Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,930 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,051–1,080 of 1,930 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.

1,930 Terrier dogs available — page 36 of 65

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Photo of Bando, adoptable Terrier in Redwood City, California

Bando

Terrier MaleSmall0 years

Hi, I’m Bando, a little pup with a whole lot of love to give! I am attentive and eagerly waiting for a loving home where my curious spirit can shine. …

Pets In Need • Redwood City, CA

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Photo of Sheldon, adoptable Terrier in Wetumpka, Alabama

Sheldon

Terrier MaleMedium1 year

ADOPTION APPLICATION: https://elmorehumane.org/adoption-application-online-form2.html . We respond via email to your apps so please add hselco@bellsou…

The Humane Society of Elmore County • Wetumpka, AL

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Photo of Gwen, adoptable Terrier in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Gwen

Terrier FemaleSmall0 years

Meet Gwen! Gwen is a 6.5 month old, spayed 15 pound little island girl who is growing into such a sweet companion. She is settling into life beyond th…

Island Dog Adoption Network • Virginia Beach, VA

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

Prancer

Terrier MaleLarge2 years

Looking for a dog who’s equal parts handsome, hilarious, and heart-melting? Well, Prancer is ready to prance right into your life! This 2-year-old, 58…

Hilton Head Humane Association • Hilton Head, SC

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Photo of Sierra, adoptable Terrier in Georgetown, Kentucky

Sierra

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

Meet Sierra an 8 month old female Terrier mix weighing only 26.6lbs. This cutie pie can be fairly timid when she meets new people, but also loves ever…

Scott County Animal Care and Control • Georgetown, KY

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Photo of Greta, adoptable Terrier in The Woodlands, Texas

Greta

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

Greta is the easygoing, even-tempered sweetheart of the bunch. She loves attention and is happiest when she's got someone to shower it on her, but she…

Operation Pets Alive • The Woodlands, TX

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Photo of Nala, adoptable Terrier in Wetumpka, Alabama

Nala

Terrier FemaleMedium1 year

ADOPTION APPLICATION (animal description is further down): https://elmorehumane.org/adoption-application-online-form2.html . We respond via email to y…

The Humane Society of Elmore County • Wetumpka, AL

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Photo of Angie, adoptable Terrier in Wetumpka, Alabama

Angie

Terrier FemaleMedium1 year

Please read ALL below where you will find answers about the pet, our adoption fees and how to do our adoption application! Pet Description: Angie is a…

The Humane Society of Elmore County • Wetumpka, AL

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Photo of PR 49 Bohr, adoptable Terrier in Glen Allen, Virginia

PR 49 Bohr

Terrier MaleMediumBaby

The Henrico Police Animal Shelter is accessible by appointment only. Animals available for adoption can be viewed online at petfinder.com or adoptapet…

Henrico Police Animal Shelter • Glen Allen, VA

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

Limerick

Terrier Female0 years

Limerick is a 6.5-month-old Terrier mix that weighs in at a perfect 23 pounds of fun, love, and puppy antics. She's ready to rhyme her way right into …

Hilton Head Humane Association • Hilton Head, SC

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

Pluto

Terrier MaleLarge0 years

Pluto is a 11-month-old terrier mix with a gentle soul and a heart full of sweetness! He can be a little shy at first, especially in new situations, b…

Hilton Head Humane Association • Hilton Head, SC

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Photo of Toby, adoptable Terrier in Mooresville, North Carolina

Toby

Terrier MaleLarge3 years

TOBY DESERVED BETTER THAN A LIFE ON A CHAIN. For the beginning of his life, Toby’s world was only as big as the chain around his neck. At just 3 years…

Piedmont Animal Rescue • Mooresville, NC

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Photo of Calypso, adoptable Terrier in Candler, North Carolina

Calypso

Terrier FemaleBaby

Calypso is a 9 pound puppy, born June 25, 2026. She will likely be big when fully grown. Calypso is spayed, up to the date on vaccines, dewormed, mirc…

Mountain Pet Rescue Asheville • Candler, NC

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.