December 29, 2011
Posted in Pet Supplies, Pet Training

The "terrier" classification includes a wide range of dogs, from bull terriers to Yorkshire terriers. But even though they may look extremely different, these pooches are grouped together for a reason. All terriers are known for their fun-loving personalities, loyalty and their need for consistent training.

There are four informal groups within the "terrier" name: the working terrier, the toy terrier, the bull terrier and the companion terrier. Although all terriers make great companions, the "companion terrier" group is comprised of dogs that generally are no longer used for the purpose they were originally bred for. Working terriers such as Jack Russells are still used to track prey, while the toy terriers are "bred-down" versions of larger terriers. Bull terriers are descendants from fighting dogs.

Terriers are generally friendly when it comes to people, but slightly hostile when they meet other animals and dogs. Most people associate this tendency with American Staffordshire terriers and pit bull terriers, but Yorkshire terriers, or "Yorkshire terrors" can also develop a highly protective attitude over their owners. Scottish terriers have the same issues, since they were originally bred to fight badgers. In addition to being protective, they may be less than polite to smaller animals, which they may see as prey. However, with all of these terriers, as long as the dog is properly socialized as a puppy, it can live happily and peacefully with all types of people and animals, the news source reports.

Smaller, hunting varieties like Cairn terriers need regular grooming. Owners will need to brush them several times a week using tools like the Resco Pro-Series Combo Brush and will need to get them trimmed. Others, like the Boston terrier, need little to no grooming. However, all of these pooches can benefit from regular baths with oatmeal shampoo for dogs.

These active pooches also need plenty of exercise – mentally and physically. Because they are smart and are best behaved when they have some type of "job" to do, toys like the Buster Food Cube filled with pet food may provide the perfect challenge. Getting toys like the Wing-A-Ball or Durable 10-Inch Football Dog Toy will be helpful when you exercise it each day. Although long romps through the forest are not necessary with terriers like they may be with sporting breeds like retrievers, these pooches definitely need long walks through the neighborhood. 

Related posts:

1. English bulldogs make great family pets
2. Kansas wants to make Toto breed official state dog
3. Look at traits, not breeds when choosing dog for kids
4. Puzzle toys can make your pooch healthy, happy
5. Is a Bernie the dog for you?