Terrier Dogs for Adoption
1,926 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,651–1,680 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 56 of 65
Molly
The Animal Foundation - Las Vegas • Las Vegas, NV
Savannah's Litter: Oscar
Name: Oscar Sex: Male Estimated Age: 6 weeks old (as of 8/30) Best Guess for Breed: Terrier Mix Weight: About 4 lbs (as of 8/30) Good With: Dogs, cats…
Petey and Furends • Rockville, MD
Benny
San Antonio Animal Care Services • San Antonio, TX
Chino
San Antonio Animal Care Services • San Antonio, TX
China
San Antonio Animal Care Services • San Antonio, TX
Bee Brown
Bee Brown is a 2 year old terrier mix. He is about 20 pounds and a sweet boy. He is neutered, up to date on vaccines, microchipped and heartworm negat…
BARKS (Byram Animal Rescue Kindness Squad • Stanhope, NJ
Sprout
This dog is available to meet by appointment only. Sprout is a 2-year-old terrier mix weighing 25 pounds who is looking for a patient and understandin…
Oakland Animal Services • Oakland, CA
Jack
Jack is a 1 year old neutered male Terrier Mix weighing only 10 lbs. Check out his cute feather duster tail. We are still getting to know him. He is l…
Volunteers for Animals • Batavia, NY
North (NY-Sarah)
Interested in this dog? Your new pet is fostered in Smyrna, NY - Contact Sarah (call or text) at 908-745-9191 or you can email her at sarah@eastcoasta…
East Coast Adoption Agency • SHERBURNE, NY
Nolan (NY-Sarah)
Interested in this dog? Your new pet is fostered in Smyrna, NY - Contact Sarah (call or text) at 908-745-9191 or you can email her at sarah@eastcoasta…
East Coast Adoption Agency • SHERBURNE, NY
Fluffy (NY-Sarah)
Interested in this dog? Your new pet is fostered in Smyrna, NY - Contact Sarah (call or text) at 908-745-9191 or you can email her at sarah@eastcoasta…
East Coast Adoption Agency • SHERBURNE, NY
Vela
Birthdate: 03/01/2026Breed: One of a kindWeight: Still growing! Vela Vela is a sweet, playful pup with an adventurous spirit and a contagious zest for…
Paws Crossed Animal Rescue Inc. • Elmsford, NY
Carlota
Meet Carlota – Our Puerto Rican Princess Looking for Her Forever Home! Carlota is a 42 lb petite 1–2‑year‑old mama dog came all the way from Puerto Ri…
Island Dog Adoption Network • Virginia Beach, VA
Lady
Companion Animal Alliance • Baton Rouge, LA
Knight
Companion Animal Alliance • Baton Rouge, LA
Nine
Companion Animal Alliance • Baton Rouge, LA
Charlie
Companion Animal Alliance • Baton Rouge, LA
Scruffer
Companion Animal Alliance • Baton Rouge, LA
Toby Maguire (Underdog)
Louisiana SPCA • New Orleans, LA
Sussudio (NLOL Training)
Louisiana SPCA • New Orleans, LA
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.
