Terriers Are The Most Popular Breed For Older Kids

Topic: Most Popular Breeds for Children

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As a group the terrier breeds are some of the most popular dogs worldwide. It is hard to imagine a more lively, intelligent and somewhat headstrong group of dogs than the terriers. They also have a uniquely outgoing view on life, a high level of energy and a natural love of being with people that makes them outstanding dogs for kids and families.

Terriers come in a variety of sizes from the very small toy breeds like the Manchester Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier through the smaller sized Cairn and Glen of Imaal Terrier to the bigger sizes such as the Bedlington Terrier, Sealyham Terrier and the large Airedale Terrier. Besides just this huge range is size, terriers also vary in coat type from the very short haired Bull Terrier and Jack Russell through to the wiry, longer haired Skye Terrier, the Scottish Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier.

Virtually all terriers all share the same devotion to their family and a fierce protectiveness that really sets these types of dogs apart. Owners often consider terriers of any size to be very large dogs in very small bodies, meaning that they tend to be rather aggressive and protective. Most terriers, when socialized, are excellent companion dogs and will tolerate other animals and dogs without problem, however when not socialized and trained they can be a handful.

Early Training And Socialization

Unless you are an experienced dog owner that has previously trained and worked with terriers it is highly recommended that the terrier puppy be enrolled in a puppy obedience class close to the 12 week of age mark. This will help both with socialization as well as starting off with the dog understanding that he or she is not the leader in the household. Older children may well be able to work with these puppies in training sessions but terriers may not respond well to younger children that are a but unsure of themselves. The terrier, if allowed to ignore the younger children, will quickly learn this habit.

Terriers as a group are incredibly smart dogs and often learn what they are interested in learning in one training session. They can become bored if asked to do the same trick in a repetitive fashion so parents will have to work with kids so they understand how to correctly work with these dogs without the dog becoming bored with the routine. Well trained terriers are amazing at what they can do and the tricks they can master.

Early socialization with an adult is important for both the kids and the dogs. Since terriers are typically rather dog aggressive, especially males, working with socialization from an early age is essential if the child wants to be able to take the dog out of the yard with them or have other friends with dogs over. Once socialized terriers seem to adapt well to other dogs however they may not be willing to share their toys, water dishes or other things they consider theirs. Kids may need to learn how to put up these other items if other dogs are around to prevent potential problems and issues.

Grooming

Even the longer haired terriers, excluding the toy Yorkshire Terrier, have the typically rather wiry, coarse terrier coat. Some breeds of terriers, especially the very short coated breeds need little in the way of grooming but the longer haired breed will require stripping or clipping and trimming. Stripping is unique to the terrier breeds and includes actually plucking or stripping the longer, dead hair from the coat. This is done by hand, usually by a groomer, and keeps the coat shaped and healthy looking. Most owners that don't show their terrier opt for the simpler option of clipping the coat, however this can seriously damage some breed's coats and it may take months for the coat to look correct again.

It is important to only work with a groomer that is familiar with working with your particular type of terrier. Some breeds, such as the Kerry Blue Terrier, are prone to ingrown hairs that need to be plucked from the coat to prevent irritations. Clipping the different show clips is also important as not all breed standards allow all clips. Generally for family pets this isn't a big issue, however if children what to compete with the dog it may well be.

Most terrier breeds have a slightly oily coat that should not be bathed more often than necessary. Since they do have a slight doggy odor, dry shampoo can be used to easily remove debris, dirt and residue form the coat, eliminating any odor that may be present. Most terriers are also naturally very clean and will spend considerable time in self grooming activities throughout the day.

Activity Level

Despite most terriers smaller size they are an energetic group as a whole. They love to run and play and are great at fetching and playing with children. Terriers tend to be good at self-exercising in the house but are also prone to getting into things in the house if they are bored or left alone for too long. They tend to love to play with toys and often find the best toys to play with are those that the kids routinely use.

Most terriers all always up for a walk or a trip outside with the family. They make good traveling companions and are ideal small to medium sized dogs for a family that loves hiking, camping and lots of outdoor activities. The water resistant coat of the terrier also makes it a good outdoor dog during the day and a practical companion for children.

Terriers are natural chasers and as such need to be either on a leash or in a fenced yard. They will run with children all day if they have the opportunity and are spunky and fearless enough to go anywhere that children may decide to travel. They really are a terrific group to match with active older children that are willing to work with the dog and understand the unique personality of the terrier breeds.

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