Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,924 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,861–1,890 of 1,924 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.

1,924 Terrier dogs available — page 63 of 65

Photo of Alexas, adoptable Terrier in LEBANON, Connecticut

Alexas

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

Alexas is a terrier,hound mix that was born on 11/13/25 and ready to find her forever home. She is playful and curious puppy with the cutest wiggle bu…

East Coast Canine Rescue • LEBANON, CT

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

Opalite

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

OPALITE NEEDS A FOREVER HOME!!!! Name: Opalite Best Guess for Breed: Terrier mix Best Guess for Age: 9 months as of July 2026 SEX: Female Estimated We…

Lucky Dog Animal Rescue • Washington, DC

Photo of Pisces, adoptable Terrier in Elmsford, New York

Pisces

Terrier FemaleBaby

Birthdate: 05/12/2026Breed: One of a kindWeight: Still growing! Meet the Zodiac Puppies! The stars have aligned to bring you eight adorable puppies, e…

Paws Crossed Animal Rescue Inc. • Elmsford, NY

Photo of Phoenix, adoptable Terrier in Mooresville, North Carolina

Phoenix

Terrier FemaleMediumBaby

Phoenix is a lovebug in furry form. Nothing makes Phoenix happier than snuggling up with her favorite people. Whether it's curling up on the couch or …

Piedmont Animal Rescue • Mooresville, NC

Photo of Peaches, adoptable Terrier in Littleton, Colorado

Peaches

Terrier Female1 year

Peaches! This 15-lb terrier/Chihuahua mix is the definition of easygoing. Peaches has a calm, chill personality and is adjusting to the new world arou…

Paws on the Ground Colorado • Littleton, CO

Photos coming soon

Lana

Terrier FemaleX-Large0 years

Meet Lana! 🐾💕 At just 10 months old, Lana is a playful, exuberant pup with an easygoing personality and excellent manners. 🌟 She walks well on leas…

Animal Care Sanctuary • East Smithfield, PA

Photo of Bowie Jul 26, adoptable Terrier in Pacolet, South Carolina

Bowie Jul 26

Terrier MaleSmall0 years

Foster location: Dreamweaver Farms, Pacolet, SC Weight: 7.5 lbs as of 7/29/26 and headed for somewhere under 30 Height: 8 in at the shoulder now, we t…

Carolina Poodle Rescue • Pacolet, SC

Photo of Scotty, adoptable Terrier in Wetumpka, Alabama

Scotty

Terrier MaleMedium1 year

ADOPTION APPLICATION: https://elmorehumane.org/adoption-application-online-form2.html . We respond via email to your apps so please add hselco@bellsou…

The Humane Society of Elmore County • Wetumpka, AL

Photo of Ferb, adoptable Terrier in Raleigh, North Carolina

Ferb

Terrier Male0 years

'MOM... PHINEAS AND FERB ARE STARRING IN AN ADOPTION POST!' Ferb's contribution? "..." OK, maybe just a cautious tail wag. Like the quiet, half of eve…

Mitchell Mill Animal Hospital Rescue Inc • Raleigh, NC

Photo of Phineas, adoptable Terrier in Raleigh, North Carolina

Phineas

Terrier Male0 years

'MOM... PHINEAS AND FERB ARE STARRING IN AN ADOPTION POST!' Looks like today's adventure is finding a forever family. This little terrier mix may shar…

Mitchell Mill Animal Hospital Rescue Inc • Raleigh, NC

Photo of Sonny, adoptable Terrier in North Fort Myers, Florida

Sonny

Terrier MaleSmallYoung

Meet Sonny, a bundle of excitement with an even bigger heart! Sonny was surrendered by his previous owner for reasons unknown, and now he's hoping to …

Animal Refuge Center • North Fort Myers, FL

Photo of Leanne, adoptable Terrier in San Diego, California

Leanne

Terrier FemaleSmall3 years

Leanne is 3 years old and weighs 18 lbs. She’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Leanne is a stray rescue. If you would like …

Baja Animal Sanctuary • San Diego, CA

Photo of Jasper, adoptable Terrier in Woodland, California

Jasper

Terrier MaleSmall5 years

Sweet, loving Jasper - the ears! Loves fetch (returns mostly, too) and treats (good for training).Walks well on leash. Medium-level energy. Happily pl…

Yolo County Animal Services Shelter • Woodland, CA

Photo of Little-bit, adoptable Terrier in Turlock, California

Little-bit

Terrier Female2 years

Little-bit A tiny hero came into rescue, found with a severe injury and a leg that was badly damaged. Her labored breathing was a testament to the imm…

Kate's Furreka Rescue • Turlock, CA

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.