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Terrier Dogs for Adoption
1,930 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,201–1,230 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 41 of 65
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Sampson
Riverside County Animal Control - Riverside Shelter • Riverside, CA
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Matthew
Meet Matthew Matthew is a 3-year-old Terrier mix with the sweetest soul. Rescued from Downey Shelter, this little boy has experienced more heartbreak …
Melita's Dream Animal Rescue • Woodland Hills, CA
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A826215
San Antonio Animal Care Services • San Antonio, TX
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Butterfinger Candy Litter (Trixie mom)
This whole family was rescued from the shelter ** The adoption fee is $400, which covers food, vetting, microchip and the spay/neuter surgery performe…
Pawfect Match Rescue • Holly Springs, NC
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Fern
Fern may be the small one of her group but her personality makes up for it! She is so much fun and loves to run and play with her friends. She is a pu…
Easy's Dog Shelter • Tracy City, TN
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Tully
This sweet girl was found as a stray and has not been claimed. She is estimated to be about one year old. She gets along well with other dogs but may …
Furry Feet Rescue Inc. • Walnutport, PA
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Bear
Meet Bear... the calmest and most sweetest guy you'll ever meet. He is literally the definition of a "Bear hug". He is 10 weeks old and 31 flavors of …
Paws Across Pittsburgh • Springdale, PA
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Nochecita
Meet Nochecita — but her friends call her Noche! Noche is an almost 7-month-old girl who is spayed, potty trained, crate trained, leash trained, and j…
REACH Rescue, Inc • Mundelein, IL
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Rock
The Animal Foundation - Las Vegas • Las Vegas, NV
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Oreana
Oreana is a fine one year old Terrier mix (a bit of Scottie, perhaps?) with an equally fine personality. At only 15 pounds, she holds her own when pla…
Crossing Paths Animal Rescue • Yardley, PA
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Hudson
Los Angeles County Animal Control - Downey • Downey, CA
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A5800850
Los Angeles County Animal Control - Lancaster • Lancaster, CA
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Emma
Oklahoma City Animal Welfare Division • Oklahoma City, OK
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A171341
Bakersfield Animal Care Center • Bakersfield, CA
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Jack
San Antonio Animal Care Services • San Antonio, TX
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Spidey
To sponsor my trip to WI, go to www.tailwaggers911.com for more info! ***I am able to go home to my forever family right from transport!! You get a 5 …
Tail Waggers 911 • Grafton, WI
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Lulu
Los Angeles County Animal Control - Castaic • Castaic, CA
Terrier dogs by state
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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.
