About the Terrier Dog Breed Group

Originating in Britain, most of the world's terrier breeds evolved from various hound breeds. These breeds were developed to fearlessly go to ground after burrowing animals on their home territory such as rabbits, rats, badgers and foxes. These breeds became popular in urban and industrial areas to control the vermin populations and work down in the mines. Various regional terrier varieties were developed throughout the 18th and 19th centuries and continued to be refined and enhanced to include both long and short legged breeds, as well as terriers that would bait large animals. Terriers have a fiery, tenacious and independent spirit. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and coat colors.