girl but as each day goes by, her courage is growing. She loves her foster family, especially her small human siste…

Lucky Pup Rescue SC • Greenville, SC

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Photo of Alias, adoptable Terrier in Greenville, South Carolina

Alias

Terrier Female0 years

Meet Alias, This sweet girl is equal parts sweet and....sweet! She loves her big dog friends and loves to be spoiled by her foster family. She is crat…

Lucky Pup Rescue SC • Greenville, SC

Adopting a Terrier — FAQ

What breeds fall under the "Terrier" label at a shelter?

The label can cover Jack Russell, rat, cairn, Yorkshire, Boston, and bull-type terriers along with countless crosses. Shelters use it when the dog looks terrier-like but no single breed stands out. Ask staff which type they suspect, since a Yorkie mix and a bull terrier mix are very different dogs.

Are Terriers good with cats?

Many terriers have a strong chase instinct, so cats and small pets can be a challenge. Some individuals live peacefully with cats, especially when raised together, but the label alone should make you cautious. Ask the shelter whether the dog has been cat-tested and how it reacted.

Are Terriers hard to train?

Terriers are not hard to train so much as easily bored and quick to decide their own idea is better. Short, fun sessions with real rewards keep them engaged. Recall around wildlife is the toughest skill, and a long line is a sensible tool during the learning phase.

How do I adopt a Terrier?

Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Every Dog's Chance simply gathers listings in one place so they're easier to find.

Are Terrier dogs a good fit for first-time adopters?

Many Terrier dogs — especially adult dogs who are already house-trained — can be a great match for first-time owners. Each dog's profile and the shelter or rescue caring for them can tell you about that dog's individual energy level, training, and personality before you apply.

How much does it cost to adopt a Terrier?

Adoption fees vary by shelter and rescue, but typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a health check. Open any dog's profile and contact the organization directly for their current fee and what it covers.

Are Terrier dogs good with children or other pets?

It depends on the individual dog more than the breed alone. The shelter or rescue caring for each dog can tell you about their history with kids, cats, and other dogs. Many organizations offer meet-and-greets to make sure the match is right for everyone before you commit.

Can I foster a Terrier instead of adopting?

Many shelters and rescues offer a foster program, sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path. Fostering a Terrier gets them out of a kennel and into a calm home, which is a great way to see if the match feels right before committing. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is an option.

What should I expect in the first weeks after adopting a Terrier?

Most dogs have a brief adjustment period — a few days to a couple of weeks — as they settle into a new home. A consistent routine, a comfortable place to rest, and patience make the transition easier for both of you. The shelter or rescue can tell you what to expect from the specific dog you're adopting.