Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,932 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 841–870 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 29 of 65

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Photo of Mac, adoptable Terrier in Abbeville, Louisiana

Mac

Terrier MaleLarge1 year

Mac is not your average pup—he's a one-year-old blend of brains and energy, with the strength and smarts of a German Shepherd and the playful spirit o…

Animal Aid for Vermilion Area • Abbeville, LA

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Photo of Sunny, adoptable Terrier in Sussex, New Jersey

Sunny

Terrier MaleMediumest. 1–7 yrs

Sunny Needs a Hero This young 1 year old, 30 pounds Terrier mix boy has been through a super tough first year that reads like one of those rescue stor…

Critter Companion Rescue • Sussex, NJ

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Photo of Layla, adoptable Terrier in Jackson, Mississippi

Layla

Terrier Female2 years

Friendly, loves playing with her friend Casey Jones( another dog at the rescue), & loves going outside to walk.

Animal Rescue Fund of MS • Jackson, MS

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Photo of Mia Feral, adoptable Terrier in Pipe Creek, Texas

Mia Feral

Terrier FemaleSmall2 years

This sweet girl came to us a year ago as a feral dog. After working with her daily, she is a great dog! It just took some extra love for a while. She'…

Sierra's K9 Rescue and Rehab • Pipe Creek, TX

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Photo of Kya, adoptable Terrier in Hartselle, Alabama

Kya

Terrier FemaleSmallYoung

Looking for a fun-loving and adorable new companion? Look no further than Kya! This young female pup is as affectionate as she is curious, friendly, f…

Morgan County Humane Society • Hartselle, AL

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Photo of Noe, adoptable Terrier in Pipe Creek, Texas

Noe

Terrier MaleSmall2 years

Meet Noe – your future adventure buddy and best friend! If you're looking for a dog who will make every day a little brighter, Noe is ready to meet yo…

A Doggie 4 You • Pipe Creek, TX

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Photo of Georgie, adoptable Terrier in Pipe Creek, Texas

Georgie

Terrier MaleSmall2 years

Meet Georgie – The Life of the Party! Name: Georgie Breed: Terrier Mix Age: Approximately 2 years Gender: Male Adoption Fee: $300 Apply at: www.adoggi…

A Doggie 4 You • Pipe Creek, TX

At Risk
Photo of Jazzy 2094, adoptable Terrier in Studio City, California

Jazzy 2094

Terrier MaleSmall1 year

Jazzy’s journey hasn’t been easy—but his growth has been nothing short of incredible. He came from a heartbreaking hoarding situation and eventually l…

Wagmor Pets • Studio City, CA

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Photo of Snoopy, adoptable Terrier in San Diego, California

Snoopy

Terrier MaleMedium2 years

Meet Snoopy! Snoopy is an adorable Baja mutt who happened to make eye contact with the right people. A couple was walking home and happened to come ac…

Animal Rescuers Without Borders • San Diego, CA

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Photo of Arlo, adoptable Terrier in 133 Hilltop Rd Sprakers NY 12166, New York

Arlo

Terrier MaleMedium2 years

Arlo is a handsome 2 year old male all american mutt. He's 60 pounds of love and goofiness. Arlo has been calling Ayres home for quite a while, but he…

Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter, Inc • 133 Hilltop Rd Sprakers NY 12166, NY

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Photo of Metro, adoptable Terrier in Herndon, Virginia

Metro

Terrier MaleMedium2 years

MEET METRO Say hello to Metro, a two-year-old Pittie mix who is absolutely bursting with love, personality and charm! This sweet, people loving boy is…

Fancy Cats Rescue Team • Herndon, VA

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Photo of Cali, adoptable Terrier in Germantown, Ohio

Cali

Terrier FemaleMedium3 years

Hi my name is Cali! I’m scruffy, silly and full of fun loving energy. I’m a busy girl but I’m professionally trained and come with my training and too…

Adopt A Pit Rescue Inc • Germantown, OH

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Photo of Juicy, adoptable Terrier in Herndon, Virginia

Juicy

Terrier FemaleMedium4 years

Meet Juicy! Looking for a girl who is up for playing, taking a walk or run with you, rolling in the grass, or just relaxing by your side? Well, look n…

Fancy Cats Rescue Team • Herndon, VA

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Photo of Gimlet, adoptable Terrier in Greenville, South Carolina

Gimlet

Terrier Female1 year

Meet Gimlet! Meet Gimlet! I’m a happy-go-lucky puppy looking for a forever family to love on. I would love an active family or a canine sibling to run…

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.