Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,926 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,621–1,650 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 55 of 65

Photo of Batgirl, adoptable Terrier in Canton, Connecticut

Batgirl

Terrier FemaleMedium1 year

Known as an ally and counterpart to Batman, Batgirl comes onto the scene with much fanfare and we can see why. Our Batgirl is no stranger to the spotl…

Dog Star Rescue • Canton, CT

Photo of Scooby, adoptable Terrier in St. Augustine, Florida

Scooby

Terrier MaleSmallBaby

Meet Scooby! Scooby is an adorable 5-month-old, 20-pound puppy who has already overcome quite a lot in his young life. He was found injured on the str…

Ayla's Acres No-Kill Animal Rescue • St. Augustine, FL

Photo of Leviathan, adoptable Terrier in Evansville, Indiana

Leviathan

Terrier MaleMediumBaby

Currently located at our Evansville, IN locationCan you open your heart and home to this adorable rescue dog? Fostering is a rewarding experience that…

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

Photo of Simba, adoptable Terrier in Phoenix, Arizona

Simba

Terrier MaleSmallBaby

Simba is a tiny, spunky 10-week-old terrier puppy with the sweetest little personality! He is happy, playful, cuddly, and full of puppy fun. Simba lov…

Adopt A Dog Rescue • Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Acorn, adoptable Terrier in Bellevue, Washington

Acorn

Terrier MaleSmall0 years

Meet Acorn! This adorable, scruffy little fella will make the best companion. He has a wonderful temperament - he loves to play with his four legged f…

Saving Great Animals • Bellevue, WA

Photo of Valerie, adoptable Terrier in Greenville, South Carolina

Valerie

Terrier Female2 years

Meet Valerie! Valerie did all she could to keep her and her 7 puppies alive while they were left to fend for themselves under a camper in a junkyard. …

Lucky Pup Rescue SC • Greenville, SC

Photo of Domino, adoptable Terrier in Savannah, Missouri

Domino

Terrier FemaleMediumYoung

Hi, my name is Domino. I’m a fun-living little girl that can’t wait to play with you! You might notice I’m missing an eye. When I showed up at M’Shoog…

M'Shoogy's Famous Emergency Animal Rescue • Savannah, MO

At Risk
Photo of Baxter, adoptable Terrier in Seattle, Washington

Baxter

Terrier MaleMedium0 years

Animal Information: Baxter was brought into the Stanislaus shelter by a citizen who had had an accidental litter of 11 puppies. His 10 brothers and si…

Dog Gone Seattle Rescue • Seattle, WA

Photo of Piggy, adoptable Terrier in Greenville, South Carolina

Piggy

Terrier Female0 years

Meet Piggy! Piggy definitely lives up to her name! She loves exploring the yard, chewing on sticks and leaves, and then coming inside for cuddles. She…

Lucky Pup Rescue SC • Greenville, SC

Photo of Andy, adoptable Terrier in Greenville, South Carolina

Andy

Terrier Male1 year

Meet Andy! Hi there! I’m Andy, a 1-year-old mixed breed pup looking for my forever family. I currently weigh about 58 pounds, and I’m fully grown! I’m…

Lucky Pup Rescue SC • Greenville, SC

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.