Every Dog’s Chance

Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,926 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,441–1,470 of 1,926 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.

1,926 Terrier dogs available — page 49 of 65

Photo of Simba Hope, adoptable Terrier in Yardley, Pennsylvania

Simba Hope

Terrier • 5 years

Simba (and Sassy) Age: 5 years Breed: Terrier mix Sex: Male Size: 70 lb Status: Available About Simba (and Sassy) Seven months of watching families co…

Crossing Paths Animal Rescue • Yardley, PA

View profileContact shelter
Photo of Sassy Hope, adoptable Terrier in Yardley, Pennsylvania

Sassy Hope

Terrier • Female • 3 years

Age: 3 years Breed: Terrier mix Sex: Female Size: 70 lb Status: Available About Sassy (and Simba) Seven months of watching families come and go. Simba…

Crossing Paths Animal Rescue • Yardley, PA

View profileContact shelter
Photo of Sassy Hope, adoptable Terrier in Yardley, Pennsylvania

Sassy Hope

Terrier • Female • 3 years

Age: 3 years Breed: Terrier mix Sex: Female Size: 70 lb Status: Available About Sassy (and Simba) Seven months of watching families come and go. Simba…

Crossing Paths Animal Rescue • Yardley, PA

View profileContact shelter
Photo of Tate, adoptable Terrier / Retriever in Berea, Ohio

Tate

Terrier / Retriever • Male • 3 years

Experienced Handler Preferred · Housetrained · Foster To Adopt Available · Text 440-503-5228 (Melissa) to set up a meet and greet · Health Waiver

Berea Animal Rescue Friends • Berea, OH

View profileView Adoption Page ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Terrier dogs by state

California398Texas235Florida161Louisiana125North Carolina108Pennsylvania84South Carolina73Illinois58New York54New Jersey49Missouri42Indiana37

Other breeds

Pit Bull Terrier6644Labrador Retriever3819German Shepherd3651Mixed Breed2739Chihuahua1769Staffordshire Terrier1686Australian Cattle Dog1170Siberian Husky1036Shepherd961Husky763Boxer728Hound701

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.