The Terrier Group
Dogs originally bred and used for hunting vermin. 'Terrier' comes from the Latin word Terra, meaning earth. Terriers also tend to be smaller than the average dog, which is appealing to people with families and smaller living quarters. Developed specially to go to ground and burrow in the earth to chase and catch vermin like rats, foxes, badgers, weasels, and otters, the Terrier was selectively bred for centuries to be a determined and tenacious dog. Terriers are also more difficult to train than the average dog, and aren't normally recommended for first-time dog owners.
Some of the Terriers have distinctive double coats, consisting of soft undercoats and wiry jackets that need special grooming. Many are plucked or stripped by hand, which is a time-consuming process that gives them a unique appearance. |
