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Terrier Dog Breeds

Terriers are a specific group and type of dog that were originally bred to dig and hunt for prey like foxes, moles, badgers, and rats. Their name originates in the Latin word ‘terra’ and means ‘earth’ – although some people joke that the word terrier actually comes from the word terror!

There are many sizes and shapes of breeds in the terrier group but there’s one thing terriers typically have in common…their feisty, mischievous personality and energetic nature. Terriers are highly intelligent and trainable,and are suited for people with patience and a great sense of humour.

To make it easier for you to find your perfect terrier, we have put together a comprehensive list of the most popular terrier dog breeds in Australia.

You will find comprehensive information about each terrier dog breed and can learn more about their history, characteristics, temperament, common conditions and lots of other interesting facts to help guide you through the process of choosing the right dog!

Another great option is to try our Breed Selector, which help matches you with your most compatible breeds based on your lifestyle. Take the quiz.

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Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is the largest of all terrier breeds. The breed is tall and sturdy with a muscular body and covered in a thick, course coat of fur.

American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffy, American Staffordshire Terrier or Amstaff is a very muscular and energetic medium-sized breed of domesticated dog with a short silky coat and a highly loyal and courageous temperament.

Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier (a.k.a. “Aussie”) is one of the smallest terrier breeds. It is sturdy, short-legged and has a long head with triangular, erect ears
and dark brown eyes.

Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is a small powerful, fearless dog that loves to hunt and dig. He is a good natured, high energy, intelligent and loyal.

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is an American breed of domesticated dog, small to medium-sized with a muscular and heavy-set appearance similar to the English terrier breeds.

Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier is one of the oldest Terrier breeds.  This little terrier is originally from the Scottish Islands where it was originally used as a working dog. 

Fox Terrier

The Fox Terrier is a small sized dog that comes in two varieties: Smooth Fox Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier.

Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier is a medium-sized dog and one of the oldest breeds of terrier. This handsome bearded dog is active and adaptable, suitable for life both in the country and in the city.

Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell is a small and spirited domesticated dog of the terrier family. Compact, muscular and very energetic, Jack Russells are known as the small dog with the big attitude.

Miniature Bull Terrier

The Miniature Bull Terrier is a small and stocky but very strong little dog. Selectively bred from smaller examples of the full-sized Bull Terrier, the Miniature version is almost identical in its appearance and its temperament.

Miniature Fox Terrier

The Miniature Fox Terrier, also known as the Mini Foxie and Toy Fox Terrier, is a small sized dog that was originally bred for hunting game and vermin.

Pitbull Terrier

The Pit Bull Terrier is a strong, loyal and energetic medium-sized domesticated dog with short hair and a stout, muscular profile.

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    Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance has been awarded ratings of 4.5 out of 5 on independent consumer ratings site, Product Review, for our  Ultimate Care, Peace of Mind and Accident Plus plans, based on 2,436 customer reviews (as at 14/06/2022). We are very proud to be one of Australia’s most trusted pet insurance companies, and to have been chosen as Product Review’s Pet Insurance Award Winner for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and again for 2022!

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