Terrier Dogs for Adoption

1,932 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 241–270 of 1,932 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.

1,932 Terrier dogs available — page 9 of 65

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Photo of Marley2, adoptable Terrier in Canton, Connecticut

Marley2

Terrier FemaleMedium0 years

Meet Marley2, the little black-and-white bundle of sunshine who is ready to wag her way straight into your heart! This adorable 6 month-old Terrier/mi…

Dog Star Rescue • Canton, CT

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Photo of Daniela, adoptable Terrier in Canton, Connecticut

Daniela

Terrier FemaleSmall2 years

Meet our darling, Daniela, who was initially rescued all the way from Puerto Rico with several other dogs. She is now ready to find a loving family to…

Dog Star Rescue • Canton, CT

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Photo of Tyson, adoptable Terrier in Abbeville, Louisiana

Tyson

Terrier MaleLarge2 years

Meet Tyson~ a King Cake + Cupid combo Tyson is a 2-year-old, 83 lb hunk of love who is ready to steal hearts and catch beads! This handsome guy has th…

Animal Aid for Vermilion Area • Abbeville, LA

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Photo of Glinda, adoptable Terrier in Dallas, Texas

Glinda

Terrier FemaleSmallest. up to 7 yrs

All HSDC, Humane Society of Dallas County, adoptable pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines upon adoption. The standard…

Dallas Pets Alive • Dallas, TX

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Photo of Moo, adoptable Terrier in Dallas, Texas

Moo

Terrier MaleMediumest. 1–7 yrs

All HSDC, Humane Society of Dallas County, adoptable pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines upon adoption. The standard…

Dallas Pets Alive • Dallas, TX

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Photo of Duff, adoptable Terrier in Dallas, Texas

Duff

Terrier MaleSmallest. up to 7 yrs

All HSDC, Humane Society of Dallas County, adoptable pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines upon adoption. The standard…

Dallas Pets Alive • Dallas, TX

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Photo of Ranger, adoptable Terrier in Mooresville, North Carolina

Ranger

Terrier MaleMediumBaby

Meet Ranger! At just 12 weeks old, Ranger has already earned the nickname “Energizer Bunny” from his foster family. He’s a playful, curious little guy…

Piedmont Animal Rescue • Mooresville, NC

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Photo of Anna, adoptable Terrier in Elmsford, New York

Anna

Terrier FemaleMediumYoung

Birthdate: 9/29/2025Breed: One of a kindWeight: 50 lbsMeet Anna! Anna is a fun-loving girl who's full of life and always ready for her next adventure!…

Paws Crossed Animal Rescue Inc. • Elmsford, NY

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Photo of Ricco, adoptable Terrier in Yreka, California

Ricco

Terrier MaleMedium6 years

Thank you for considering adopting a Rescue Ranch dog. While they are with us, each and every rescue dog receives the best of care in a loving and nur…

Rescue Ranch • Yreka, CA

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Photo of Milo, adoptable Terrier in Rockville, Maryland

Milo

Terrier MaleLarge4 years

Name: Mio Sex: Male Estimated Age: About 4 years old Best Guess for Breed: Terrier Mix Weight: About 57 lbs Lives With: Other dogs (and is great with …

Petey and Furends • Rockville, MD

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

Willow

Terrier FemaleMediumBaby

Meet Willow, a little bundle of joy with a heart as big as her personality! This sweet Terrier Mix is full of boundless energy, endless affection, and…

Animal Refuge Center • North Fort Myers, FL

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Photo of Olive, adoptable Terrier in Grafton, Wisconsin

Olive

Terrier FemaleSmallYoung

I am catching up on my vetting! I can go home with my forever family on September 25th! ** Updated: 9/4/26 Dog Name: Olive Sex: Female Estimated Breed…

Tail Waggers 911 • Grafton, WI

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Photo of Wyatt, adoptable Terrier in Grafton, Wisconsin

Wyatt

Terrier MaleSmallYoung

I am catching up on my vetting! I can go home with my forever family on September 25th! ** Updated: 9/4/26 Dog Name: Wyatt Sex: Male Estimated Breed: …

Tail Waggers 911 • Grafton, WI

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Photo of Billy, adoptable Terrier in Thousand Palms, California

Billy

Terrier MaleSmall0 years

Riverside County Animal Control - Coachella Shelter • Thousand Palms, CA

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Photo of Geppetto, adoptable Terrier in Woodland, California

Geppetto

Terrier MaleSmall1 year

Meet Geppetto, an 18-pound bundle of pure sweetness! Geppetto is truly one of the sweetest, friendliest little dogs you could meet. He's an absolute l…

Yolo County Animal Services Shelter • Woodland, CA

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Photo of Vanta, adoptable Terrier in Haw River, North Carolina

Vanta

Terrier FemaleMedium6 years

Meet Vanta! Some of the best friendships take a little time—and Vanta is worth the wait. Vanta can be a little shy when meeting new people, but once s…

Burlington Adoption Center • Haw River, NC

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.