• Characteristics of the Terrier
• Types of Terrier dogs
• Morphology of the Terrier
• Terrier Psychology
• Terrier care

Dog breed Terrier, characteristics 

The name “terrier” derives from the Latin “terra”, and is the term shared by a group of dog breeds that have common origins but often very different physical characteristics.

They are indicated in this way because they are born to be used as hunters of small animals that hide underground or in burrows such as mice, foxes, rabbits.

Most of the terriers come from the United Kingdom, although the specialization has spread and diversified all over the world. 

In some countries certain terriers have been used for fighting: real dog races, such as the Bull Terrier ancestors of the current Pitbull .

Types of Terrier dogs

Nowadays Terriers are essentially companion or guard dogs , and four main types have been indicated  according to the classification of the International Dog Federation :

• Large and Medium-sized Terriers : they are dogs that are not overly large, reaching a maximum of 60 cm at the withers. This group of terrier dogs can be chosen as hunting, working, rescue, guard dogs. Among the best known are the Airedale Terrier, Fox Terrier, Irish Terrier, Welsh Terrier. 
• Small-sized Terriers: they are very agile and resistant dogs, used in the past to hunt small burrowing animals. These Terriers are very lively and active and need to always keep themselves moving. Among the best known are the Jack Russell, the Scottish Terriers, the Westhighland White Terrier.
• Bull-type terriers : they are Molosser, with origins common to fighting dogs and cattle dogs. They can be intimidating for their musculature, but temperamentally they are very sociable and affectionate dogs. Among the best known are the Bull Terrier, the American Pitbull Terrier.
• Pet terriers : they are small dogs, suitable for being placed in a family with children. Among the best known are the Yorkshire Terrier, the English Toy Terrier Black and Tan.

Common Terrier Morphology

They are generally small dogs , very harmonious and proportionate in shape, with sometimes short legs.

The hair is short and bristly, this protects them in unfavorable environmental conditions. They also shed little hair and are thus suitable for indoor and allergy sufferers. The ears are often turned up and have very sharp hearing.

Common Terrier Psychology

Terriers have a very strong personality , they are attentive, lively, courageous, determined, fast. They bark in a powerful and intense way to signal the presence of strangers or if an unusual circumstance arises.

When they find themselves in tense situations they tend to give vent to their most primitive instincts and if they can dig holes, destroy pots, feel the call of the earth. 

Terrier care

Nutrition is naturally correlated to the specific breed of terrier , but in general for these dogs croquettes are preferable , to be changed from summer to winter, less protein in the hot season, more sustained in the cold period.

Depending on the physical activity, the quantity must also vary naturally and it is important that we always have water available. 
Given the liveliness of these dogs , they can be prone to joint trauma, particularly patella luxation.

These are very resistant and long-lived dogs , which can reach 16 years of age in health, especially if they are smaller in size.