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Terrier Dogs for Adoption
1,923 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,801–1,830 of 1,923 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.
1,923 Terrier dogs available — page 61 of 65
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Sabastian
Randolph County Humane Society • Elkins, WV
Apollo
Meet Apollo* Apollo* is a 6-month-old puppy that will be a great lap dog. He is very sweet and will make a great companion.
My Zouy Rescue • Corning, AR
Pistachio
Meet Pistachio! He is a small mixed breed puppy who is also about 11 months old. He was found abandoned on the side of the road with his brother Peety…
I.C.A.R.E. Dog Rescue • Corona, CA
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Jellyfish
Meet Jellyfish! 🪼 Hi! I’m Jellyfish—a 1-year-old, 40-pound bundle of wiggles, love, and questionable personal-space boundaries. I arrived at ACS in M…
Animal Care Sanctuary • East Smithfield, PA
Bean
Small but mighty, Bean is ready to wiggle his way right into your heart! This 8-pound tan and black Terrier mix is full of playful puppy energy and lo…
Hilton Head Humane Association • Hilton Head, SC
Nova
1 years old (estimated) Spayed Female Has lived with other dogs and kids No known experience with cats Meet Nova, a sweet, vocal, and adventure-ready …
Humane Society of Jefferson County • Jefferson, WI
Lady
Ready for puppy classes · Eager to please · Friendly · Good with Dogs · Good with Kids
Oregon Dog Rescue • Portland, OR
Fuji
Good with Dogs · Ready for training classes · Shy · Adult-Only Home Preferred
Oregon Dog Rescue • Portland, OR
Nadia
Adult-Only Home Preferred · Not Good with Cats · Single Dog Home
Antietam Humane Society • Waynesboro, PA
Prudence - 060511U
Heartworm Negative · Microfilaria Negative · Spayed · Dog of the Week
Tupelo-Lee Humane Society • Tupelo, MS
Willow - 021302U
Spayed · Treated For Heartworms · Featured Pet
Tupelo-Lee Humane Society • Tupelo, MS
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.
