Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,932 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 571–600 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 20 of 65

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Photo of Baby G, adoptable Terrier in Evansville, Indiana

Baby G

Terrier FemaleSmallYoung

Currently located at our Evansville, IN locationMeet Baby G (Gigi) Some stories tug at your heart, and Baby G's is one of them. Born in 2023, this bea…

It Takes A Village No-Kill Rescue • Evansville, IN

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Photo of Jude, adoptable Terrier in Abbeville, Louisiana

Jude

Terrier MaleLargeYoung

Jude is the total package — big, handsome, young, and bursting with happiness. His goofy smile, airplane ears, and constantly wagging tail make it imp…

Animal Aid for Vermilion Area • Abbeville, LA

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

Dumpling

Terrier FemaleLarge2 years

Dumpling is a 2-year-old, 48 lb white terrier mix who lives up to her name by being the sweetest little thing. She’s affectionate, playful, and always…

Hilton Head Humane Association • Hilton Head, SC

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Photo of Bert, adoptable Terrier in Crystal, Minnesota

Bert

Terrier MaleSmall3 years

Come meet Bert!! I’ve been waiting for my person or people that I can snuggle with, sleep with, and give kisses to. I am an affectionate and loyal min…

Redemption Road Rescue • Crystal, MN

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Photo of Max, adoptable Terrier in Plainfield, Illinois

Max

Terrier MaleSmall1 year

This handsome tan Terrier mix (who is just about a year old) is looking for his perfect match, and it might just be you! ✨ Max is a friendly, people-l…

Starfish Animal Rescue • Plainfield, IL

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Photo of Teddy, adoptable Terrier in Rockville, Maryland

Teddy

Terrier FemaleSmall1 year

TEDDY IS A COURTESY POST - IF INTERESTED, EMAIL INFO@PETEY&FURENDS.ORG Name: Teddy Sex: Female Estimated Age: About 1.5 years old Best Guess for Breed…

Petey and Furends • Rockville, MD

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Photo of Z-Lee, adoptable Terrier in Rutherfordton, North Carolina

Z-Lee

Terrier FemaleMedium1 year

This is a courtesy post. This pet is not at Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue. Please do not contact Heart of the Foothills about this dog. Contact…

Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue • Rutherfordton, NC

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Photo of Clyde, adoptable Terrier in Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Clyde

Terrier MaleLarge3 years

Clyde is in Wisconsin!!! This boy traveled this weekend and is hanging out with Rebekah at @ruffacademy dog training! Clyde is a handsome 3 ish yr old…

PAWS UP PET RESCUE INC • Sheboygan, WI

Urgent Need
Photo of Mars, adoptable Terrier in Milton, Florida

Mars

Terrier FemaleMedium1 year

Meet Mars! Mars stole our hearts after we found her wandering the streets. We weren't looking to add another dog to our home—we simply wanted to get h…

Amazing Grace Bully Rescue • Milton, FL

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Photo of Truffles, adoptable Terrier in Coldwater, Michigan

Truffles

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

Hi, my name is Truffles, I'm a, 35 pound 8 month old female terrier mix. I was found as a stray and was very skinny and was a little afraid. People we…

Project Hope Animal Rescue • Coldwater, MI

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Photo of Bianca, adoptable Terrier in Dana Point, California

Bianca

Terrier FemaleMediumBaby

Meet Bianca Bianca is a 9-week-old bundle of puppy love looking for a family to call her own! This sweet girl is everything you could want in a puppy—…

Love All Animals • Dana Point, CA

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Photo of Morgan, adoptable Terrier in San Diego, California

Morgan

Terrier MaleSmall0 years

Meet Morgan, Melly and Milly! This siblign trio was born in ensenada Mexico in a home who owns the parents. A little chiweenie /rat tarrier looking ma…

Animal Rescuers Without Borders • San Diego, CA

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Photo of Abe, adoptable Terrier in Abbeville, Louisiana

Abe

TerrierMedium0 years

Meet Abe—also known as Abraham, AyeBee, or (when he’s feeling extra mischievous) Havoc. At around 8 months old, this lovable goofball is equal parts e…

Animal Aid for Vermilion Area • Abbeville, LA

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Photo of Rue, adoptable Terrier in MIDWAY, Utah

Rue

Terrier FemaleMedium2 years

Meet Rue (aka Chicken) ❤️ Border Terrier Mix | 3 Years Old | Fully Vetted Some dogs walk right into your heart. Others quietly tiptoe in... and someho…

Mountain Mama Pyrs and Pups • MIDWAY, UT

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Photo of Damian, adoptable Terrier in Elmsford, New York

Damian

Terrier MaleBaby

Birthdate: 10/20/2017Breed: One of a kindWeight: 45 lbsDamian is a well-mannered sweetheart with an irresistibly cute nose and an adorable personality…

Paws Crossed Animal Rescue Inc. • Elmsford, NY

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Photo of Ruby, adoptable Terrier in Abbeville, Louisiana

Ruby

Terrier FemaleMedium3 years

Ruby has the kindest eyes and the most beautiful brindle coat — but it’s her gentle soul that really steals your heart. This sweet 3-year-old girl can…

Animal Aid for Vermilion Area • Abbeville, LA

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Photo of Sarge, adoptable Terrier in Abbeville, Louisiana

Sarge

Terrier MaleMediumYoung

Meet Sarge Sarge may look strong and striking on the outside—but inside, he’s a shy, sensitive soul who’s still learning that the world can be kind. A…

Animal Aid for Vermilion Area • Abbeville, LA

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.