Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,923 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,831–1,860 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 62 of 65

Photo of Sable, adoptable Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium) in Dana Point, California

Sable

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium) FemaleMedium0 years

🐾 Sable Sable is a happy, affectionate little pup with the sweetest soulful eyes. She loves to be close to her people—whether it’s snuggling up for a…

Love All Animals • Dana Point, CA

Photo of Bianca, adoptable Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium) in Dana Point, California

Bianca

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium) FemaleMedium0 years

💕 Meet Bianca 💕 Bianca is a 9-week-old bundle of puppy love looking for a family to call her own! This sweet girl is everything you could want in a …

Love All Animals • Dana Point, CA

At Risk
Photo of Jessa, adoptable Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium) in Brooklyn, New York

Jessa

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium) FemaleMedium5 years

WAIVED ADOPTION FEE! Five years ago, we told Jessa her forever was coming. She got so excited for her meet and greet, and waited patiently for the fam…

Rescue City • Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Ravine, adoptable Terrier in Washington, District of Columbia

Ravine

Terrier MaleSmall2 years

RAVINE NEEDS A FOREVER HOME!!!! Name: Ravine Best Guess for Breed: Terrier mix Best Guess for Age: 2 years as of August 2026 SEX: Male Approximate Wei…

Lucky Dog Animal Rescue • Washington, DC

Photo of Lexi, adoptable Terrier in Mount Laurel, New Jersey

Lexi

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

Looking for a sweet, smart, and playful new best friend? Meet Lexi! At just 6 months old, Lexi is a mixed-breed puppy with a heart full of love and a …

One Love Animal Rescue • Mount Laurel, NJ

Photo of Pee Wee, adoptable Terrier in Sunnyvale, California

Pee Wee

Terrier MaleMediumYoung

Personality: calm, easy going ​​​Breed: terrier mix Age: est DOB 5/20/26 ​​Weight: ​​Sex: male Total people-pup — would rather be snuggled up next to …

Coppers Dream • Sunnyvale, CA

Photo of Rueben, adoptable Terrier in Sunnyvale, California

Rueben

Terrier MaleMediumYoung

Personality: calm, easy going ​​​Breed: terrier mix Age: est DOB 5/20/26 ​​Weight: ​​Sex: male The explorer of the group — not afraid to venture out a…

Coppers Dream • Sunnyvale, CA

Photo of Princess Peach, adoptable Terrier in oakland, Florida

Princess Peach

Terrier FemaleMediumBaby

Hi there! My name is Princess Peach, and while I may only have three legs, that doesn't slow me down one bit. In fact, I like to think it gives me ext…

Polka Dogz Pet REscue, INc. • oakland, FL

Photo of Lucielle, adoptable Terrier in Cranston, Rhode Island

Lucielle

Terrier FemaleSmall2 years

Age: approx 2 1/2 years old Weight: 28 lbs My adoption fee is $ 625 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast. Lucielle is a super sweet …

Small Dog Rescue of New England, Inc • Cranston, RI

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.