Oscar
Humane Society of Imperial Valley • El Centro, CA
Terrier Dogs for Adoption
1,927 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,381–1,410 of 1,927 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.
1,927 Terrier dogs available — page 47 of 65
Argos
Argos is a feisty puppy who loves to play with the other dogs in his foster home. Based on his brindle coat and high energy he is likely a terrier or …
Needy Paws Rescue • St. Louis, MO
Spoons #1
Animal Rescue of the Rockies believes every pet should find a wonderful and caring home. To ensure Spoons #1 finds the best possible home, we ask you …
Animal Rescue of the Rockies • Aurora, CO
Wade
Neutered · Clever · Confident · Good with Dogs · Good on leash · Playful · Snuggly
Eastwood Ranch Foundation • Agoura Hills, CA
Butterscotch
Neutered · Athletic · Clever · Good with Dogs · Goofy · Playful · Snuggly · Good with Cats
Eastwood Ranch Foundation • Agoura Hills, CA
Flip Flop (I Have a Secret Crush!)
Adult-Only Home Preferred · Not Good with Cats · Single Dog Home
PAWS Atlanta • Decatur, GA
Mowgli
Yolo County Animal Services Shelter • Woodland, CA
Rex
Rex is a medium dog with an easy to care for coat! He previously did great living with other dogs and kids. He has high energy and knows `sit`. When h…
Denver Animal Shelter • Denver, CO
Boots
All HSDC, Humane Society of Dallas County, adoptable pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines upon adoption. The standard…
Dallas Pets Alive • Dallas, TX
Flannel
All HSDC, Humane Society of Dallas County, adoptable pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines upon adoption. The standard…
Dallas Pets Alive • Dallas, TX
Cue
Cue knows sit* Cue appears to be potty trained* Cue loves to play* Cue is doing well sharing a kennel with a male Terrier mix* Cue did well on his tem…
Moreno Valley Animal Shelter • Moreno Valley, CA
A480383
Oklahoma City Animal Welfare Division • Oklahoma City, OK
Coraline
The Animal Foundation - Las Vegas • Las Vegas, NV
Lola
San Antonio Animal Care Services • San Antonio, TX
Julie
Julie is a 3 month old female Terrier mix who weighs in at 14 pounds. This pup's adoption fee is $500. If you are still interested, please read more b…
Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL) • Wheaton, IL
Angus
Click here to learn how to adopt and submit your adoption questionnaire.
Oakland Animal Services • Oakland, CA
Skylar
Skylar has found her place at CVRR but would love to be at home soon. She has learned manners and is becoming quite the confident creature! If you are…
Central Valley Rescue Railroad • Lindsay, CA
Iris
Personality: playful, outgoing Breed: terrier mix Age: est DOB 3/31/26 Weight: Sex: female She loves people and is the sweetest cuddle buddy yo…
Coppers Dream • Sunnyvale, CA
Gulliver
Elmbrook Humane Society • Brookfield, WI
Terrier dogs by state
Other breeds
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.
