Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,930 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,231–1,260 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 42 of 65

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Photo of Cheerio, adoptable Terrier in Burlingame, California

Cheerio

Terrier MaleSmall0 years

Hello! I am Cheerio, a 5 month old, neutered male, Terrier mix who currently weighs about 14lbs. But I'm still a growing boy and could be around 30–35…

Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA • Burlingame, CA

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Photo of Nellsen, adoptable Terrier in Sandy, Utah

Nellsen

Terrier MaleSmall3 years

Meet Nellsen! Nellsen is a handsome 3-year-old, 12-pound terrier mix who is happiest when he’s right by your side. He absolutely loves people and will…

Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions • Sandy, UT

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Photo of Parker, adoptable Terrier in Spring, Texas

Parker

Terrier MaleSmall4 years

Parker is a sweet 4-year-old, 12-pound terrier mix who was surrendered when his family could no longer care for him. He loves cuddling with his people…

Yorkie Rescue Houston • Spring, TX

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Photo of Minnie, adoptable Terrier in Greenville, South Carolina

Minnie

Terrier Female0 years

Meet Minnie! Curly tail, check! Bat ears, check! New family…still waiting! Maybe you’ll be the right one for me!? Minnie is sweet, smart, and kind. Sh…

Lucky Pup Rescue SC • Greenville, SC

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Photo of Bella, adoptable Terrier in NEWPORT NH, New Hampshire

Bella

Terrier FemaleMedium1 year

Please welcome Bella to WWR! We want to thank our partners at operation kindness for helping this beautiful one year old gem. She required an FHO (lit…

Wags and Wiggles Rescue • NEWPORT NH, NH

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Photo of Serena, adoptable Terrier in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota

Serena

Terrier FemaleMedium2 years

Hi there, I’m Serena — your future cuddle buddy with the cutest wiggle butt in town! I’ll be honest… I can be a little shy when we first meet. New peo…

No Dog Left Behind • Brooklyn Center, MN

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Photo of Perdita, adoptable Terrier in Evansville, Indiana

Perdita

Terrier FemaleMedium4 years

Currently located at our Owensboro, KY location PERDITA IS READY FOR ALL THE HUGS! Meet Perdita, a 4-year-old Lab mix who came to us as a stray. We ma…

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

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Photo of Mitsy, adoptable Terrier in Doylestown, Pennsylvania

Mitsy

Terrier FemaleMediumYoung

Mitsy has become a longer term resident with us and we aren't sure why or how?!? This petite little girl is so cute and such a love bug we don't get i…

Almost Home Dog Rescue • Doylestown, PA

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Photo of Mimi, adoptable Terrier in Thousand Palms, California

Mimi

Terrier FemaleMedium2 years

Riverside County Animal Control - Coachella Shelter • Thousand Palms, CA

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.