Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,930 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,141–1,170 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 39 of 65

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Photo of Ralph, adoptable Terrier in Hillside, Illinois

Ralph

Terrier MaleYoung

Ralph was found as a local spray in the suburbs, was not chipped and why his owners didn't come looking for him and take him home is beyond our unders…

Magnificent Mutts Rescue • Hillside, IL

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Photo of Rummy, adoptable Terrier in Hillside, Illinois

Rummy

Terrier MaleBaby

The "Fun & Games gamers" of 8 tiny terriers are sweet, sassy and special! They were born in rescue in July and they do well with other dogs, cats, bir…

Magnificent Mutts Rescue • Hillside, IL

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Photo of Domino, adoptable Terrier in Hillside, Illinois

Domino

Terrier MaleBaby

The "Fun & Games gamers" of tiny terriers are sweet, sassy and special! They were born in rescue in July and they do well with other dogs, cats, birds…

Magnificent Mutts Rescue • Hillside, IL

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Photo of Rudy, adoptable Terrier in Cranston, Rhode Island

Rudy

Terrier MaleSmall1 year

Age: approx 1 years old Weight: 11 lbs My adoption fee is $699 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast. If you serious about adopting, …

Small Dog Rescue of New England, Inc • Cranston, RI

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Photo of Willow, adoptable Terrier in Lindsay, California

Willow

Terrier FemaleSmall4 years

Willow is a happy dog who loves nothing more than to run the yard like a warden. She has an authority like a mom that the other tiny dogs mostly obey …

Central Valley Rescue Railroad • Lindsay, CA

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Photo of Roadie, adoptable Terrier in Claremore, Oklahoma

Roadie

Terrier MaleSmallBaby

Okie Pet Rescue okiepetrescue@gmail.comokiepetrescue.org An application must be completed and approved after a comprehensive review. Adoptions include…

Okie Pet Rescue • Claremore, OK

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Photo of Mateo, adoptable Terrier in Normal, Illinois

Mateo

Terrier MaleSmall1 year

Meet Mateo, a 1-year-old Terrier mix weighing in at a pint-sized 15 pounds. This adorable little guy seems to have mastered the art of being happy, fr…

Wish Bone Canine Rescue • Normal, IL

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Photo of Monte Cristo, adoptable Terrier in Duluth, Minnesota

Monte Cristo

Terrier Male0 years

Meet Monte Cristo — Part of the Sandwich Litter! Meet Monte Cristo, one of the adorable puppies from the Sandwich Litter! Monte is a sweet, slightly s…

PJ's Rescue • Duluth, MN

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Photo of Raven, adoptable Terrier in Riverside, California

Raven

Terrier FemaleSmall0 years

Riverside County Animal Control - Riverside Shelter • Riverside, CA

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Photo of Sparkle, adoptable Terrier in Rutherfordton, North Carolina

Sparkle

Terrier FemaleMediumBaby

If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoo…

Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue • Rutherfordton, 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.